In today’s connected world, sharing your location on the phone is often just a tap away by using Wi-Fi, mobile data, and GPS technologies.
And sharing the location has also become a household name, be it while meeting your friends, trying to get food delivered, or navigating through traffic. But what happens when you don’t have internet access?
Imagine you’re hiking in a remote area, stuck during travel, or facing a sudden emergency in a spot where there’s no data signal or Wi-Fi.
It’s in such unpredictable moments that knowing how to share the location without the internet can be more than convenient, and also life-saving.
Whether you use an iPhone or Android, you can share your exact coordinates in just a few taps.
Here are some easy ways to do it
The process is surprisingly easy and works as long as your phone has a working SIM card for sending an SMS.
For iPhone users
If you’re using an iPhone, just open the Compass app, which comes pre-installed in the phone. At the bottom of the screen, there is a message showing the exact latitude and longitude of your present location. Tap and hold this line until the ‘Copy’ option pops up, then tap it. You can now paste this information into a regular text message and send it to someone without using the internet as the text message does not require any internet or wifi connection.
For Android users
Open Google Maps and let it access your location. Your current position should show up by default. If not, tap the blue dot that marks your spot. Your latitude and longitude will be displayed at the top of the screen. Copy those numbers and send them via SMS.
If the Google Maps app does not access your current location, then preinstall a Compass App on your phone and repeat the same process to avoid last-minute hassles.
What is the next step?
Once someone receives your coordinates, they can paste them into Google Maps or any map app to find your exact spot. This is incredibly useful in emergencies or when you’re somewhere remote. It can even help rescuers locate you faster if needed.
This trick is helpful in many situations, whether you’re lost, stranded with a flat tire, or simply trying to meet someone without using mobile data. GPS functions without the internet, so one can still get their coordinates even if they’re deep in the mountains or off the grid. It’s also great for travelers who want to avoid roaming charges while abroad.
For those using an iPhone 14 or later, there’s even better news. Apple’s latest updates confirm that the new iOS 18 also has a feature where one can text someone directly via satellite, even if they don’t have an active SIM, Wi-Fi, or internet. But for everyone else, the simple method of copying GPS coordinates and sending them via SMS remains a reliable and easy solution.