The “Location Unavailable” error in Android Device Manager (now known as Find My Device) is a common issue many users encounter while trying to locate their phone.
Whether you’re attempting to track a lost device, check your phone’s location, or ensure its security, seeing this error can be frustrating.
This guide will explain why this problem occurs and provide detailed steps to troubleshoot and resolve it.
What Is Android Device Manager?
Android Device Manager, now called Find My Device, is a Google service that helps users:
- Locate their Android devices via GPS.
- Securely lock or erase data on a lost device.
- Play a sound to help locate the device nearby.
The service works seamlessly with an active internet connection and GPS. However, when the “Location Unavailable” error appears, your device’s location cannot be determined due to one or more underlying issues.
Why Does the “Location Unavailable” Error Occur?
Several factors can cause this error.
Here are the most common ones:
- Inactive Internet Connection: A weak or absent internet connection prevents the device from communicating with Google servers.
- GPS Turned Off: The device’s GPS feature might be disabled, making it impossible to track.
- Obstructed Signal: The device may be in a location with poor GPS or network coverage, such as inside buildings, forests, or remote areas.
- Battery Saver Mode: Battery-saving features can restrict location services.
- Outdated Google Play Services: An outdated version of Google Play Services may disrupt the location feature.
- Disabled Location Permissions: If location sharing is turned off, Android Device Manager cannot access your phone’s GPS data.
- Account Issues: A mismatch in logged-in Google accounts or account syncing issues can also cause the error.
How to Fix the “Location Unavailable” Error
Follow these troubleshooting steps to resolve the issue:
- Ensure Active Internet Connection
An active internet connection is critical for Android Device Manager to function.
Steps to Check Internet Connection:
- Connect to a reliable Wi-Fi network or ensure mobile data is enabled.
- Open a web browser and load a webpage to test connectivity.
- If the connection is weak, move closer to the Wi-Fi router or switch to a stronger mobile network.
Pro Tip: If you’re in an area with poor network coverage, try toggling Airplane Mode on and off to refresh the connection.
2. Turn On GPS
Ensure that the GPS (Location Services) on your Android device is enabled.
Steps to Enable GPS:
- Go to Settings > Location.
- Toggle the Location switch to On.
- Set the mode to High Accuracy for the best results.
(Path: Settings > Location > Mode > High Accuracy)
Example: High Accuracy mode uses GPS, Wi-Fi, and mobile networks to pinpoint your location.
3. Check Google Account Settings
Ensure you are logged into the correct Google account associated with the device.
Steps to Verify Account:
- Open Settings > Accounts > Google.
- Confirm that the account matches the one used in Android Device Manager.
- If needed, log out and log back into your Google account.
4. Update Google Play Services
Google Play Services plays a vital role in location tracking. An outdated version may cause errors.
Steps to Update Google Play Services:
- Go to Settings > Apps.
- Find and select Google Play Services.
- Tap Update if an update is available.
- Clear the cache for Google Play Services:
Go to Settings > Apps > Google Play Services > Storage > Clear Cache.
5. Disable Battery Saver Mode
Battery Saver Mode restricts background processes, including location services.
Steps to Turn Off Battery Saver:
- Go to Settings > Battery.
- Toggle off Battery Saver.
Exclude Android Device Manager from battery optimization (if supported):
Go to Settings > Battery > Battery Optimization and exclude Find My Device.
6. Reboot Your Device
A simple restart can resolve minor glitches causing the error.
Steps to Restart:
- Press and hold the Power button.
- Select Restart.
After rebooting, open the Android Device Manager app and check if the issue persists.
7. Enable Location Sharing
Ensure that location sharing is enabled for Android Device Manager.
Steps to Enable Location Sharing:
- Go to Settings > Location > Google Location Sharing.
- Allow Find My Device to access your location.
Pro Tip: Enable the “Allow all the time” option for consistent tracking.
8. Move to an Open Area
If your device is in a location with poor GPS coverage (e.g., inside a building or underground), move it to an open area to improve signal reception.
9. Toggle Airplane Mode
Toggling Airplane Mode can refresh both the network and GPS connections.
