Symptoms
- Family member's location shows as outdated or 'not available'
- Location updates only when the app is actively opened
- Works on Wi-Fi but not cellular, or vice versa
- One person's location shares fine while another's doesn't
Likely causes
- CommonLocation permission set to 'While Using' instead of 'Always'Background location sharing typically requires the always-allow permission level.
- CommonBattery optimization restricting the location-sharing app in the backgroundAggressive battery-saving settings can prevent apps from updating location when not actively open.
- PossibleLocation Services turned off entirely on one deviceThe master location toggle being off blocks any location sharing.
- PossiblePoor signal or connectivity preventing location updates from syncingBoth devices need some form of internet connection to sync location data.
- Less commonApp-specific bug or needing an updateLocation-sharing apps occasionally have bugs affecting sync reliability.
What to do
- Check that Location Services is turned on system-wide in Settings.
- For the specific sharing app (Find My, Google Maps, Life360, etc.), set its location permission to 'Always Allow'.
- Check battery optimization settings and exclude the location-sharing app from restrictions.
- Confirm both devices have an active internet connection, either Wi-Fi or cellular data.
- Force close and reopen the sharing app to trigger a fresh location update.
- Restart both phones.
- Update the location-sharing app to its latest version.
- If location still won't update reliably after these steps, try uninstalling and reinstalling the app.
When to call a pro
If location sharing remains unreliable after checking permissions and battery settings, reinstalling the app or contacting its support team is the next step.
Safety
Generally low risk
Generally low risk for a careful person. Stop if anything looks different from what this guide describes.