Apps on your Mac don't know your location

Why it happens

Your Mac only shares your location when Location Services is on, and only with apps you allow one by one. If the main switch is off, or the app's own switch is off, the app can't tell where you are. Macs work out location mostly from nearby Wi-Fi networks, so Wi-Fi matters too.

How to fix it

1. Open the Apple menu, choose System Settings, and click Privacy & Security in the sidebar.

2. Click Location Services and turn on the Location Services switch at the top. Your Mac asks for your password or Touch ID to confirm.

   Privacy & Security›Location Services

3. Scroll the list of apps and turn on the switch next to the one that needs your location, such as Weather, Maps or Find My. Only allow the apps you trust with it.

4. Quit the app with Command-Q and open it again. It should now find where you are, usually within a few seconds.

Still not fixed?

1. Keep Wi-Fi switched on, even if you're on a cable. Your Mac uses nearby Wi-Fi networks to work out where it is, and without them location is often missing or far off.

   Wi-Fi

2. App not in the list? Open it and use the feature that needs your location. When it asks to use your current location, click Allow.

3. For a website in Safari, open Safari, choose Settings, click Websites, then Location, and set that site to Allow or Ask.

   Safari›Settings›Websites

4. If only the time zone or clock is wrong, turn on setting the time zone automatically in Date & Time.

   General›Date & Time›Set time zone automatically using your current location

5. If the switches are greyed out, your Mac may be managed by a school or company. Ask whoever looks after it.

6. If Location Services and Wi-Fi are both on and Maps still can't find you after a restart, contact Apple Support.