OS Locate for iPhone

Quick introduction to OS Locate

OS Locate is a complimentary navigation app from Ordnance Survey for iPhone users. It’s built to make outdoor navigation simpler by showing your exact position on Ordnance Survey mapping across Great Britain.

Main capabilities

• A built-in digital compass helps you get oriented at a glance.
• Easy sharing tools let you send your location and return-time estimates to friends and family via messaging or social platforms.
• The app uses your device’s GPS so you can obtain your position even when there’s no mobile network.
• Convert the phone’s GPS coordinates into Ordnance Survey National Grid references to pinpoint your place on an OS map.
• The About section contains additional guidance on maps and route-finding for users.

Accuracy and offline behaviour

OS Locate reads the handset’s GPS signal to compute grid references, so it continues to work in areas without cellular coverage. It’s optimised for precision on Ordnance Survey maps across England, Scotland and Wales.

Sharing and orientation tools

Use the sharing feature to notify others about your route or estimated return time. Combined with the digital compass, these tools make keeping your bearings and letting people know your whereabouts straightforward.

Suggested related app

If you also need rail timetable or ticketing assistance, consider Trainman Free (PNR) as an alternative tool for train bookings and PNR checks.

Important safety reminder

OS Locate is intended to complement, not replace, traditional navigation equipment. Carry Ordnance Survey paper maps and a baseplate compass for full, reliable outdoor navigation.