How to Fix GPS Joystick Not Working in Pokémon Go

Updated by Megan Brooks on May 14, 2025 • Category: Change Location
3 mins read

Are you a Pokémon Go fan relying on a GPS joystick to enhance your gameplay, only to find it suddenly not working? You're not alone! Many players use GPS joysticks to explore the game without having to walk in real life. However, these tools can sometimes malfunction, which can be frustrating, especially when you're in the middle of an epic Pokémon hunt.

Whether you're facing issues like the GPS joystick not working, inaccurate location tracking, or being unable to move your avatar, here's how to fix the GPS Joystick not working in Pokémon Go and easily get back to exploring the virtual world!

gps joystick not working in pokemon go

Part 1: Why Does the GPS Joystick Not Work in Pokémon Go?

There are several possible reasons why your GPS Joystick is not working in Pokémon Go. Here are the general list.

1. Niantic's Anti-Cheating Measures: Pokémon Go actively monitors for cheating methods, including GPS spoofing. If you're using a GPS Joystick, it may be blocked by the game's security features, which prevent you from spoofing locations.

2. Incompatible App Version: Pokémon Go and GPS Joystick apps regularly update. If you have an outdated version of either app, the GPS Joystick might stop functioning.

3. Location Settings Configuration: The GPS Joystick requires accurate location settings on your phone to work properly. Misconfigured location settings could cause issues.

4. Rooted or Jailbroken Device: Pokémon Go can detect if your device is rooted (Android) or jailbroken (iOS), which may cause features like GPS Joystick to malfunction or stop working entirely.

Part 2: Best Solution to GPS Joytick Not Working Pokémon Go

The issue of GPS Joytick Not Working in Pokémon Go can be easily resolved with TunesKit Location Changer, which offers an integrated "GPS Joystick Movement" feature. This tool provides a smooth joystick control feature, allowing you to simulate natural walking, running, or cycling movements in Pokémon Go. It works flawlessly on both iOS and Android devices, ensuring stable performance without crashing or game detection issues.

Moreover, it enables you to catch Ditto in Pokémon Go, making it easy to access region-specific Pokémon and exclusive in-game events. You can adjust your movement speed, providing flexibility for mimicking real-world behavior and avoiding detection from Niantic's anti-cheat systems.

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Now without further delay, let's see how to fix GPS Joystick not working in Pokémon Go using TunesKit Location Changer.

Step 1 Connect Your Device

Download and install Location Changer on your computer(Windows & Mac) and connect your phone via USB cable. It should launch automatically after successfully installed. Then click the Start button on the main screen. Then you can access to the map interface.

main interface win

Step 2 Select Joystick Movement Mode

Switch to the "Joystick Movement" mode for flexible GPS control in the upper-right corner.

Step 3Simulate Movement in Pokémon Go

You can control the direction of coordinate advancement by dragging the dot, which corresponds to the arrow pointer on the coordinate. Then tap the Start Moving button and the coordinates will start moving in the specified direction at the set speed. While moving, speed and speed mode can be adjusted at any time.

start joystick movement

Part 3: Other Ways to Fix GPS Joystick Not Working For Pokémon Go

Method 1. Reboot Your Device

Restarting your device is often a quick and effective way to resolve minor technical issues and temporary glitches, including GPS joystick not working in Pokémon Go issue. Here’s how to restart your iOS & Android device.

Restarting an iOS Device (iPhone/iPad):

Step 1: Press and hold the Side button along with either the Volume Up or Volume Down button until the power-off slider appears.

Step 2: Drag the slider to turn off the device.

Step 3: After the device turns off, press and hold the Side button again until the Apple logo appears.

restart your iphone

Restarting an Android Device:

For Most Android Devices:

Step 1: Press and hold the Power button (or the Side button depending on your phone model) until the Power menu appears.

Step 2: Select Restart or Reboot from the menu.

Step 3: If you don't see the restart option, turn off the device by selecting Power Off, and after it turns off, press and hold the Power button again until the device restarts.

For Samsung Galaxy Devices:

Step 1: Press and hold the Power button and the Volume Down button simultaneously until the Power menu appears.

Step 2: Choose Restart from the options.

Step 3: The phone will automatically power down and reboot.

reboot android smartphone

Method 2. Turn on Location Services

Accurate location data is crucial for Pokémon Go to function properly, and without it, features like the GPS joystick won't work. Here's how to enable location services on Android and iOS devices:

For Android phone:

Step 1: Tap the gear icon to access your device's settings.

Step 2: Scroll down and tap on "Location."

Step 3: Toggle the switch to enable location services if it's off.

