If you've encountered the "No location found" notification on your iPhone while using the Find My app, you might wonder what it means and how to address it. Rather than signaling that someone has stopped sharing their location, this message typically stems from temporary connectivity or device issues. Let's discuss the reasons behind this error, how to troubleshoot it effectively, and how using a VPN might indirectly contribute to resolving location-based challenges.
What Does "No Location Found" Mean?
The "No location found" error in the Find My app happens when the application is unable to retrieve the device's real-time location. While it might seem alarming at first glance, this error isn't always indicative of someone halting location sharing. Instead, it is often linked to a lost internet connection, weak GPS signals, or other temporary technical glitches. The app essentially has trouble accessing the location details of the device in question.
Common Reasons Behind "No Location Found" Errors
Several factors can cause the Find My app to display "No location found." Below are the most typical causes, along with troubleshooting tips to address them:
1. Connection Issues
The device you're trying to locate—or the one you're using—might be struggling with an unstable GPS connection or disabled services. Poor satellite reception or outdated GPS configurations are common culprits. To fix this, ensure GPS services are turned on and that both devices are in areas with strong network coverage.
2. Internet Connectivity Problems
If either device (yours or the one being tracked) encounters an unreliable internet connection or disconnects entirely, you'll see this error. Find My relies on the network to update real-time locations. Double-check both devices' internet status by opening a website or running a speed test. If you're using a VPN to mask your IP or change regions, verify that it's not interfering with your network stability.
3. Low Battery or Power Issues
If the tracked device has a low battery or is in Low Power Mode, background functions, including location sharing, may be paused. Worse yet, if the device shuts down completely due to a drained battery, it won’t broadcast any location until it's charged and powered back on.
4. Disabled Location Services
Location services must be enabled for Find My to work. If the device being tracked has turned off this feature—either intentionally or unintentionally—real-time updates will cease. You’ll need to confirm in the device settings that location services are enabled.
5. Airplane Mode
If either device has Airplane Mode activated, network connections will disconnect, blocking Find My functionality. While Airplane Mode doesn’t completely disable location tracking, it prevents the app from accessing or sharing updated location details. Double-check and toggle Airplane Mode off if that’s the issue.
6. iOS Bugs or Outdated Software
Running outdated versions of iOS can create software compatibility issues, which sometimes affect apps like Find My. Updating both devices to the latest iOS version ensures smooth functionality and can resolve potential bugs.
How to Resolve the "No Location Found" Error
If you're dealing with this issue, try these practical fixes:
Check Apple's System Status
Apple’s servers occasionally experience temporary downtimes. Visit their System Status page and verify that their location services are operational. If you notice outages, simply wait until Apple restores functionality.
Ensure Internet Access
Ensure both devices are online. Open web browsers or test applications to confirm network connectivity. For added stability, consider enabling a high-speed VPN, which can secure your connection and improve performance when accessing location services in regions with unreliable networks. Falcon VPN offers reliable and fast servers that can improve network stability, helping apps like Find My function without interruptions.
Download Falcon VPN to boost your network connection and improve location accuracy.
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Download the VPN Application
Go to falconlinkvpn.com and click the "Download" button for your platform. -
Install the VPN
Once the download is complete, open the installation file and follow the on-screen instructions to install the VPN. -
Launch FalconLink VPN
After installation, open the application. Choose a server location from the available list. -
Connect and Enjoy Secure Browsing
Click the “Connect” button to establish a secure connection and enjoy anonymous, private browsing.
Disable Airplane Mode
Swipe down to access Quick Settings on your iPhone and ensure Airplane Mode is turned off. Without an active network connection, neither location updates nor real-time tracking will function.
Restart the Find My App or Device
A simple restart can fix software hiccups. Start by closing then reopening the Find My app. If the issue persists, restart your iPhone and, if possible, ask the tracked user to restart their device as well.
Reactivate Location Services
Go to Settings > Privacy > Location Services and verify they’re turned on for both devices. You can also enable the Precise Location setting under Find My to improve accuracy.
Correct Date and Time Settings
Many online services rely on accurate time settings. Adjust settings by navigating to Settings > General > Date & Time and ensuring Set Automatically is enabled.
Update iOS Versions
If your device or the user’s device hasn’t installed the latest software, it might hinder Find My from operating effectively. Regular updates often include bug fixes and improvements critical for smooth operation.
What Role Can a VPN Play?
VPNs can indirectly assist in addressing location-related issues by enhancing the quality of the internet connection, especially when accessing location-sensitive applications in different regions. Selecting servers closer to your actual location can provide a more stable connection, preventing network interruptions. However, avoid overloading the VPN with region changes unrelated to your true location, as this could interfere with Find My’s accuracy.
"No Location Found" vs. "Location Not Available"
Understanding the distinction between these messages can help clarify potential solutions:
"No Location Found" generally points to technical limitations, such as poor internet connection or disabled GPS. The issue is likely temporary and doesn't indicate the user has stopped sharing their location.
"Location Not Available" typically means the user has intentionally stopped sharing their location with you, disabled it in their privacy settings, or logged out of iCloud entirely.
Tips for VPN Users
If you're using a VPN alongside the Find My app, keep these considerations in mind:
Use VPN servers in nearby locations to reduce latency.
Avoid frequently toggling between VPN-enabled and disabled modes, which might disrupt connectivity.
Pick a premium VPN with minimal downtime and good customer support for troubleshooting.
How to prevent the “No location found” error in the future
To avoid encountering the “No location found” error in the future, follow these tips:
Enable location permissions : Always allow apps to access your location when prompted, especially for apps like Find My, which rely on location services.
Keep GPS, Wi-Fi, and cellular data on : Ensure all three are enabled for more accurate location tracking.
Restart your device : Regularly clear your location history by going to "Settings" > "Privacy" > "Location Services" > "System Services" > "Significant Locations" and restart your device to ensure smooth GPS, Wi-Fi, and cellular connectivity.
Check airplane mode : If you face connectivity issues, toggle airplane mode on and off to reset your network connections.
Update software and apps : Always keep your device’s operating system and apps updated to avoid bugs that may cause location issues.
Monitor battery health : Ensure your device has sufficient battery power, as low battery or power-saving mode can affect location accuracy.
Final Thoughts
The "No Location Found" message, while frustrating, is usually caused by temporary technical glitches. By following the solutions listed above, you can quickly resolve connectivity and location-sharing issues. And for VPN users, ensuring a strong connection while using location-reliant apps adds an extra layer of reliability and security.
Stay tech-savvy and enjoy seamless tracking by optimizing your devices and networks for better accuracy!
Albert Ivan, writer by day, popper by night, is the former senior editor at iTop VPN. He Joined Falcon VPN in 2022 and has since written extensively on the topic of tech, digital privacy & security and internet freedom.
