iPhone and iPad: Calibrating Compass
Products Affected
iPad, iPhone
Symptoms
When using the compass feature in Maps or other applications, you may see the message, "Move away from any interference, or re-calibrate by waving in a figure 8 motion."
This affects the following products:
- iPhone 3GS and later
- iPad (all models)
Resolution
The built-in digital compass works just like a magnetic-needle compass. The accuracy of digital compass headings can be affected by magnetic or other environmental interference, including interference caused by proximity to the magnets contained in the iPhone earbuds. The compass may need to be calibrated from time to time.
When the device displays the calibration alert, rotate the device in a figure 8 motion until the calibration screen disappears. The digital compass should only be used for basic navigation assistance and should not be solely relied upon to determine precise locations, proximity, distance, or direction.
Additional Information
Some areas have more magnetic interference than others. For example, your car's dashboard may have a high level of magnetic interference. If you wish to use the device in a vehicle, do not wave the device in a figure 8 to calibrate. Instead, disregard the message to calibrate. The device will eventually recalibrate after several turns. Note that it may need to periodically recalibrate while you are driving, depending on the level of magnetic interference present.
| Warning: For important information about driving and navigating safely, see the Product Information Guide. |
After updating or restoring your device, you may notice that the recalibration alert appears more frequently. This is expected behavior, because the calibration database is being recreated. The frequency diminishes over time as you calibrate the device for various locations.
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