When you encounter GPS issues with your Samsung Galaxy M15, such as it not working correctly or losing accuracy, it can be frustrating, especially when relying on it for navigation or location based services. Here’s a comprehensive guide to troubleshoot and potentially solve GPS problems on your device.
Fixes for Samsung Galaxy M15 GPS not working
1. Check GPS Settings:
- Enable High Accuracy Mode: Ensure your device’s GPS is set to High Accuracy mode. Go to Settings then Location and toggle it on. This mode uses GPS, Wi-Fi, and mobile networks to estimate your location, which improves accuracy.
- Location Services: Make sure Location Services are activated. Some apps won’t function correctly without access to your location.
2. Update Your Device:
- Software Updates: Outdated software can cause compatibility problems with GPS functionality. Check for any available updates by going to Settings > Software update > Download and install. Installing the latest software version can resolve existing bugs affecting the GPS.
3. Calibrate the GPS:
- Calibrate Compass: Sometimes, the issue might be with the phone’s compass calibration. Use Google Maps or a compass app to recalibrate your device’s compass. Follow the on-screen instructions to move your phone in a specific pattern to recalibrate.
4. Clear Cache and Data for GPS Services:
- Clear Cache: Go to Settings > Apps, find Maps or any other GPS-based app, and clear its cache and data. This step can fix problems related to app data corruption.
- Reset Network Settings: This can solve issues related to connectivity. Go to Settings App > General management > Reset then select Reset network settings. Note that this will revert all network settings, including WiFi passwords.
5. Safe Mode:
- Boot in Safe Mode: Booting your phone in Safe Mode can help identify if third-party apps are causing the GPS issue. In Safe Mode, all third-party apps are disabled. To enter Safe Mode, press and hold the power button, then press and hold the power off option until you see the Safe Mode prompt. If GPS works fine in Safe Mode, a third-party app is likely the culprit. Uninstall recently downloaded apps one at a time and check if the issue resolves.
6. Battery Saver Mode:
- Disable Battery Saver Mode: If Battery Saver Mode is on, it could restrict GPS functionality to save power. Disable it from the quick settings panel or in Settings > Battery.
7. Check for Physical Damage:
- Inspect for Damage: Physical damage to your device can affect its GPS capabilities. If your phone has recently been dropped or exposed to water, it might have damaged the GPS antenna. In such cases, professional repair is necessary.
8. Factory Reset:
- If none of the previous solutions work, consider performing a factory reset. This will delete all data on your device, so back up your data first. Go to Settings App > General management > Reset then select Factory data reset.
9. Seek Professional Help:
If the problem persists after trying all the above steps, it may indicate a hardware issue with the GPS module. In this case, contact Samsung Support or visit an authorized service center for professional assistance.
Conclusion
Troubleshooting GPS issues can be straightforward if you follow these steps methodically. However, if hardware problems are suspected, professional intervention is the best course of action to prevent further damage to your device.
Also read: Samsung Galaxy M15 Unresponsive touch screen? Do this