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User profile for user: SomeoneSendHelp
SomeoneSendHelp Author
User level: Level 1
4 points

Apple watch is still tracking offline iphone

My phone was stolen today and immediately turned off. Yet, when I connected to my wifi at home with my apple watch, I have been able to track my phone literally halfway across the state I live in. It updates on find my devices every 10-20 minutes. How is this possible, and how accurate is it?

iPhone 14 Pro Max, iOS 16

Posted on Jul 30, 2023 10:35 PM

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User profile for user: heinminthu
heinminthu
User level: Level 2
240 points

Posted on Jul 30, 2023 10:51 PM

The accuracy of the location information depends on various factors:


  1. The last known location accuracy: If your phone had a strong GPS signal and other location services enabled before it was turned off, the last known location will be more accurate.
  2. Wi-Fi network coverage: The location accuracy can be improved if your phone's last known location was near a known Wi-Fi hotspot or a Wi-Fi network with good coverage.
  3. Cellular network coverage: If your phone was connected to cellular data before being turned off, the location accuracy might be better in areas with good cellular coverage.
  4. Movement of the device: If the thief is moving, the location updates will reflect the new positions as they occur. However, keep in mind that if the device is stationary, the updates may not change.


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User profile for user: heinminthu
heinminthu
User level: Level 2
240 points

Jul 30, 2023 10:51 PM in response to SomeoneSendHelp

The accuracy of the location information depends on various factors:


  1. The last known location accuracy: If your phone had a strong GPS signal and other location services enabled before it was turned off, the last known location will be more accurate.
  2. Wi-Fi network coverage: The location accuracy can be improved if your phone's last known location was near a known Wi-Fi hotspot or a Wi-Fi network with good coverage.
  3. Cellular network coverage: If your phone was connected to cellular data before being turned off, the location accuracy might be better in areas with good cellular coverage.
  4. Movement of the device: If the thief is moving, the location updates will reflect the new positions as they occur. However, keep in mind that if the device is stationary, the updates may not change.


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Apple watch is still tracking offline iphone

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