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Google Maps sometimes asks me to calibrate my compass. Last time it did so, I was in a rush and didn't bother to, and now the compass does seem a bit off. I tried to find a "calibrate compass" setting in Maps, but I couldn't find it.

How can I calibrate the compass on my phone?

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4 Answers 4

Reset to default
9

There is now an official Google answer to this problem:

Open the Google Maps app and then follow these directions:

  1. Tilt your phone forward and back
  2. Move it side to side
  3. And then tilt left and right

You may need to repeat the steps until your compass is calibrated.

Compass calibration graphic

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  • 5
    The way to calibrate has been updated. Now it's a 8-figure pattern lh3.googleusercontent.com/…
    – phuclv
    Commented Sep 21, 2016 at 11:13
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    This answer is outdated, see Siosm's answer.
    – mic
    Commented Aug 29, 2017 at 16:05
  • The 3 steps are fine, the pre-condition can be dropped: the sensors do not need GMaps (or any other specific app) running to work it out :D Besides, some more variants here – including the figure-8 and the 3-axis method.
    – Izzy
    Commented Jun 29, 2021 at 21:00
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It depends on your model of phone. If there is no built-in compass calibration application from the manufacturer, then likely you can calibrate your compass by opening up any application that uses the compass, and moving the device in a certain manner. Here are two types of movements to try:

  • The "figure 8 pattern" easier said than understood. Here's what it looks like YouTube Video of Figure 8 compass calibration.

  • Three axis rotations: Rotate 360° around each of the three axes, so one full rotation with screen facing up, one full rotation "rolling" sideways, one full rotation "pitching" forward.

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    While you and Seth both gave pretty much the same answer, it helped that you linked in a video of what the figure 8 pattern is :-)
    – Nathan Fellman
    Commented Jun 8, 2011 at 16:23
  • I've found out that the "figure 8 pattern" is the best method to recalibrate the compass.
    – dr_
    Commented May 6, 2016 at 21:31
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In the current version of Google Maps, you can calibrate the compass any time you like by tapping the blue dot representing your current location and selecting "Calibrate compass".

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There may be an option in your settings, but easier, just open Google maps, start using the compass and spin your phone in figure 8 pattern. That is all there is to it.

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