How To Change Your Location On Android Devices (2024)

Ever felt the need to virtually shift your location on your Android device? Whether it’s for accessing geo-restricted content or faking your GPS for fun, changing your location is easier than you might think. We’re about to unpack the steps to tweak your Android’s geographic coordinates to your liking, all in a few easy steps.

Ways To Change Your Location on Android

While our Android devices are capable of many things, changing your location isn’t as direct as pressing a single button. That said, it’s still possible by utilizing different methods. The two primary ways to do this are through tweaking your device’s location settings and altering your IP address via a virtual private network (VPN).

• Without a VPN: By simply turning on the mock location feature in the developer options of your Android device, you can alter your location. This method typically involves downloading a third-party app to fake GPS coordinates.
• With a VPN: A VPN masks your IP address, effectively disguising your actual location. A VPN gives you an extra layer of security and the ability to access geo-restricted content.

Reasons To Change Your Location Settings on Your Android

• Access geo-restricted content: Some apps or content may only be available in certain regions. By changing your location, you can avoid these restrictions.
• Privacy: By changing your location, it becomes more difficult for online services to track your physical location, thereby increasing your privacy.
• Testing and development: App developers may need to change location settings to test location-based features of their applications.

Reasons To Change Your IP Address on Your Android

• Internet freedom: Changing your IP can bypass regional internet restrictions, allowing unrestricted access to blocked websites and services.
• Security: Using a different IP can help to protect you from hackers and identity thieves who may try to track your online activities.
• Online gaming: Some gamers change their IP address to potentially improve connection speed, reduce lag or join region-specific game servers.

How To Change Your Location on Android Without a VPN

To change your Android device’s location without a VPN, you need to turn on “mock locations” in the built-in developer options. A third-party app is typically used to specify the fake GPS coordinates. Here’s how to do it:

1. Enable Developer Options

Before we begin, you need to find the hidden “Developer Options” on your Android device. To access your developer options, go to Settings > About phone > Software information. Here, find and tap on “Build number” seven times. A message will appear saying, “You are now a developer.”

2. Download a Mock Location App

There are many fake location apps available on the Google Play Store. Install an app of your choosing after checking out its ratings.

3. Enable Mock Locations

Following that, navigate back to the primary Settings menu and find “Developer Options” by scrolling down. Within this menu, look for “Select mock location app” and tap on it. If you haven’t downloaded a mock location app yet, you’ll need to do that in step two first.

4. Select Your Mock Location App

After installing your chosen app, return to the “Select mock location app” option in the Developer Options menu. Tap on it and choose the app you’ve just installed.

5. Set Your Desired Location

Open the mock location app. Here, you’ll be able to manually set your location by dropping a pin on a map or typing in specific GPS coordinates. Select the location you prefer and then click on the “Start” or “Play” button.

Important note: Remember that this method could cause some apps to behave unpredictably, and some services might not allow access when they detect a mock location. You could even get your account banned using a fake GPS app in certain apps, such as Pokémon Go. So, use it wisely.

How To Change Your Location on Android With a VPN

Changing your Android location is simple with a VPN. A VPN masks your IP address and routes your internet connection through servers in different locations, effectively making it seem like you are browsing from somewhere else. With this, you can access geo-restricted content, beef up your online security and even enhance your gaming experience.

Here’s how to get started:

1. Choose a VPN Service

Some popular VPN choices include NordVPN, Proton, TunnelBear and CyberGhost. Consider the speed, security, user-friendliness and server count when picking a VPN.

2. Download and Install the VPN App

Once you’ve made your VPN service selection, head over to the Google Play Store and download the corresponding app. Once downloaded, install the app on your device.

3. Set Up and Connect to the VPN

Set up the VPN app by following the instructions on-screen. This usually involves creating an account and selecting a subscription plan. Once your account is set up, sign in to the VPN app.

4. Choose a Server Location

Inside the VPN app, a list of servers in various countries or regions is displayed. Choose a server in the location you want to appear from. After selecting a server, connect to it.

5. Verify Your New IP Address

Once connected, you can check if your location has been changed successfully. Visit an IP checker website such as “What Is My IP Address” or “IP Location” to confirm your new location.

You’ve successfully changed your location on your Android device using a VPN. Always remember to disconnect from the VPN when you’re done to save your device’s battery life and maintain optimal performance.

Understanding How GPS Works on Android

A global positioning system (GPS) is a satellite-based navigation system used to determine a device’s current location on Earth. Android devices come equipped with GPS receivers that interact with satellites orbiting Earth. Once the device locks onto at least four satellites, it can triangulate its position by calculating the time it takes for signals to travel from each satellite to the device. This process, known as trilateration, enables the precise determination of geographical coordinates. By understanding this, one can see why changing location settings can effectively trick this system into believing the device is somewhere it isn’t.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

• GPS not updating correctly: Ensure your device’s location services are turned on and set to high accuracy mode. If you’re using a mock location app, make sure you’ve selected it in your developer options.
• VPN connection failures: Check your internet connection. If it’s stable, try switching to another server or restarting your device. If issues persist, contact your VPN provider’s customer support.
• Apps detecting mock location: Some apps are designed to detect and block mock locations. If an app stops working after enabling a mock location, you might have to disable it for that app to function properly.
• Battery draining fast: Both VPNs and mock location apps can consume more power. If you notice rapid battery drain, consider disconnecting from the VPN or disabling the mock location when not in use.

Understanding the Risks and Limitations

While changing your location on Android can be useful, it’s important to understand the potential risks and limitations. Using a VPN or enabling mock locations may violate the terms of service of certain apps or websites, potentially resulting in a temporary or permanent ban. Your device might not perform as efficiently due to increased battery drain and slower speeds.

Also, some services are designed to detect and resist location spoofing techniques, including advanced IP tracking and GPS spoofing detection. In these cases, changing your location may not work as expected.

Last, changing your location can impact apps that rely on accurate location data. This includes maps, weather apps and other location-dependent services, which could present inaccurate information when location settings are altered. Always consider these factors before deciding to change your location on your Android device.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)