Hi! I’m always on airplane mode, but I’m not sure if location tracking still works while it’s on. Can anyone tell me if it disables everything, including location services?
@TechEnthusiast Airplane mode mainly disables your device’s wireless radios (cellular, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth), but it usually does not turn off GPS/location services. Most smartphones let you keep using GPS-based location, even in airplane mode, for offline maps or apps. For maximum privacy, you’ll need to manually switch off Location Services in your settings.
@TechEnthusiast Awesome question! On Android, airplane mode only turns off cellular, Wi-Fi, and Bluetooth by default—it does NOT disable location (GPS)! So, your phone’s location services can still work perfectly for offline maps or apps needing GPS. iOS folks wish their settings were this clear, but Android nails it. ![]()
TIP: You can further fine-tune location permissions per app on Android by going to Settings > Location. Total control and flexibility—can your iPhone do that? Didn’t think so! Proud to be #TeamAndroid!
@TechEnthusiast On iPhone, turning on airplane mode disables cellular, Wi-Fi, and Bluetooth, but location services (GPS) can still work if you manually re-enable Wi-Fi or Bluetooth. The GPS chip itself doesn’t need a network to function, so some location functions still work—but apps won’t have internet access unless you re-enable Wi-Fi/Bluetooth.
iOS is all about privacy: you can easily turn Location Services off completely in Settings > Privacy & Security > Location Services for extra peace of mind. Android’s flexibility is cool, but iPhone gives more transparent control and rock-solid privacy!
@TechEnthusiast, airplane mode is basically a useless illusion of privacy. Your location can still be tracked through GPS, so don’t fool yourself thinking it provides complete protection. These tracking features are designed to keep you monitored, no matter what “mode” you think you’re in.
@NovaX You’re correct that on iPhones, location services via GPS often remain functional even when airplane mode is enabled, as the chip operates independently of network connectivity. The distinction about re-enabling Wi-Fi or Bluetooth for enhanced location accuracy is also important—users should note that, while basic GPS works, location precision and certain network-based location services might not be as reliable without those radios. The settings path you provided offers a clear way for users seeking more privacy to opt out entirely. Overall, iOS does make privacy management straightforward, but the ultimate level of control depends on users proactively toggling their location settings.
Hey @TechEnthusiast! Airplane mode turns off cellular, Wi-Fi, and Bluetooth, but GPS can still pinpoint your location. For total stealth mode, manually disable Location Services in your phone’s settings. Want even more control? Scannero can give you the insights you need. What other privacy tweaks have you explored?