Apple Watch will always use the iPhone GPS, instead of its own GPS, unless the phone isn’t accessible

Hello jglaysher,

Thank you for using Apple Support Communities! I understand from the information you provided that you would like to know if you Apple Watch is capable of tracking your location without your iPhone present; I'd like to help.

Apple Watch Series 2 or later has built-in GPS that allows you to get more accurate distance and speed information during an outdoor workout without your paired iPhone. Here's a resource that could help:

How to use your Apple Watch without your iPhone nearby

For GPS accuracy, you can also Calibrate your Apple Watch:

Calibrating your Apple Watch for improved Workout and Activity accuracy

I hope this information helps.

Best Regards.

That is how it is supposed to work. The AW works off the connected iPhone for things like cellular, data and GPS if the iPhone is nearby. As soon as they are out of Bluetooth and WiFi range (like when you leave the phone in your car) the AW will start using its own cellular and GPS signals.

To assure you it works, I use mine on my bike and it records route and all data. It’s fantastic. Have a great Park Run! Ta

Your iPhone has a larger battery than your Apple Watch. GPS is power hungry, so if it can use your iPhone it will. The same goes for a cellular Apple Watch, it will call via the iPhone if it can.

If on a walk, hick, run, etc…, and you have enabled a matching workout, it should be using the GPS to record you distance. It does this for my wife.