How to share your location on Android

Complete guide with multiple methods and troubleshooting for sharing your location on Android.

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

Quick Answer

Sharing your location on Android can be accomplished through various methods such as using Google Maps, messaging apps, or location-sharing features in social media. This guide provides detailed instructions for each method, ensuring you can share your location easily and effectively.

Easy⏱ 7-10 min read

Prerequisites & Requirements

Before you start sharing your location on Android, ensure you have the following:
  • •An Android device running Android 6.0 (Marshmallow) or later.
  • •Active internet connection (Wi-Fi or mobile data).
  • •Location services enabled on your device.
  • •Permissions granted to the app you intend to use for sharing location.
  • •Optional: Google account for using Google Maps and other Google services.

Method 1: Sharing Location via Google Maps

This method is ideal for sharing your location with friends or family using Google Maps, which is pre-installed on most Android devices.
  • •Step 1: Open the Google Maps app by tapping on its icon.
  • •Step 2: Tap on the blue dot that represents your current location.
  • •Step 3: Select 'Share your location' from the menu that appears.
  • •Step 4: Choose how long you want to share your location (e.g., 'Until you turn this off' or '1 hour').
  • •Step 5: Select the app through which you want to share your location (e.g., WhatsApp, Messenger, etc.).
  • •Step 6: Follow the prompts to send the location link to your chosen contact.
  • •Step 7: To verify, ask the recipient to confirm they received your location.
  • •Step 8: If it doesn't work, check if location services are enabled and permissions are granted.

For Android 11 and later

In Android 11 and later, you may need to allow background location access for apps.
  • •Go to Settings > Privacy > Location.
  • •Select the app you are using (e.g., Google Maps).
  • •Ensure 'Allow all the time' is selected for location access.

For Android 10 and earlier

Older versions may have different permission settings.
  • •Go to Settings > Location > App permissions.
  • •Select the app and ensure 'Allow access to location' is enabled.

Method 2: Sharing Location via Messaging Apps

This method is suitable for quick location sharing through popular messaging apps like WhatsApp or Facebook Messenger.
  • •Step 1: Open the messaging app of your choice (e.g., WhatsApp).
  • •Step 2: Open the chat with the person you want to share your location with.
  • •Step 3: Tap on the attachment icon (usually a paperclip or '+' sign).
  • •Step 4: Select 'Location' from the options presented.
  • •Step 5: Choose 'Share Live Location' or 'Send your current location'.
  • •Step 6: Confirm the duration for sharing live location if prompted.
  • •Step 7: Tap 'Send' to share your location.
  • •Step 8: Verify with the recipient that they received your location.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If you encounter issues while sharing your location, consider the following solutions:
  • •Error: 'Location services are off' - Solution: Go to Settings > Location and toggle it on.
  • •Issue: 'App does not have permission to access location' - Fix: Go to Settings > Apps > [App Name] > Permissions and enable location access.
  • •Problem: 'GPS signal not found' - Workaround: Ensure you are outdoors or near a window for better GPS reception.

Advanced Tips & Shortcuts

Enhance your location sharing experience with these tips:
  • •Keyboard shortcut: N/A - Use voice commands with Google Assistant to share your location.
  • •Command line: N/A - Not applicable for Android devices.
  • •Hidden feature: Use Google Maps' 'Location History' to see where you've been and share that data.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoid these common pitfalls:

Expert Tips

For the best experience, use Google Maps for sharing your location as it integrates well with other services and provides accurate location data.