Get around with maps and location

Decide who may know where you are

A map app may need your precise location to guide you. Other apps work with limited access, or only while you use them. You review those permissions in one place.

1. Open Settings.
2. Tap Privacy & Security.
3. Tap Location Services.
4. Tap an app to see or change its permission.

Inside each app you will see the Precise Location option. Leave it on for Maps and turn it off for apps that only need to know roughly where you are.

Prepare the route before you leave

A few minutes of preparation keep you from getting lost or losing directions halfway there.

1. Open Maps.
2. Type the address or the name of the place in the search field.
3. Confirm the exact address and place: similar names may exist in different towns.
4. Tap Plan or Directions, whichever appears.
5. Tap your travel mode: driving, walking, transit or cycling.
6. Tap Steps on the route you prefer to read the directions before leaving. Go starts spoken guidance.
7. Check battery, signal and cellular data.

If you will pass through areas with no signal, download the map of the region beforehand. Offline maps are not available in all countries or regions.

1. In Maps, tap your picture or initials next to the search field.
2. Tap Offline Maps.
3. Tap Add Offline Map.
4. Type the place in the search field or tap Current Location.
5. Adjust the selected area and tap Download.

A downloaded map does not guarantee current traffic or business information. Also carry a separate reference, such as the written address or a meeting point.

When driving, set everything up before you start

Set the route and the audio before driving. Do not handle the phone to change the camera, messages or the map while you drive. If your vehicle supports CarPlay, the feature that shows the iPhone on the vehicle's screen, plug the iPhone into the car's USB port; if the connection is wireless, follow the vehicle's manual and check the permissions.

Navigation can use up battery and heat the iPhone, especially in sunlight. Use a suitable mount, with ventilation and compatible charging. Do not leave the iPhone inside a hot vehicle.

Think before publishing a route

Photos and maps can reveal your home, your routines and other people's places. Check the location in the sharing options and do not automatically publish your real-time position.