Why can't any Apple device on home network determine their location?

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Level 1

11 points

Why can't any Apple device on home network determine their location?

Ever since updating my router, I have not been able to determine my location. When I connect the device to a cellular WIFI hotspot the location can be determined.

My question is this: what does Apple use to determine your location when using WIFI? I am under the assumption that the locations are determined via MAC address of the router that you are specifically connected to. If this is so, the data base holding the addresses would need to be managed and updated at regular intervals to maintain accuracy. When and how does Apple do this? I have not been able to determine my location for at least a year now.

Thank you.

iPad 2 Wi-Fi, iOS 5.1.1

Posted on Jun 18, 2012 10:53 AM

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Answer 1

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IdrisSeabright

Level 10

154,979 points

Jun 18, 2012 10:59 AM in response to KJ4BUP

Apple used to use a 3rd party company called Skyhook for WiFi based location services. They moved it in house, I think about a year ago. Skyhook had a way to register your router with them. Apple does not. I don't know as Apple has ever stated exactly how they determine location.

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Answer 2

KJ4BUP Author

Level 1

11 points

Dec 5, 2012 9:01 PM in response to IdrisSeabright

Suddenly about a week ago...after my new iPhone purchase...it works! All my devices now find their location. Anyone who now connects to my network now can accurately detemine where they are. I don't know if it was Apple updating their database finally or if it was the GPS on the iPhone connected to my network that fixed the problem. 🙂

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