What is an online compass?
An online compass show which way is north, east, south, and west using your device built-in sensors. It works just like a regular compass. You can use it to find directions without installing any apps.
How do I enable compass permissions?
For iPhone and iPad (iOS/Safari):
- Open Settings on your device
- Scroll down and tap Safari
- Scroll down to Privacy & Security
- Turn on Motion & Orientation Access
- Reload the compass page
For Android (Chrome):
- Open Chrome settings
- Go to Site Settings
- Tap on Sensors or Location
- Allow the compass website to access sensors
For Android (Other Browsers):
- Look for permissions in your browser settings
- Enable both location and motion sensors
- Reload the page after enabling permissions
How does the online compass work?
This compass use your device magnetometer sensor to find magnetic north. When you hold your device flat, the compass needle points toward north, helping you find other directions like south, east, and west.
What devices can I use the online compass on?
- Most smartphones (iPhone and Android)
- Tablets
Do I need an internet connection?
You only need internet to load the compass website the first time. After that, the compass works without internet, making it perfect for outdoor use.
Why do I need to enable location services?
The compass needs permission to use your device’s direction sensor. While this comes under "location services," we don’t track or store your location.
How accurate is the online compass?
The accuracy depends on your device’s sensors. To get the best results:
- Keep your device away from metal objects
- Hold your phone flat
- Calibrate when prompted or shake your device before use
- Check the accuracy indicator on screen
How do I calibrate the compass?
When the accuracy is low, you can calibrate the compass by:
- Moving your device in a figure-8 pattern
- Shaking your device
- Rotating your device horizontally
- Waiting for the accuracy indicator to improve
What do the compass readings mean?
| N (North) | 0° |
| E (East) | 90° |
| S (South) | 180° |
| W (West) | 270° |
| NE (Northeast) | 45° |
| SE (Southeast) | 135° |
| SW (Southwest) | 225° |
| NW (Northwest) | 315° |
Troubleshooting Common Issues
- Make sure you’ve enabled all required permissions
- Both location and motion sensors should be on
- Some browsers might need a restart after enabling permissions
- Safari: Enable motion & orientation access
- Chrome: Enable generic sensor settings
- Firefox: Check site permissions
- Ensure your device has a magnetometer
- Keep away from magnetic objects
- Try recalibrating the sensor
- Update your browser and system
Tips for Best Results
- Calibrate before important measurements
- Use in open areas when possible
- Hold device steady and flat
- Check accuracy indicator regularly
- Keep device away from magnetic objects