How to disable location tracking on iPhone

Complete guide with multiple methods and troubleshooting for disabling location tracking on iPhone.

7-10 min read
Expert Verified
Last Updated: August 2025

Quick Answer

To disable location tracking on your iPhone, navigate to Settings Privacy & Security > Location Services. From there, you can toggle off Location Services entirely or adjust settings for individual apps.

Easy⏱ 7-10 min read

Prerequisites & Requirements

Before you begin disabling location tracking on your iPhone, ensure you meet the following requirements:
  • •An iPhone running iOS 14 or later (check under Settings > General > About for your iOS version).
  • •Access to the device with the correct passcode or biometric authentication.
  • •Understanding of which apps require location access for your needs.

Method 1: Disable Location Services Completely

This method is useful when you want to turn off all location tracking on your device. However, be aware that this will affect all apps that rely on location services.
  • •Step 1: Open the Settings app on your iPhone by tapping the gear icon on your home screen.
  • •Step 2: Scroll down and select 'Privacy & Security'.
  • •Step 3: Tap on 'Location Services'. You will see a toggle at the top of the screen.
  • •Step 4: Toggle the switch to the left to turn off Location Services. A confirmation dialog will appear asking if you want to disable Location Services. Tap 'Turn Off' to confirm.
  • •Step 5: To verify, return to the Location Services menu; the toggle should be gray, indicating it is off.
  • •Step 6: If it doesn't work, restart your iPhone and repeat the steps.

For iOS 15 and later

In iOS 15, the steps remain largely the same, but you will notice a new feature called 'Share My Location'. Ensure this is also turned off if you want to disable location sharing.
  • •Step 1: Follow the same steps as above to reach Location Services.
  • •Step 2: Scroll down to 'Share My Location' and toggle it off.

For iOS 14 and earlier

The interface is slightly different in earlier versions, but the core steps remain the same.
  • •Step 1: Access Settings, then Privacy, and then Location Services.
  • •Step 2: The toggle will still be present; simply switch it off.

Method 2: Disable Location Tracking for Specific Apps

This method allows you to selectively disable location tracking for individual apps while keeping Location Services active for others.
  • •Step 1: Open the Settings app on your iPhone.
  • •Step 2: Navigate to 'Privacy & Security' and select 'Location Services'.
  • •Step 3: You will see a list of apps that have requested location access.
  • •Step 4: Tap on the app for which you want to disable location tracking.
  • •Step 5: Select 'Never' or 'While Using the App' to limit location access. If you choose 'Never', the app will not access your location at all.
  • •Step 6: To verify, return to the app's settings in Location Services; the selection should reflect your choice.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If you encounter issues while trying to disable location tracking, consider the following solutions:
  • •Error: 'Unable to change Location Services' - Solution: Ensure you are not in a managed environment (like a corporate device) that restricts these settings.
  • •Issue: Location services still appear active after turning them off - Fix: Restart your iPhone to refresh the settings.
  • •Problem: Specific app still tracks location - Workaround: Check the app's internal settings; some apps may have their own location settings that override iOS settings.

Advanced Tips & Shortcuts

For users looking to optimize their privacy settings further, consider these advanced tips:
  • •Keyboard shortcut: No specific shortcuts available, but familiarize yourself with the Settings app layout for quicker navigation.
  • •Hidden feature: 'Precise Location' toggle allows you to limit apps to approximate location instead of exact coordinates.
  • •Command line: Not applicable for iOS, but consider using third-party privacy apps for additional control.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoid these common pitfalls:

Expert Tips

To maintain your privacy effectively, regularly review your app permissions and location settings.