iPad iOS 26.2: External GPS disconnects when app minimized

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Level 1

4 points

iPad iOS 26.2: External GPS disconnects when app minimized

I have a new iPad 13pro and an older iPad 11pro both updated to IOS 26.2 that I run Navioncs, Aquamaps and several other gps location dependent programs on. When I connect via Bluetooth to my external gps receiver the data within the DualGPS interface shows it connect and the position is correct when compared to my ships Raymarine system on both iPads. The iPad 11 does not have a built in gps, so the external DualGPS xgps160 is necessary and historically has worked fine on all apps. Now if I minimize the DualGPS app or just open another app the gps disconnects and thus fails to give position information to any app. I have tried all the recommended steps (resetting devices, forgetting Bluetooth, updating GPS firmware, resetting location services, verifying clock information, etc). I can watch the gps connection status in the iPad reconnect when I reenter the interface program. Is this a known IOS issue and if so is there a patch to address this?

iPad Pro (M4, 2024)

Posted on Jan 6, 2026 12:45 PM

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Answer 1

LotusPilot

Level 10

302,036 points

Jan 7, 2026 1:39 AM in response to bruno7718

As the receiver and App were working prior to the iPadOS 26.2 update, it is reasonable to surmise that the middleware App requires a compatibility update - this being something that only the App Developer can resolve.

iPadOS 26.2 incorporated essential system security updates, any one of which may be responsible. Apple are not going to unwind a security patch; a failing App must be updated were needed.

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Answer 2

LotusPilot

Level 10

302,036 points

Jan 6, 2026 2:14 PM in response to bruno7718

Many external GPS receivers are not reliant upon a third-party App (middleware) to provide an interface between the GPS hardware and other mapping Apps - instead interfacing directly via WiFi/Bluetooth and iPadOS.

You would be best advised to seek assistance from the DualGPS receiver's own support resources - as they are best placed to offer specific advice for their hardware and associated App.

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Answer 3

bruno7718 Author

Level 1

4 points

Jan 6, 2026 4:14 PM in response to LotusPilot

LotusPilot,

Thanks for the suggestion and I understand the direct Bluetooth connection sans middleware premise, but this was working prior to the IOS update and I can clearly see the device connect and be disconnected within IOS functions. I will contact DualGPS and see what they say, but I suspect they will point the finger at Apple!

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