Life360 is a smartphone app that offers current location-based information. People who want to monitor their family members’ whereabouts frequently use it, particularly in emergencies. Beyond location tracking, Life360 includes additional safety features such as monitoring driving speeds and detecting crashes.
Despite its popularity, several users sometimes encounter challenges with the app not updating locations in real time. This may lead to concerns, leading you to wonder if is life360 down. In this article, we will also provide troubleshooting tips to help users resolve the problem of Life360 not working and regain the app’s functionality.
Is Life360 Down?
You may often face difficulties with Life360, and you may wonder if it’s just you or other people who are also experiencing the same problem. So, firstly, I recommend using Downdetector.
Downdetector
Downdetector is a widely used service that provides real-time information about outages. If a website has an issue, it updates when your Life360 services are down or having problems. Whenever there is an issue, it records a notable increase in reports, indicating a current glitch in Life360.
The website shows a chart of an overview of the problem reports that have been submitted in the past 24 hours. It then compares them to the usual volume of reports at different times of the day. Instances of reported issues can occur at various times throughout the day. Note that Downdetector registers an incident only when the number of problems is reported significantly.
Why Life360 is down?
Here are some potential causes of service disruptions for Life360.
1. Server Maintenance
Service disruptions can occur when Life360 performs scheduled maintenance on their servers or infrastructure. During these maintenance windows, the app may be temporarily unavailable or experience reduced functionality.
2. Technical Glitches
Like any software application, Life360 can encounter technical glitches or bugs that impact its performance. These glitches may result from coding errors, compatibility issues with operating systems or devices, or issues with third-party integrations.
3. Unexpected System Errors
Unforeseen system errors or failures can also lead to service disruptions. These errors may be caused by hardware malfunctions, software conflicts, or other unforeseen issues that affect the proper functioning of Life360’s systems.
4. Network or Connectivity Issues
Service disruptions can occur due to network or connectivity problems. If there are issues with the user’s internet connection or mobile network, it can prevent Life360 from functioning correctly or cause delays in location updates.
5. Increased User Activity
High levels of user activity or a sudden surge in the number of users accessing Life360’s services can strain the app’s servers and infrastructure, leading to performance issues or temporary service disruptions.
6. External Factors
External factors such as natural disasters, power outages, or disruptions in data centers can also impact the availability of Life360’s services. These factors are beyond the control of the app and may result in temporary downtime.
How To Fix Life360 Not Updating?
If your Life360 app fails to update its location, it’s essential to confirm that you have enabled the location/GPS access and that battery optimization settings are disabled. Additionally, double-check that your phone has internet access and is not logged into multiple devices, and ensure that you have the latest version of Life360 installed.
1. Ensure Location & GPS Access is Enabled For Life360
To troubleshoot Life360’s location update issues, check its permission to access the device’s location services. The app relies on GPS and other location data to track you and your family members.
For iOS
- Navigate to your phone’s Settings > Privacy > Location Services. Ensure you have turned in Location Services.
- Scroll and confirm that Life360 has permission to access your location either “Always” or “While Using the App.”
- Verify under Privacy > Location Services > Share My Location that Life360 is enabled.
- Also, in Settings: Go to Privacy > GPS and ensure that GPS/Location accuracy is turned on.
For Android
- Go to Settings > Apps & notifications > Advanced > App permissions > Location. Ensure that Life360 has access.
- Tap Location > Use precise location to enable it.
- Occasionally, location access may be disabled, so reviewing and adjusting these settings can help to update your Life360.
2. Make Sure Your Internet is Working
Life360 operates on a cloud-based system and relies on a stable internet connection to synchronize data and display real-time locations. The app may struggle to fetch the latest location data if there’s an unstable internet connection.
Firstly, ensure that your phone has cellular data enabled:
- Go to Settings > Mobile Data and make sure it is switched on.
- Additionally, check WiFi settings:
- Ensure WiFi is enabled and connected to a network under Settings > WiFi.
- Test the connection speed to ensure it’s functioning well and not limited.
