Location Accuracy and Event Discovery
Luma shows you events nearby based on your location. If you're seeing events in the wrong city or country, this guide will help you understand why and how to improve your location accuracy.
How Luma Detects Your Location
By default, Luma estimates your location based on your IP address. This works automatically without requiring any permissions and is generally accurate to the city level.
On the iOS app, you can enable precise location access for more accurate results. This uses GPS to determine your exact location, which helps show you events that are truly nearby.
Common Reasons for Incorrect Location
Using a VPN
VPNs route your traffic through servers in different locations, making Luma show you events near your VPN server instead of your actual location. Turn off your VPN when browsing Luma.
IP Address Geolocation Inaccuracy
IP-based location is typically accurate to the city level, but not always perfect. Your ISP's IP address may be registered to a different city. On iOS, enable precise location access for better accuracy.
Mobile Data vs. WiFi
Your location may appear different when switching networks, as mobile carrier IPs may be registered to a regional hub rather than your actual city.
Location Permissions Disabled (iOS App)
If you haven't granted location permissions to the Luma iOS app, we'll fall back to IP-based detection, which is less accurate.
Improving Location Accuracy on iOS
For the most accurate event discovery on the iOS app:
- Tap your profile icon in the bottom navigation
- Tap Settings (gear icon)
- Tap Permissions
- Enable Location Access
- If prompted, allow Luma to access your location while using the app
Once enabled, the app will use GPS to show you events that are truly nearby.
Privacy and Location Data
What location data does Luma collect?
- Website: We only use your IP address to estimate your general location (city level). We don't store precise location coordinates.
- iOS App (without permissions): Same as website - IP-based location only.
- iOS App (with permissions): We use your GPS location to improve event recommendations, but we don't continuously track your location. Location is only used when you're actively using the app.
Can I use Luma without sharing location?
Yes. Location permissions are optional. You can browse events by category, search for specific locations, or view calendars you follow without location access.