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How to Change Your Location on Android Devices

  • 25 November 2024
  • 11 mins read

Table of Content

Table of Contents

Trust me, it’s not tricky to change your location. For someone who knows how to install an application, he or she can change their device location. And there are multiple reasons to change your Android location. 

Some of you have to catch more Pokemons because you are in a dead zone, while others want to access and install region-locked apps. You can follow our systematic, step-by-step guide to change your location and enjoy more freedom with your Android phone. Let’s get started!

How to Change Your Location on Android

Here’s how you can change your location on an Android device, depending on your needs:

1. Turn Off Location Services

Disabling location services prevents apps from accessing your location data. Here’s how to do it: 

  1. Go to Settings > Location.
  2. Toggle off the Use Location option.

2. Try a VPN

A VPN (Virtual Private Network) masks your IP address, making it appear as though you're in a different location. Here's what to do:

  1. Download and install a high-speed VPN on your device from the Play Store.
  2. Login to the VPN app using your new username and password. 
  3. Connect to a country server of your choice (USA, UK, Singapore).
  4. Type and search “What’s My IP” or “What’s My Location” to confirm that your location has changed.

3. Use a Mock Location App (For Advanced Users)

Mock location apps can help you switch your phone location to a different place. This is useful for accessing location-specific features or testing apps. Although we don’t recommend anyone using a mock location app, but if you want to learn how to do it then follow the right way: 

  1. Open Settings and go to About Phone. 
  2. Tap Build Number seven times until you see You are now a developer.
  1. Developer Options will appear in your settings menu.
  2. Go to the Play Store and search for a reliable, fake GPS app. 
  3. Install it after checking reviews and ratings.
  4. Open Settings and go to Developer Options. 
  5. Select mock location app and pick the app you downloaded.
  1. Open the mock location app and pick a location on the map. 
  2. Activate the mock location by following the app's instructions.

This process allows you to simulate a location on your Android device. You should also note that some apps or services may detect and block fake locations depending on their security measures.

Always remember that using such mock location apps may violate the terms of service of certain apps. We don’t recommend anyone using it, but if you do then it’s at your own discretion.

Some Extra Tips for Changing Your Location on Android

To enhance your experience and privacy, consider the following tips:

  • If you don’t need GPS, disable location services entirely by selecting Settings > Location and toggle it off.
  • Public WiFi networks are often insecure. Avoid sensitive activities, like online banking, when connected to them.
  • For better online privacy, use a browser designed to protect your data, like Brave or Firefox.

By combining these tips with mock location apps or a VPN, you can change your location on Android to access region-locked content, protect your private data.

Why Would You Want to Change Your Location on Android?

Here are some simple reasons why this can be useful:

  1. Access Content from Other Countries

Some videos, shows, or apps might not be available in your country due to regional limitations and licensing contracts. But you can virtually change your location with a VPN to get instant access to region-locked apps and streaming platforms, like American Netflix or Hulu. 

  1. Keep Your Location Private

If you don’t want apps or website cookies to track your online activities and IP address, changing your location can give you a helping hand. You can prevent prying eyes, unnecessary online surveillance, and snoopers. 

  1. Use Region-Locked Apps & Websites

Most developers have to check whether or not their apps and websites work in other countries. And changing the location on your phone can help them test app performance and website traffic. 

  1. Unlock More Features in Games

Some mobile games have specific events and juicy rewards based on your actual location. You can access DLC packs and exclusive content or play with MMO gamers from different servers. 

  1. Reduce Targeted Ads 

Advertising agencies use your location and personal data to show you ads and sell their products. You can prevent companies from data collection, stop annoying ads, and reduce pop-ups by changing your location.

How Can I Troubleshoot Common Issues?  

  1. GPS Not Updating Properly
  • Go to Settings > Location.
  • For Android: Look for the Mode or Location method and select High Accuracy.
  • For iPhone: Go to Settings > Privacy > Location Services.
  • Ensure Precise Location is enabled for the app.
  1. VPN Connection Fails
  • Check your internet connection for stability.
  • Try switching to a different VPN server.
  1. Mock Location Not Working
  • Some apps block mock locations for security reasons.
  • Disable the mock location feature for specific apps or check their settings to allow fake locations.
  1. Battery Drain
  • VPNs and mock location apps can drain the battery quickly.
  • Disable them when not needed to conserve power.

Some Important Things to Consider Before Changing Your Location to Another Region  

While changing your location can be useful, it's important to consider the potential risks:

  1. App Restrictions

Some services can detect location spoofing and can block access, limit functionality, or even ban your account permanently.

  1. Device Performance

Using mock location apps can drain your battery and cause your device to slow down or even heat up extensively.

  1. Impact on Location-Based Apps

Some apps like Google Maps or ride sharing services provide incorrect information if your location is altered.nce, and snoopers more visible to others nearby.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

  • Can changing my location on Android affect apps like Google Maps?

    Plus

    Yes, changing your location can cause apps like Google Maps to show inaccurate directions or location data. Switch back to your actual location for accurate results.

  • Plus

    Changing your location is generally legal, but using it to bypass restrictions or violate terms of service for apps or websites may have consequences.

  • Will using a VPN slow down my internet speed?

    Plus

    If you are using a free VPN that doesn’t offer any encryption protocol or solid country servers, you might experience slower internet speed or downtime while playing online games. Whereas, a premium VPN can reduce buffering, ISP throttling, and lower latency.

  • Can I use location-changing methods for gaming without getting banned?

    Plus

    The boring answer is.. it depends on the game's terms of service. Some games may detect location spoofing and could ban accounts for violating official policies.

Wrapping Up!

Changing your location on Android is a great way to unlock new content, keep your data private, and access region-locked platforms. The best way to change location is to use a trusted VPN that gives you more control over your privacy. Just be smart about using these tricks and follow app rules to avoid any future issues.