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iPad location services stopped working

Location services seem to have suddenly stopped working on my iPad 8th gen running iPadOS 16.3.1 (20D67) - wifi only. Think it probably happened a couple of days ago and hadn’t noticed until now. So for example I get a “location could not be determined” message in google maps when I try to find my own position, and just a spinning symbol doing the same thing in Apple Maps. And in date & time settings, it can’t determine my time zone.


As far as I can see my settings have not changed, so in privacy & security, location services are on, and most of my apps are set to use location services “while using”. I have tried rebooting, tried connecting to other networks for what it’s worth. Find my IPad is on, but doesn’t work any more.


Can anyone suggest what’s gone wrong, anything else I can check?


Many thanks

iPad

Posted on Oct 29, 2024 2:14 PM

Reply
3 replies

Oct 30, 2024 4:12 AM in response to Malcburt

If your iPad has iPadOS 16.3.1 installed, as stated, you might be well advised to update your iPad to the current version:


iPad5, iPad Pro (9.7"/12.9" 1st generation) - iPadOS 16.7.10

iPad6, iPad Pro (10.5"/12.9" 2nd generation) - iPadOS 17.7.1


Newer iPad models are all able to be updated to the current version - iPadOS 18.1 (17.7.1 optional)

  • iPad Pro 13" (M4)
  • iPad Pro 12.9" (3rd generation and later)
  • iPad Pro 11" (1st generation and later + M4)
  • iPad Air (3rd generation and later + M2)
  • iPad (7th generation and later)
  • iPad mini (5th generation and later)


These support pages outline both the available methods by which the update can be performed - and troubleshooting should you experience difficulties:

Update your iPhone, iPad or iPod touch – Apple Support

If you can't update or restore your iPhone, iPad or iPod touch – Apple Support

If your iPhone, iPad or iPod touch won’t update - Apple Support

iOS update and restore errors – Apple Support


Be aware that while an iPad may be capable of update, in some circumstances you may need to use a computer to perform the update*. To do so, you will need access to either a Windows PC (with iTunes for Windows installed - or the more recent Apple Devices App) or a Mac (with iTunes or Finder - as appropriate for the installed version of MacOS). Ensure that your installed version of iTunes has been updated to the most recent version; the essential device drivers are included.

Download and use iTunes for Windows – Apple Support

Update to the latest version of iTunes – Apple Support

Update software on iPhone, iPad or iPod touch in iTunes on PC - Apple Support

Update your iPhone, iPad, or iPod touch with the Finder - Apple Support


Apple Devices App (Windows PC):

https://apps.microsoft.com/detail/9np83lwlpz9k?hl=en-ms&gl=MS


(*) If you don’t have access to a suitable computer of your own, that of a helpful friend or family member will suffice. Alternatively, the technicians at the Genius Bar of your local Apple Store or Apple Authorised Service Provider (AASP) will be delighted to assist.

Genius Bar Reservation and Apple Support Options - Apple



If you have a beta profile installed, ensure this has been removed from your iPad - as, otherwise, installation of production software updates may be inhibited. This support page provides the necessary information to remove the beta from your iPad:

How to uninstall iOS beta software - Apple Support


You should note that for your iPad to install an available update, its battery must be charged to at least 50% capacity - and/or be connected to its Power Adapter. Similarly, the iPad can only be updated over a standard WiFi connection - or be updated by a PC or Mac using iTunes or Finder - over a USB connection.



Otherwise, If you have a VPN App or profiles installed, or a security/AV/firewall App such as Norton, these may be interfering with your network connection. If applicable, the resolution is usually simple; you may need to temporarily disable or remove the Security App and/or VPN.


If this resolves your issue, the VPN and/or security App can be reinstated after the connectivity problem has been resolved.


iPad location services stopped working

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