If you’re using Android devices to access the internet, you may be aware of the feature called “location tracking.” This is a way for your phone to track where you are at all times, and can be used to identify you in ads or other online content. There are a few ways to disable location tracking on Android devices:
- Open the Settings app and select “Location Services.” Under “Location Tracking,” select “Do not track” and then press OK.
- Go to your Google account settings and select “Location Services.” Under “Location Tracking,” select “Do not track” and then press OK.
- If you’re using an iPhone or iPad, open the Settings app and select “Privacy.” Under “Location Tracking,” select “Do not track” and then press OK.
There are a few different ways to turn off sensors on Android. It’s even possible to turn off all the sensors at once. On a smaller scale, you can toggle off the microphone or camera. We’ll be using a similar approach for location access.
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There are two methods you can use to turn off your devices’ access to your location. The quickest method is to use the aptly named “Quick Settings” panel. This is the panel of toggles you see when fully expanding the notification pull-down.
The “Location” toggle may already be in your Quick Settings panel. Simply tap it to turn on or off location access. If you don’t see the toggle, you can easily edit the Quick Settings and re-arrange everything to your liking.
RELATED: How to Tweak and Rearrange Android’s Quick Settings Dropdown
The second method is just slightly less convenient. First, swipe down once or twice from the top of the screen—depending on your phone—to open the notifications and tap the gear icon.
Next, scroll down to “Location.”
Toggle off “Use Location” at the top of the screen.
That’s all there is to it. Go back to the Location settings to turn it on again. Turning this off will prevent apps from seeing your location. You won’t be completely invisible since WiFi and cellular networks can be used to track your location as well. If turning off your location isn’t enough, you can try spoofing your location.
RELATED: How to Spoof Your Location on Android
