Magnetic and true north
Read headings in degrees and cardinal directions. Magnetic north needs no location access. Precise location enables true north corrected for local magnetic variation.
All apps
Floating compass
FloatCompass Floating compass for Android
Keep your heading in view.
FloatCompass is a floating compass for Android that shows your heading over maps and other apps. Read magnetic or true north without leaving your current app. Pro adds heading lock and saved places that you can open in an installed map app.
View on Google PlayFree features · Optional Pro upgrade / Android 12+
FloatCompass
Free compass features
An adjustable overlay
Move and resize the overlay, adjust opacity, or minimize it to the screen edge. Tap to restore the compass.
Location and estimated elevation
When data is available, see a street or area name and an estimate of elevation above sea level in meters, based on location and barometer readings.
Level and calibrate
Use the tilt indicator to hold your phone level, check calibration status, and follow figure-eight calibration guidance when prompted.
When to use FloatCompass
Check your heading beside a map
Keep your existing map app open while the compass displays your current heading. Adjust the compass position, size and opacity so you can still see the map underneath.
Remember a parking spot or campsite · Pro
Save your current location with Pro, give it a name, and open it later in a compatible map app. FloatCompass stores the place on your device; the map app handles maps and any navigation.
How to use the floating compass
- Open FloatCompass and allow Display over other apps. Magnetic north works without location access; allow precise location when you need true north or location features.
- Show the compass over your map or another app, then move or resize it to keep the underlying content visible.
- Hold the phone level using the tilt indicator and follow the calibration guidance when prompted. Read the heading in degrees and cardinal directions.
Visual guide
Some images show Pro features, described below.
FloatCompass Pro
More with Pro
Optional features, available through in-app purchase.
Heading lock
Set your current heading as a target and see your deviation as you turn. Vibration helps indicate alignment while the compass is expanded.
Saved places
Save a parking spot, campsite, or viewpoint. See when each place was saved and its estimated location accuracy. Rename or delete saved places and open them in an installed map app. Places stay on your device.
More themes
Personalize the compass with Pine or Gilded.
Pro features are available through an optional in-app purchase. Check the app for available plans and prices.
FloatCompass
Before you start
- Android 12 or later, with compass and barometer sensors
- Android Go and low-memory devices are not supported
- Display over other apps permission
- Precise location for true north, location names, elevation, and saving places
Location names and elevation depend on available services and sensor readings. Magnetic interference and calibration affect heading accuracy. FloatCompass is for everyday reference, not safety-critical navigation.
Privacy PolicyQuestions, answered
Can I use it without location permission?
You can use magnetic north without location access. True north, location names, elevation, and saving places need precise location permission.
Does FloatCompass include maps or navigation?
FloatCompass does not provide maps, route planning, or navigation. It displays a compass over other apps and can open saved places in a compatible map app installed on your phone.
Are saved places backed up or synced?
Saved places are stored locally without cloud sync or app backup. Clearing app storage or uninstalling the app can remove them.
