GPS bug ipad mini 6

In order to use Google maps or Apple maps on my Ipad Mini 6 (cellular, so with GPS), I have to consistently stop and start location services after I start the map app. If not, the GPS stops updating within minutes. After that location service stop start it works just fine.


Unfortunately the location services button is buried deep and an unsafe thing to do while driving.


Questions:


  • Is there a simpler way to achieve a working GPS (airplane mode on/off cycle does not do it).


  • Why do I get SW update after update without a fix for what clearly is a bug? It is an Apple device, not a Microsoft one, did Apple lose their way?


iPad mini 6, iPadOS 18

Posted on Oct 4, 2025 10:28 AM

Reply
Question marked as Top-ranking reply

Posted on Oct 4, 2025 12:21 PM

For most users, GPS works as expected with WiFi+Cellular models of iPad. There isn't a widespread bug affecting the iPad mini6. That said, if you have a WiFi+Cellular model iPad that isn't able to maintain GNSS-based location, your location might be relevant. GNSS/GPS jamming has become a regular issue in some parts of the world - such as Russia, Eastern Mediterranean, Baltics and the Middle East. If you are located in one of these regions, you might reasonably anticipate seeing issues. In affected regions network-based geolocation services might be similarly blocked by your local authorities.


If your iPad is not operating as expected, try a forced-restart - as this will often clear an isolated software issue:


Force restart iPad (models with Face ID or with Touch ID in the top button)

If your iPad doesn’t have the Home button, do the following:

  1. Press and quickly release the volume button nearest to the top button.
  2. Press and quickly release the volume button farthest from the top button.
  3. Press and hold the top button.
  4. When the Apple logo appears, release the top button.





If the problem persists after performing the restart, it may be necessary to reset your iPad settings. While this reset will not cause any loss of data, as a precaution, it is always wise to ensure that you have a current iCloud or iTunes backup before performing the reset:

How to back up your iPhone, iPad, and iPod touch - Apple Support


When you are happy to proceed, you can perform the reset from iPad settings:

Settings > General > Transfer or Reset iPad > Reset > Reset All Settings


If the problem still doesn’t clear, the next step is to reset the iPad to factory settings:

Restore your iPhone, iPad, or iPod to factory settings - Apple Support


Otherwise, you would be best advised to seek assistance directly from Apple Support. You can contact the Support Team using the Support link at top-right or bottom-left of this page. Alternatively and perhaps easier, you can initiate and manage your support cases using the excellent Apple Support App. If not already installed on your iPad, the App can be downloaded from the App Store:

https://apps.apple.com/app/apple-support/id1130498044


You might also visit the Genius Bar at your local Apple Store or Apple Authorised Service Provider (AASP) - where the technicians will be able to test and assess your iPad - and you can explore your available options:

Genius Bar Reservation and Apple Support Options - Apple

4 replies
Question marked as Top-ranking reply

Oct 4, 2025 12:21 PM in response to KJD60

For most users, GPS works as expected with WiFi+Cellular models of iPad. There isn't a widespread bug affecting the iPad mini6. That said, if you have a WiFi+Cellular model iPad that isn't able to maintain GNSS-based location, your location might be relevant. GNSS/GPS jamming has become a regular issue in some parts of the world - such as Russia, Eastern Mediterranean, Baltics and the Middle East. If you are located in one of these regions, you might reasonably anticipate seeing issues. In affected regions network-based geolocation services might be similarly blocked by your local authorities.


If your iPad is not operating as expected, try a forced-restart - as this will often clear an isolated software issue:


Force restart iPad (models with Face ID or with Touch ID in the top button)

If your iPad doesn’t have the Home button, do the following:

  1. Press and quickly release the volume button nearest to the top button.
  2. Press and quickly release the volume button farthest from the top button.
  3. Press and hold the top button.
  4. When the Apple logo appears, release the top button.





If the problem persists after performing the restart, it may be necessary to reset your iPad settings. While this reset will not cause any loss of data, as a precaution, it is always wise to ensure that you have a current iCloud or iTunes backup before performing the reset:

How to back up your iPhone, iPad, and iPod touch - Apple Support


When you are happy to proceed, you can perform the reset from iPad settings:

Settings > General > Transfer or Reset iPad > Reset > Reset All Settings


If the problem still doesn’t clear, the next step is to reset the iPad to factory settings:

Restore your iPhone, iPad, or iPod to factory settings - Apple Support


Otherwise, you would be best advised to seek assistance directly from Apple Support. You can contact the Support Team using the Support link at top-right or bottom-left of this page. Alternatively and perhaps easier, you can initiate and manage your support cases using the excellent Apple Support App. If not already installed on your iPad, the App can be downloaded from the App Store:

https://apps.apple.com/app/apple-support/id1130498044


You might also visit the Genius Bar at your local Apple Store or Apple Authorised Service Provider (AASP) - where the technicians will be able to test and assess your iPad - and you can explore your available options:

Genius Bar Reservation and Apple Support Options - Apple

Oct 5, 2025 3:12 PM in response to KJD60

KJD60 wrote:

It does seem to not be a unique occurance. I did not invent restarting location services myself as a workaround. Found that while Googling the issue, posted as a solution by others that had the same issue.

The fact that this completely solves the issue for the current map session is a very strong indication of a SW bug, not something that will resolve with a reload after factory reset, or a hardware issue.



If a bug existed, we would likely see dozens of similar reports to yours here. Your assertion is not supported by quantifiable evidence of a systemic software defect (a.k.a. "bug").


While I have not observed an abundance of reports with any similarity to your own, I have no doubt that you have an unresolved issue. As such, the suggested systematic approach to resolving your problem is valid - and is precisely the troubleshooting sequence that is likely to be suggested by Apple Support.


If restoring to factory settings does not resolve the problem, then [and only then can] the possibility of a hardware issue be contemplated.



Oct 4, 2025 2:03 PM in response to KJD60

Thanks, I tried turning off and on, that does not resolve it.


I contacted Apple support, they told me it could be radio interference from a charger. Unplugged all chargers, that did not fix it. They also told me to reset network settings, that did not fix it either.


When I drive I usually have an iPhone too, I just like the larger screen of the iPad better. The iPhone has zero issues with GPS reception, it is so far 100% reliable. The iPad actually is too, but not until after switching off/ on location services. When it fails it just stops updating location, no error message. I now keep an eye on the speed indicator on the map screen. When it fails, that goes to ‘-‘.


Will try a factory reset.


Oct 5, 2025 12:51 PM in response to KJD60

It does seem to not be a unique occurance. I did not invent restarting location services myself as a workaround. Found that while Googling the issue, posted as a solution by others that had the same issue.


The fact that this completely solves the issue for the current map session is a very strong indication of a SW bug, not something that will resolve with a reload after factory reset, or a hardware issue.



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GPS bug ipad mini 6

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