Step 4: Tap "Mode" (or "Location Mode" on some devices) and select "High accuracy" to use GPS, Wi-Fi, and mobile networks for more precise location tracking.

set location mode to high accuracy

For iPhone:

Step 1: Open the Settings app on your iPhone. Then, scroll down and select "Privacy & Security."

Step 2: At the top menu, tap on "Location Services."

Step 3: If location services toggle is off, toggle the switch to turn it on.

location service on iphone

Method 3. Update the Pokémon Go App to the Latest Version

Regular updates are essential for maintaining app functionality, fixing bugs, and enhancing game performance. Here's how to update the Pokémon Go app on Android and iOS.

For iOS Users:

Step 1: Launch the App Store and tap your profile icon in the top-right corner.

Step 2: Scroll down to the "Updates Available" section and find Pokémon Go.

Step 3: If an update is available, tap the "Update" button next to Pokémon Go.

Step 4: Enter your Apple ID password or use Face ID/Touch ID to authorize the update.

Step 5: The latest version of the app will automatically download and install.

update pokemon go on iphone

For Android User:

Step 1: Launch the Google Play Store and tap the menu icon (three horizontal lines) in the upper-left corner.

Step 2: Select "My apps & games" to view a list of installed apps with available updates.

Step 3: Scroll through the list and locate Pokémon Go.

Step 4: If an update is available, tap the "Update" button next to Pokémon Go to download and install it.

update pokemon go on android

Method 4. Ensure Pokémon Go Has Location Access

One common reason your GPS joystick isn't working in Pokémon Go is that the app doesn't have the location permissions it needs. Granting full location access allows the joystick to function properly and ensures smooth gameplay. Here's how to do it on both Android and iOS:

📱 For Android Users:

Step 1. Open Settings on your phone and go to Apps or Application Manager, depending on your device.

Step 2. Scroll through the app list and tap on Pokémon Go.

Step 3. Select Permissions, then tap Location.

Step 4. Make sure location access is enabled—set it to "Allow only while using the app" or "Allow all the time" for best results.

Step 5. Close Settings and reopen Pokémon Go to check if the joystick works correctly.

check pokemon go permission on android phone

🍎 For iPhone Users:

Step 1. Launch the Settings app and go to Privacy & Security > Location Services.

Step 2. Scroll down and tap on Pokémon Go.

Step 3. Set Location Access to "Always" or at least "While Using the App."

Step 4. After adjusting the setting, restart Pokémon Go and test the joystick.

pokemon go location access on iphone

Method 5. Reset Location Settings

Resetting your location settings can often solve GPS joystick not working issues. Follow the steps below for your specific device:

For iOS:

Step 1: Head to the Settings app, then tap on the General menu.

Step 2: Scroll to the bottom and select Transfer or Reset iPhone > Reset options. Choose Reset Location & Privacy, then enter your lock screen passcode when prompted.

Step 3: A confirmation message will appear. Tap to agree and reset your location settings.

reset location and privacy on iphone

For Android:

Step 1: Go to your device's Settings app and navigate to the Reset Options section.

Step 2: Tap on Reset Settings.

Step 3: Follow any on-screen instructions to finish resetting your location settings.

reset options android phone

Step 4: If an update is available, tap the "Update" button next to Pokémon Go to download and install it.

Method 6. Ask Customer Support For Help

If your GPS joystick still isn’t working in Pokémon Go, contacting customer support can provide additional help. They can assist with troubleshooting the issue and offer personalized solutions based on your device or account, ensuring you get back to playing as soon as possible.

Part 4: FAQs about GPS Joystick Not Working

  • 1. Can I use a GPS joystick on iOS without jailbreaking?

    Yes. Some tools, like desktop-based location spoofers (e.g. TunesKit Location Changer), allow joystick control without jailbreaking. These tools simulate GPS movement by connecting your iPhone to a computer.

  • 2. Can my iPhone be tracked if Location Services is off?

    Generally, no—your real-time location can't be tracked if Location Services is off. However, some features like emergency calls or certain location sharing may still use location data. For full privacy, review app permissions and sharing settings.

  • 3. What should I do if my location keeps snapping back?

    Make sure Wi-Fi is turned off, high-accuracy GPS mode is enabled, and any battery optimization for the joystick app is disabled. This prevents interference with your spoofed location.

Part 5: Final Word

By the end of reading this, you should have a basic understanding of how to fix the GPS joystick not working in Pokémon Go. For the most reliable and hassle-free solution, TunesKit Location Changer stands out as the best option. Its user-friendly interface, stable performance, and powerful joystick movement simulation make it a top choice for spoofing your location without detection. With TunesKit, you can easily explore new regions, catch rare Pokémon, and enjoy the game without interruptions.

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