You can try the following:
- Disable WiFi and use only cellular data, or vice versa. Toggle between the two to identify if one provides better connectivity for Life360.
- If you have no bars or are in a poor service area, this might be why Life360 isn’t updating. Move to a location with a better signal.
3. Disable Airplane Mode
When Airplane Mode is enabled on your phone, it disables all wireless connectivity, preventing Life360 from functioning correctly.
To resolve this issue:
- Go to Settings and ensure the Airplane Mode is switched off.
- Additionally, toggle it off within the Control Center by swiping down from the top right of your iPhone.
- Airplane Mode blocks key components such as GPS, cellular data, WiFi, and Bluetooth — all of which Life360 relies on for updating locations. Disabling Airplane Mode will allow these connections to resume and enable proper functionality of the Life360 app.
4. Restart Your Phone
A simple restart can often resolve issues with apps not functioning correctly, as it helps clear out software glitches and reset system settings.
- For Android
Press and hold the power button, then tap the Restart button to restart your phone.
- For iPhone 8 or earlier
Hold the Side/Power button until the Slide to Power Off option appears. Swipe to turn it off.
- For iPhone X or later
Hold the Side and Volume Up or Down buttons simultaneously until the shutdown slider appears. Swipe to power off.
Leave the phone off for at least 30 seconds before pressing the Side/Power button again to restart it.
After restarting your phone, launch Life360 to check if location updates are now accurate. A restart helps reload necessary phone processes, potentially resolving issues preventing Life360 from working correctly.
5. Disable Battery Optimization Settings
To preserve battery life, iPhones have a battery optimization feature that can limit background activity for specific apps, potentially affecting Life360’s ability to update locations.
For iPhone
- Go to Settings > Battery > Battery Optimization.
- Ensure that Life360 is not selected. Tap it to disable battery optimization.
For Android
- Go to Settings > Apps & notifications > Advanced > Special app access > Battery optimization.
- Tap Life360 and select “Don’t optimize” > Done.
- Additionally, you can enable unrestricted background app refreshing in your device settings. Disabling battery optimization allows Life360 to continuously fetch location data, potentially resolving issues with location updates.
- Disabling battery optimization for Life360 may also help address problems with notifications not working correctly.
6. Log Out if Logged in More Than One Device
Simultaneous use of Life360 on multiple devices can occasionally lead to disruptions in location services and cause updating issues. To address this, try the following steps:
- Log out of the Life360 app on any secondary devices.
- Ensure you remain logged in only on your primary phone.
In the Life360 app
- Tap the Settings icon.
- Go to Account.
- Select Log Out on any additional devices.
This action helps eliminate device conflicts, potentially resolving issues that may interfere with proper location syncing.
7. Disable VPN
Virtual private networks (VPNs) route internet connections through alternative servers, changing IP addresses and locations, which can potentially disrupt apps relying on GPS coordinates, such as Life360.
To address this:
- Go to your device settings.
- Toggle off any VPN connections that are currently enabled.
- You can re-enable the VPN when you are finished using Life360 if needed.
Security apps and firewalls that modify network connections may also impact Life360 functionality. Consider disabling these temporarily to see if it resolves the issue.
8. Clear Life360 App Cache
Over time, accumulated corrupted app cache files, glitches, and software bugs can lead to issues with Life360 updating locations accurately. Clearing the app’s cached data can help resolve such software issues.
For iPhone
- Go to Settings > General > iPhone Storage.
- Tap Life360 and then tap Offload App to clear cached data.
- Reinstall Life360 from the App Store.
For Android
- Go to Settings > Apps.
- Tap Life360 > Storage > Clear Cache.
- Alternatively, you can uninstall and reinstall the app to wipe the data completely.
9. Update Life360 App
Keeping your Life360 app up-to-date with the latest version is crucial for accessing bug fixes, performance improvements, and enhancements that may aid in updating your location accurately.
Here’s how you can ensure you have the latest version:
- Go to the Google Play Store or App Store.
- Navigate to the “Updates” section.
- Check if Life360 needs updating and install the latest version.
