useGeolocation
A hook for accessing and watching browser geolocation with permission management and error handling.
useGeolocation
The useGeolocation
hook provides a convenient way to access the browser’s Geolocation API. It handles permission management, position watching, and error states, supporting both one-time location requests and continuous tracking.
This is a simulation for preview purposes. In a real app, the permission is controlled by the browser.
No location data available
Click "Get Current Location" to get started
This is a simulation. In a real app, actual location data would be used.
Installation
Install the useGeolocation hook using:
File Structure
Parameters
Prop | Type | Default |
---|---|---|
options | GeolocationOptions | {} |
Return Value
Prop | Type | Default |
---|---|---|
isSupported | boolean | - |
position | GeolocationPosition | null | - |
error | GeolocationPositionError | null | - |
isLoading | boolean | - |
permissionState | PermissionState | null | - |
getPosition | () => void | - |
stopWatching | () => void | - |
checkPermission | () => Promise<PermissionState | null> | - |
Examples
Location Tracker
A location tracker application that continuously monitors position and calculates distance.
Distance
0 m
Time
0s
Click "Start Tracking" to begin tracking your location
Simulated data for demonstration purposes
Weather by Location
Advanced Usage
Distance Calculation
Calculate the distance between two geographic coordinates using the Haversine formula:
Geofencing
Create a simple geofencing system to detect when a user enters or leaves a defined area:
Use Cases
- Location-Based Services: Delivery tracking, ride-sharing, local search
- Fitness Applications: Run tracking, cycling apps, hiking maps
- Navigation: Turn-by-turn directions, trip planning
- Social Applications: Check-ins, location sharing, nearby friends
- Geofencing: Location-based notifications, automated actions when entering/leaving areas
- Weather Applications: Local forecasts based on user’s position
- Augmented Reality: Placing virtual objects in physical locations
- Emergency Services: Sending precise location data for help
Browser Support and Limitations
The Geolocation API is supported in all modern browsers, but there are some limitations to be aware of:
- Secure Context: Geolocation only works in secure contexts (HTTPS)
- User Permission: Always requires explicit user permission
- Battery Impact: Continuous watching can impact battery life
- Indoor Accuracy: May be less accurate indoors or in urban canyons
- Mobile vs Desktop: Mobile devices often provide more accurate GPS-based locations
Performance Considerations
- High Accuracy Mode: Using
enableHighAccuracy: true
provides better position data but uses more battery and may take longer - Watch Frequency: In watch mode, positions might not update at a consistent rate
- Caching: The
maximumAge
parameter can be increased to use cached positions - Batch Processing: For location tracking, consider batching position updates instead of processing each one
Accessibility
- Provide fallbacks for users who deny location access
- Clearly communicate why location access is needed
- Ensure error messages are descriptive and helpful
- Allow manual location input as an alternative
Best Practices
- Always check
isSupported
before attempting to use geolocation - Handle permission states appropriately (prompt, granted, denied)
- Implement proper error handling
- Stop watching when component unmounts
- Be transparent about how location data is used
- Only request location when necessary
- Provide visual feedback during location acquisition
- Consider the privacy implications of tracking user location