On Ubuntu laptops, Google Maps often shows inaccurate locations due to reliance on IP geolocation or Wi-Fi triangulation instead of GPS, which laptops lack. Location services like GeoClue may be missing, misconfigured, or blocked, causing browsers like Firefox or Chrome to default to imprecise ISP data. forum.endeavouros
Ubuntu-Specific Causes
IP-based detection ties to your ISP's hub, often miles away, while weak GeoClue integration fails to scan nearby Wi-Fi for better accuracy. Browser permissions or VPNs compound errors, and Ubuntu doesn't enable location by default like some distros. bbs.archlinux
Fixes for Ubuntu
Install and start GeoClue: sudo apt update && sudo apt install geoclue-2.0, then sudo systemctl start geoclue and sudo systemctl enable geoclue. Grant browser location permission (Firefox: about:preferences#privacy > Permissions; Chrome: settings > Privacy > Site settings > Location). Connect to Wi-Fi (not just Ethernet), clear browser cache, reload Maps (Ctrl+Shift+R), and disable VPNs temporarily. Test accuracy outdoors or near windows for better signals. support.google