Steps to Toggle Airplane Mode:
- Swipe down to access the Quick Settings menu.
- Enable Airplane Mode.
- Wait for 10 seconds and disable it.
10. Factory Reset as a Last Resort
If none of the above methods work, a factory reset may resolve the issue. However, this should be a last resort as it will erase all data on the device.
Steps to Factory Reset:
- Go to Settings > System > Reset Options.
- Select Erase All Data (Factory Reset).
- Confirm the reset.
Important: Backup your data before performing a factory reset.
Preventing the “Location Unavailable” Error
- Keep your device updated with the latest software and Google Play Services version.
- Regularly check your internet connection and enable GPS when needed.
- Avoid enabling battery-saving features that restrict location services.
- Always log into your device with the correct Google account.
- Periodically test the functionality of Android Device Manager to ensure it’s working properly.
FAQs
- Why does Android Device Manager show “Location Unavailable”?
This happens when your device cannot establish a GPS connection, lacks internet access, or has disabled location permissions.
2. Can Android Device Manager locate my phone if it’s turned off?
No, the service requires the device to be powered on and connected to the internet.
3. What should I do if my GPS signal is weak?
Move to an open area with fewer obstructions, like a park or open field, to improve GPS signal reception.
4. Will clearing the cache for Google Play Services delete my data?
No, clearing the cache only removes temporary files and will not delete personal data or app settings.
5. How can I check if location sharing is enabled for Android Device Manager?
Go to Settings > Location > Google Location Sharing and ensure the toggle for Find My Device is turned on.
6. Does Airplane Mode affect GPS functionality?
Yes, enabling Airplane Mode disables GPS and network connections. Toggling it off can refresh the connections.
7. Can outdated Google Play Services cause the error?
Yes, an outdated version of Google Play Services can disrupt location functionality. Update it to the latest version.
8. Is it necessary to enable High Accuracy mode?
While not mandatory, High Accuracy mode improves location accuracy by combining GPS, Wi-Fi, and mobile networks.
9. Can I locate my device without an internet connection?
No, internet access is required to send location data to Android Device Manager.
10. Will a factory reset fix the “Location Unavailable” error?
A factory reset can resolve the issue if it’s caused by deep system conflicts. However, use it as a last resort and back up your data first.
11. Does Android Device Manager work without Wi-Fi or mobile data?
No, Android Device Manager requires an active internet connection (via Wi-Fi or mobile data) to transmit location data to Google servers.
12. What should I do if the “Location Unavailable” error occurs intermittently?
If the error appears intermittently:
- Ensure your internet connection is stable.
- Keep GPS enabled at all times.
- Restart your device or toggle Airplane Mode when the issue arises.
13. Can weather conditions affect GPS accuracy?
Yes, extreme weather conditions like heavy rain, snow, or storms can interfere with GPS signals, making it harder for Android Device Manager to locate your device.
14. How does High Accuracy mode improve location tracking?
High Accuracy mode uses a combination of GPS, Wi-Fi, and mobile networks to provide precise location data. It’s the most reliable setting for accurate tracking.
15. Can VPNs affect Android Device Manager’s functionality?
Yes, VPNs can sometimes interfere with location data by masking your IP address, which may cause the “Location Unavailable” error. Temporarily disable your VPN and try again.
16. What happens if location permissions are disabled for Find My Device?
If location permissions are disabled, Android Device Manager won’t be able to access your GPS data, resulting in the “Location Unavailable” error. Ensure permissions are enabled in Settings > Location.
17. Can battery-saving apps cause the “Location Unavailable” error?
Yes, battery-saving apps can restrict GPS functionality and background processes, leading to this error. Exclude Android Device Manager from battery optimization settings.
18. Is it possible to locate my device if the GPS is turned off?
No, GPS needs to be enabled for precise location tracking. Without it, Android Device Manager can only provide an approximate location using Wi-Fi or mobile data.
19. What should I do if the error persists despite trying all solutions?
If the error persists:
- Check for system updates and install the latest version.
- Perform a factory reset after backing up your data.
- Contact your device manufacturer or Google Support for assistance.
