location settings Archives

AppWizard

December 18, 2025

Android 16 QPR3 will tell you if apps use your location

The upcoming Android 16 update will enhance user privacy by introducing a feature that provides transparency regarding location tracking by apps. Currently in beta as part of the Android 16 QPR3, it is expected to roll out early next year. A new blue dot with a map icon will appear next to the battery meter when an app is actively tracking the user's location. Users can tap on the dot in the notifications view to identify which app is monitoring their location and can choose to close the app or adjust location settings. This feature builds on a previous privacy indicator with a green dot for camera or microphone access. Currently, it is exclusive to Pixel devices in beta, with plans to extend it to other Android smartphones in the future.

AppWizard

November 24, 2025

Looks like OnePlus phones and smartwatches are experiencing some bad weather

Many OnePlus smartphone and smartwatch users are experiencing issues with the native weather application, which is displaying outdated or no weather data. Reports indicate that this problem affects a range of devices, including the OnePlus 15 and OnePlus 13. Some users in Europe and India have noted that their weather app is still functioning, suggesting the issue may be device or region-specific. The problems may be linked to Oxygen OS 16, but users on older versions (Oxygen OS 15 and 14) are also facing similar issues. Additionally, OnePlus Watch 3 users are encountering errors like "location not found" and "network error." Despite attempts to resolve the issues through various troubleshooting methods, users have had no success. The built-in weather app is critical for many users, and the ongoing issues are likely to prompt a software update or server fix from OnePlus.

AppWizard

August 11, 2025

Google Wallet now wants your location before it’ll show receipts

Google Wallet now requires users to enable the “Precise location” setting on Android devices to access detailed maps and addresses on payment receipts, a feature that was previously available by default. This change, implemented in late July, prompts users to activate location access when viewing receipts that lack map features. Enabling location permissions will only affect new transactions and will not retroactively update past receipts.

AppWizard

August 10, 2025

Google Wallet now requires location permission for ‘detailed receipts’ with maps

Users of the Google Wallet app on Android are now required to grant location permissions to access detailed receipts that include merchant addresses and maps. This change, implemented in late July or early August, means that recent transactions only show the cost, date, statement, and transaction ID, without the map feature. A prompt encourages users to enable location settings to regain access to detailed receipts. To restore the map functionality, users must enable "Precise location" permission through the app, but this does not apply retroactively to past transactions.

AppWizard

October 24, 2024

Call of Duty: Black Ops 6 – How to Play Early With the New Zealand Method | Xbox, PlayStation, PC – Gameranx

Black Ops 6 is set to launch on consoles at midnight local time in New Zealand on October 25, which is 7 AM ET on October 24 for Eastern Time Zone players. PC gamers will have access starting at 6 PM New Zealand time on October 25, or 1 AM ET. Players can use the "New Zealand method" to gain early access by changing their virtual location to New Zealand. For Xbox users, the steps include logging into the Activision website, editing the address to New Zealand, changing the console's location settings to New Zealand, and restarting the console. PlayStation users must adjust their Activision account's address to New Zealand, as there are no region settings on the console itself. For PC users, the method is not applicable through Battle.net or Steam, but they can change their location to New Zealand via the Microsoft Store by following similar steps as Xbox users.

Winsage

August 31, 2024

Don’t use your Windows PC without using these security settings

Windows operating systems are vulnerable to malware due to their widespread use. To enhance security on a Microsoft PC, users can make adjustments without additional software. Key security settings for Windows 11 include: 1. Enable virus protection: Access the Windows Security app to review and schedule virus scans. 2. Secure your account: Use Windows Hello for facial or fingerprint recognition and enable Dynamic lock. 3. Fire up the firewall: Ensure the firewall is activated for all network types and manage app permissions. 4. Apps and browsers: Activate all toggles under Reputation-based protection and confirm settings in Exploit protection. 5. Secure boot and drive encryption: Enable Secure boot and consider BitLocker for drive encryption. 6. Check permissions: Review and adjust data access permissions in the Privacy & security settings. 7. Find my device: Enable this feature to locate a lost device and remotely lock it. 8. Update your PC: Regularly check for and install updates to maintain security. 9. Privacy protection: Use third-party applications to limit data collection and enhance privacy. These measures can significantly improve the security and privacy of a Windows PC.

Winsage

July 1, 2024

Latest Windows 11 update resumes rollout as Microsoft deals with nasty reboot bug – but some unlucky users have found their taskbar is now broken

Windows 11 has been experiencing various issues in the first half of 2024, including increased advertising, instability problems, bugs related to location settings, and distorted videos in web browsers.

Winsage

June 24, 2024

Understanding Your Location is Currently in Use on Windows 11

Windows 11 has a location service feature that uses information like IP address, Wi-Fi access points, and GPS to calculate your geographic location for apps. When you see a notification that your location is in use, it means apps are using your location information. You can turn off location services in Windows 11 and adjust settings for specific apps.

AppWizard

June 4, 2024

Ask Jerry: Making sense of Android’s Location Settings

Emergency Location Service for Android devices ensures that emergency services can locate you when needed. It can be toggled on or off in the settings and will use Google Location Accuracy, Wi-Fi scanning, and Bluetooth scanning to provide a more precise location when calling or texting an emergency number. Trusted third parties receive the location data and forward it to emergency services. It is recommended to leave Emergency Location Service turned on in case of an emergency.