On an iPhone 11, Location Services is in Settings > Privacy & Security > Location Services (on iOS 15 and earlier, Settings > Privacy > Location Services). The switch at the top turns location off for everything. Below it, tap any app to choose Never, Ask Next Time, While Using the App or Always, and turn Precise Location on or off. System Services at the bottom controls Apple’s own uses of location.
Quick Answer
Settings > Privacy & Security > Location Services. Tap an app to set its access.
Steps to Get There
- Open Settings.
- Tap Privacy & Security (or Privacy on older iOS).
- Tap Location Services.
- Use the main switch, or tap an app to change its access.
- Scroll to System Services for features like Significant Locations and location-based suggestions.
Access Options
| Option | Meaning |
|---|---|
| Never | The app can’t use location |
| Ask Next Time | You decide each time the app asks |
| While Using the App | Only when the app is open |
| Always | Even in the background |
| Precise Location off | Approximate area only |
Troubleshooting
- Location Services greyed out: Check Screen Time > Content & Privacy Restrictions.
- Turn it off completely: See turning off location on iPhone.
- Arrow icon in the status bar: See hiding the location status icon.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does turning it off affect Find My?
Yes. Find My needs Location Services to locate your iPhone.
Does location drain the battery?
Apps set to Always can. Use While Using for most apps.
Is there a Control Center shortcut?
No. Location Services is only in Settings.
Summary
- Settings > Privacy & Security.
- Tap Location Services.
- Set each app’s access.
- Check System Services.
Kermit Matthews is a freelance writer based in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania with more than a decade of experience writing technology guides. He has a Bachelor’s and Master’s degree in Computer Science and has spent much of his professional career in IT management.
He specializes in writing content about iPhones, Android devices, Microsoft Office, and many other popular applications and devices.