20. Can Android Device Manager locate multiple devices under the same Google account?
Yes, Android Device Manager can track all devices linked to the same Google account, provided each device has location and internet services enabled.
21. How do I check if my device is connected to Android Device Manager?
- Open Find My Device on another device or visit Google Find My Device.
- Log in with the same Google account linked to the device.
- Ensure your device appears in the list and shows as “online.”
22. Does enabling Airplane Mode fix the error permanently?
No, toggling Airplane Mode is a temporary solution that refreshes network and GPS connections. It does not address the root cause of the issue.
23. Can Android Device Manager locate a phone with a dead battery?
No, Android Device Manager cannot track a phone that is powered off or has a dead battery. Consider enabling features like Last Known Location for better tracking.
24. Why does the location show as “Last seen” instead of the current location?
This happens when the device is offline or has GPS turned off. The location shown is the last recorded position before the device lost connectivity.
25. How can I test if Android Device Manager is working properly?
- Log in to Google Find My Device.
- Ensure your device appears as online.
- Use features like “Play Sound” or “Locate Device” to verify functionality.
26. Can outdated Android versions cause the “Location Unavailable” error?
Yes, older Android versions may have bugs or compatibility issues with Find My Device. Keep your phone updated to the latest Android version for optimal performance.
27. How does a SIM card affect Android Device Manager?
A SIM card provides mobile network access, which is necessary for internet connectivity if Wi-Fi isn’t available. Without a SIM card, tracking is limited to Wi-Fi coverage.
28. Can I use a third-party app to locate my device if Android Device Manager fails?
Yes, apps like Life360, Prey Anti Theft, or Cerberus can be used as alternatives to Android Device Manager for locating your device.
29. Why is the location shown on the map inaccurate?
Inaccuracy may occur due to:
- Weak GPS signals.
- Limited data from Wi-Fi or mobile networks.
- Interference from surrounding structures or environmental conditions.
30. How can I improve GPS accuracy on my device?
- Enable High Accuracy mode in location settings.
- Update your device’s GPS software.
- Move to an open area to minimize signal interference.
31. Can factory resetting my device fix recurring location errors?
Yes, a factory reset can resolve persistent software-related issues, including location errors. However, it should be used as a last resort.
32. What permissions are required for Find My Device to work?
Find My Device requires:
- Location access (GPS).
- Internet connectivity (Wi-Fi or mobile data).
- Access to the linked Google account.
33. Can I still locate my phone if it’s on silent mode?
Yes, you can use the “Play Sound” feature in Android Device Manager to ring the device, even if it’s on silent.
34. Does Find My Device work internationally?
Yes, Find My Device works internationally as long as the phone has internet connectivity and GPS enabled. Location accuracy may vary based on local network conditions.
35. What should I do if my device shows “offline” in Android Device Manager?
- Check the device’s internet connection.
- Ensure the device is powered on.
- Verify that location services are enabled.
- Restart the device and try again.
36. Can I remotely enable GPS on my phone using Find My Device?
No, you cannot remotely enable GPS. The device’s location services must already be turned on for tracking to work.
37. Why does Android Device Manager take so long to update the location?
Delays in location updates can occur due to:
- Poor GPS or network signals.
- Device settings that restrict background processes.
- High latency in the network connection.
38. Can Find My Device track stolen phones?
Yes, but only if:
- The device is connected to the internet.
- Location services are enabled.
- The thief has not logged out of the Google account or reset the device.
39. How often should I test Find My Device to ensure it’s working?
Testing it once every few weeks is sufficient. This helps confirm that all settings are correct and the service is functional.
40. Does Android Device Manager work for non-Android devices?
No, Android Device Manager is specifically designed for Android devices. For iOS devices, you’ll need to use Find My iPhone.
Conclusion
The “Location Unavailable” error in Android Device Manager can be resolved through simple troubleshooting steps like enabling GPS, ensuring internet connectivity, updating Google Play Services, and rebooting your device.
By following the tips in this guide, you can restore the functionality of Android Device Manager and ensure your device remains trackable.
Regular maintenance, such as keeping your software up to date and enabling location sharing, can prevent this issue from occurring in the future.