- Additionally, consider enabling automatic updating for apps on your device. This setting ensures that Life360 is automatically updated in the background whenever new versions are released.
Using an outdated version of the Life360 app increases its vulnerability to location updating errors and bugs typically addressed in-app updates.
10. Check the Life360 Status Page
Verify the Life360 Status Page. Occasionally, server outages can disrupt the proper functioning of Life360 for users worldwide. Refer to the status page for any posted notifications regarding acknowledged issues.
If the status page indicates degraded performance or an outage, you’ll need to be patient until Life360 engineers resolve the problem before location updating can resume.
Alternatives and Workarounds For Dealing With Life360 Outages
Here are some alternative methods, apps, and workarounds that users can consider during the downtime of Life360:
1. Find My (iOS) and Find My Device (Android)
These built-in location-tracking features on iOS and Android devices can be used as an alternative during Life360 downtime. They allow users to share their location with selected contacts and offer basic features for locating devices and family members.
2. Google Maps Location Sharing
Google Maps offers a location-sharing feature that allows users to share their real-time location with specific individuals or groups. Users can set the duration for which they want to share their location and control the privacy settings.
3. Glympse
Glympse is a popular location-sharing app that allows users to share their real-time location with others. It offers features such as estimated arrival times, location history, and the ability to share location via email, text message, or social media.
4. Life360 Alternatives
There are several alternative location-sharing apps available in app stores that users can explore. Examples include Famisafe, GeoZilla, and FamiSafe. These apps offer similar features to Life360 and can be used as temporary alternatives during downtime.
5. Family Group Chats
In addition to location-sharing apps, maintaining open and active communication within family group chats can help keep everyone informed about their whereabouts. Platforms like WhatsApp, Telegram, or even traditional text messaging can be used for regular check-ins and updates.
6. Share Itineraries in Advance
If you have planned activities or trips, share your itinerary with your family members beforehand. Provide details about your destination, estimated arrival time, and any important updates or changes. This will help keep everyone informed even if Life360 is down.
7. Set Up Emergency Contacts
Make sure you have emergency contacts saved in your phone and share them with your family members. In case of an emergency or if you’re unable to reach each other, having these contacts readily available can be crucial.
8. Stay Informed Through Official Channels
Follow Life360’s official social media accounts or check their website for updates and announcements during outages. The company may provide information about the downtime, expected duration, and steps they are taking to resolve the issue.
9. Remain Calm and Patient
Technical issues can occur with any app or service. It’s important to stay calm and patient during Life360 outages. Remember that the outage is temporary, and the company is likely working to restore the service as quickly as possible.
Remember, when using alternative methods or apps, it’s essential to consider privacy and security settings. Users should ensure they are comfortable with the level of information they are sharing and only connect with trusted individuals or groups.
How to Change Your Location on Life360?
When you use Life360, you may also have concerns about being tracked. Don’t worry! You will solve that problem by iFoneTool AnyGo, which lets you secretly change your current location. It is compatible with location-based social apps and augmented reality games and stops location tracking through apps. It allows you to keep your whereabouts a secret from everyone.
Here are 3 easy steps to download it for free:
Step 1: Download and install the iFoneTool AnyGo on your computer. Open AnyGo and click the Start button.
Step 2: Connect your phone to your computer by USB, and then you will see your location on the map.
Step 3: Click the location you want to go on the map or enter where you’d like to go on the top left. And then click “Move”.
Now you can get a new fake location! It will also be updated in your Life360 Map!
Conclusion
You can use Downdetector to check that Life360 is down. It will tell you whether it’s a problem at your end or other users are experiencing it, too. Encountering issues with Life360 updating locations may be concerning. However, it requires targeted troubleshooting to restore standard functionality in many instances.
You should verify your device’s location, GPS settings, internet connectivity, app version, and battery optimization configurations.
Next, systematically review each fix to pinpoint and resolve the issue affecting Life360. You should also monitor the Life360 status page, especially in cases where broader service disruptions might impact the app.
Resolving location issues as soon as possible gives you more confidence in precisely tracking the whereabouts of your loved ones.
