Written by Muneeb Rana · Last updated 26 October 2026
Quick answer: Location permissions decide whether a speedometer app can read GPS at all. Grant 'While using the app' and 'Precise' so it can compute speed accurately. Approximate location is too coarse for speed. Background ('Always' or 'All the time') access only matters if you want tracking to continue with the screen off.
TL;DR
- Precise is required for speed.
- While-using covers most needs.
- Background access only for screen-off trips.
- You can change permissions anytime.
- Check the store's data safety section.
Location permissions on Android
Android offers 'Allow only while using the app', 'Ask every time' and 'Don't allow', plus a 'Use precise location' toggle. Background access is a separate, stricter grant. Android documentation explains the levels.
Location permissions on iPhone
iOS offers Never, Ask Next Time, While Using and Always, plus a Precise switch. Apple's Core Location documentation describes accuracy authorisation.
What Speedometer PRO asks for
It needs location to show speed, distance and the map. Google Play's data safety section for the app states no data is shared with third parties and none is collected, and that data is encrypted in transit, as declared by the developer.
Choosing settings
| Goal | Setting |
|---|---|
| See live speed | While using + Precise |
| Track with screen off | Always/All the time (if supported) |
| Maximum privacy | Grant only while using; revoke after |
Privacy tips
Review permissions periodically, read the privacy policy, and remove access for apps you no longer use.
Approximate location breaks speed
Approximate location is accurate to a few kilometres or so on some platforms, and updates rarely. A speedometer needs precise location to work at all.
Background access
Speedometer PRO only needs location while the app is in use.
Checking permissions
Revisit permissions after OS updates, which sometimes reset them.
Least privilege
Grant only what the app needs. For a speedometer that's usually precise location while in use.
Troubleshooting
If speed stays at zero, check that precise location is on and the app is not restricted by battery settings. See improve GPS signal.
Related: Speedometer app features · Privacy policy · How to improve GPS signal · Speedometer app not working? Try these fixes · Speedometer app for Android · Speedometer app for iPhone · GPS speedometer: live speed from your phone's satellites · Speedometer with compass
Get Speedometer PRO on Google Play · Download on the App Store · Set it up before you move; never handle your phone while driving.
Sources
- Location and sensors (Android Developers): developer.android.com (accessed 26 October 2026)
- Location Services on iPhone (Apple Support): support.apple.com (accessed 26 October 2026)
- Speedometer PRO - Data safety on Google Play: play.google.com (accessed 26 October 2026)
- Improve your location's accuracy (Google Maps Help): support.google.com (accessed 26 October 2026)
FAQ
Why does a speedometer app need location?
Speed is calculated from satellite positioning, which the OS only provides to apps with location permission.
Can I use approximate location?
Approximate location is deliberately coarse and will not give usable speed readings.
Do I need 'Always' permission?
Only for tracking while the screen is off or the app is in the background, if the app supports it.
Does Speedometer PRO sell location data?
The Play listing's data safety section says no data is shared or collected, as declared by the developer. See the privacy policy.
How do I revoke permission?
Use the phone's Settings app under Location or Privacy, choose the app and set it to Never or Don't allow.