How to Check if Your Device Has GPS
If you’re using Savvy Navvy or any navigation app, your device needs GPS to show your accurate position. Here’s how to quickly check if your phone, tablet, or laptop supports GPS.
Why GPS matters
GPS allows your device to determine your exact location, even without mobile signal. This is essential for tracking and navigation.
On mobile phones (iPhone & Android)
Most smartphones have built-in GPS.
How to check:
- Open your device Settings
- Go to Privacy & Location Services (iPhone) or Location (Android)
- Make sure Location Services are turned ON
- Open a maps app (Google Maps or Apple Maps)
- Tap the location arrow to see if it finds your position
What to expect:
- If your position updates accurately → your device has GPS
- If it’s slow or inaccurate indoors → this is normal
On tablets (iPad & Android tablets)
This is where it varies.
iPads:
- Wi-Fi only iPads → ❌ No GPS
- Wi-Fi + Cellular iPads → ✅ Have GPS
👉 If your iPad only shows a rough location, it may be using Wi-Fi instead of GPS.
Android tablets:
- Most newer models have GPS, but not all
- Check specs or test using the steps above
On laptops (Mac & Windows)
Most laptops do not have GPS.
What they use instead:
- Wi-Fi positioning
- IP-based location (less accurate)
How to check:
- Open a maps app in your browser
- Allow location access
- See how precise the location is
If it only shows a general area (e.g. city-level), your device likely does not have GPS.
Quick test (works on any device)
The easiest way:
- Open a maps app
- Tap “locate me”
- Move slightly (or go outside)
If the position follows you in real time → GPS is working
👍 Tip for best performance
- Go outside with a clear view of the sky
- Make sure location services are enabled
- Give the device a few seconds to lock onto satellites
Updated on: 10/04/2026
Thank you!