How to Change Location on Smartphone in 2025

  • 3 January 2025
  • 8 mins read

Table of Content

Table of Contents

Your smartphone’s location dictates the content and services you can access. Knowing how to change location on smartphone can help bypass regional restrictions, enhance privacy, and lets you access region-locked features. 

This blog explains the methods, benefits, and precautions of changing your smartphone's location.

Why Change Your Location on Smartphone?

There are several reasons why someone might want to change their smartphone’s location:

  1. Access Geo-Restricted Content

Many streaming platforms, like American Netflix or Hulu, offer content that’s only available in certain countries. Changing your location allows you to access this content.

  1. Bypass Censorship

If you're in a region where certain websites or apps are blocked, changing your location can help you regain access.

  1. Maintain Privacy and Security

Masking your actual location helps prevent tracking by apps, websites, or malicious actors.

  1. Test Region-Specific Apps

App developers or curious users might want to access apps that are available only in certain countries.

  1. Save Money on Online Shopping or Services

Some online stores or services offer region-specific pricing. Changing your location can sometimes get you better deals.

How to Change Your Location on a Smartphone

Changing your location on a smartphone can be useful for various reasons, such as accessing geo-restricted content or maintaining privacy. Here's a step-by-step guide on how to do it on both Android and iPhone.

1. Using a VPN (Virtual Private Network)

A VPN allows you to hide your real location by connecting you to a server in a different country. It makes websites and apps think you're browsing from that location.

How to use a VPN:

  1. Download a trusted VPN such as PureVPN, from your app store.
  2. Install the app and open it.
  3. Choose a server location from the list of available countries.
  4. Once connected, your device will appear to be browsing from the chosen location.

2. Android

  1. Open Settings on your Android phone.
  2. Scroll down and tap on About phone.
  3. Find the Build number and tap it 7 times to unlock Developer options.
  4. Go to Settings > System > Developer options
  5. Enable Allow mock locations.
  6. Download a Fake GPS app from the Play Store.
  7. Open the app, select a new location, and press Start to change your location.
  8. After you're done, go back to Settings > System > Developer options.

3. iOS

For iOS, changing the location requires third-party apps or software, as Apple doesn’t allow location changes without using special tools. Apps like iTools or iFakeLocation can help you change your location through a computer. You can use tools like iTools or iFakeLocation on your computer to modify your location.

What are the Benefits of Using a VPN?

A VPN is a great way to protect your online activity and access content. Here’s why it’s better than other methods:

  • A VPN keeps your internet traffic safe from hackers and spying.
  • It lets you use websites, streaming services, and apps that are restricted in your region.
  • Easy setup—just turn it on and enjoy seamless browsing.
  • With PureVPN, you can choose from 6,500 servers in different countries.

Why Choose PureVPN?

PureVPN offers great features that make it stand out from other VPNs:

  • PureVPN has servers in over 78 countries, so you have plenty of options.
  • No buffering when you stream or browse.
  • Whether you're using a phone, laptop, or tablet, PureVPN works on all major platforms.
  • The app is simple, even if you’re new to using VPNs.

Common Issues When Changing Your Location and How to Fix Them

VPN Not Connecting:

  • Check if your internet is working properly.
  • Restart the VPN app or try switching to a different server.

Websites Showing Your Real Location:

  • Clear your browser’s cookies and cache.
  • Use private or incognito browsing mode to hide your actual location.

Slow Internet Speed:

  • Try switching to another VPN server.
  • Check your internet connection to see if it hampers your connection.

Risks of Using Free or Unreliable Methods

While changing your location can be beneficial, not all methods are safe. Unreliable tools can may pose these risks:

  • Free VPNs or fake GPS apps may collect and sell your data.
  • Some apps or platforms may ban accounts found using location spoofing.
  • Many tools don’t protect your traffic, leaving you vulnerable to cyberattacks.

For these reasons, it's important to use trusted services and avoid shortcuts that compromise your security.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

  • Plus

    Yes, it’s legal if you’re doing it for personal reasons, like privacy or accessing content. But using it for the wrong reasons, like tricking banking apps, might be illegal.

  • Does changing my location enhance the online experience?

    Plus

    Yes! It lets you access blocked websites, keeps your browsing private, and can even make some apps or games work better.

  • Will using a VPN slow down my internet speed?

    Plus

    It might make your internet a little slower because it secures your data, but premium VPNs, like PureVPN, ensure minimal speed reduction.

  • How can I check if my location has changed?

    Plus

    You can use websites or apps to see if your location matches the one you chose.

In Summary 

Changing your smartphone’s location lets you access blocked content, protect your privacy, or bypass regional limits. You can use tools like a high-speed, premium VPN, such as PureVPN. VPNs are the safest option, but be careful with untrustworthy tools. Stay safe online and enjoy a more open internet!