How to Improve Compass Accuracy for iOS Devices
An accurate compass reading is essential for the correct orientation of your floor plan. Your smartphone’s built-in compass, also known as a magnetometer, can sometimes be affected by magnetic interference or outdated calibration. By following these steps, you can ensure your compass is providing the most precise reading possible.
To get the best compass performance on your iPhone, you’ll need to adjust a few settings related to your location services.
1. Enable Location Services for the Compass App
First and foremost, ensure that the Compass app has permission to use your location.
- Go to Settings > Privacy & Security > Location Services.
- Make sure that Location Services is turned on.
- Scroll down and tap on Compass.
- Select While Using the App.
2. Enable Compass Calibration
This is a critical system setting that allows your iPhone to use location data to automatically calibrate the compass.
- Go to Settings > Privacy & Security > Location Services.
- Scroll to the very bottom and tap on System Services.
- Find Compass Calibration and make sure the toggle is green (on).
3. Enable Precise Location
For the highest accuracy, ensure that Precise Location is enabled for apps that rely on the compass.
- Go to Settings > Privacy & Security > Location Services.
- Select the app you are using (e.g., your Feng Shui platform’s app or the native Compass app).
- Ensure that the Precise Location toggle is turned on.
4. Manual Calibration
If your compass still seems inaccurate, you can perform a manual calibration.
- Open the Compass app.
- If a calibration screen appears, follow the on-screen instructions, which usually involve tilting your phone to roll the red ball around the circle.
- If the calibration screen doesn’t appear, you can prompt it to recalibrate by moving your phone in a figure-8 motion a few times.
5. Check “Use True North” Setting
For Feng Shui purposes, you’ll want to use Magnetic North rather than True North.
- Go to Settings > Compass.
- Make sure Use True North is turned off. This will ensure the compass is pointing to the magnetic north, which is what is traditionally used in Feng Shui.