Fix your location on the map

Updated

BusBus uses your location to open the map where you are and show the buses near you. It only uses your location while you're using the app.

When BusBus asks for your location:

  • iPhone and iPad: the first time the map opens.
  • Android: the first time you tap Find Me, the location button at the bottom right of the map.

If BusBus can't use your location, the map opens at Columbus Circle, and tapping Find Me shows a message:

  • iPhone and iPad: Location Services Access Denied.
  • Android: Location access is off. Allow it in Settings if you would like BusBus to find your actual location.

Allow BusBus to use your location

On iPhone and iPad

The quickest way:

  1. In BusBus, tap the gear (Settings) at the top right of the Live Map.
  2. Under Privacy, tap Location Access. This opens BusBus in the iOS Settings app.
  3. Tap Location and choose While Using the App.
  4. Make sure Precise Location is on.

Or, in the iOS Settings app:

  1. Go to Settings › Privacy & Security › Location Services.
  2. Make sure Location Services is on at the top.
  3. Tap BusBus NYC, choose While Using the App, and turn on Precise Location.

On Android

  1. In BusBus, tap the gear (Settings) at the top right of the Live Map.
  2. Under Privacy, tap Location Access. This opens BusBus's app info page in the Android settings. You can also tap Settings on the Location access is off message.
  3. Tap Permissions › Location.
  4. Choose Allow only while using the app.
  5. Turn on Use precise location.

The names in the Android settings can differ a little from phone to phone.

Then go back to BusBus and tap Find Me.

If your location is still off

  • Check that the blue dot on the BusBus map matches where you are. BusBus uses the location your phone or tablet gives it, so if the dot is wrong in Apple Maps or Google Maps too, the problem is with the device's location.
  • Turn on Wi-Fi, even if you aren't connected to a network. It helps your phone work out where you are among tall buildings.
  • Android: Make sure location is on for the whole phone. Swipe down from the top of the screen and check that the Location tile is on.

Use BusBus without your location

You don't have to share your location. Drag the map to the area you want, and BusBus shows the buses around the middle of the map.