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Phone software recommendations and settings

We want your experience with Lyft to be the best possible, and making sure the app runs smoothly is key. Below are the requirements needed to support the latest features and updates.
Operating system requirements
It is recommended that you check your operating system for updates regularly to ensure the app is up-to-date and running properly.
If your phone won't or can't upgrade to the latest operating system, don't worry. You can still request a Lyft using your mobile browser.
The Lyft app requires at least iOS 16 or Android 7.0 Nougat to run.
Drivers:
Older operating systems may interfere with your ability to give and receive rides. Check with your service provider about upgrading your device to the latest system.
Riders:
It is possible to install Lyft on an older operating system, but you will be using an old version of the app and may miss out on support or new features.
Note: New drivers and riders wanting to download and install the app for the first time won’t be able to if their device is running iOS 16 or below. The app may also not be found in the App Store.
Location settings
To track your rides and update you while using the app, you must enable GPS/Location Services on your device and also have a mobile data connection.
iOS
Android
To update Location settings for your device:
  1. Tap 'Settings' on your phone's menu
  2. Tap 'Connections'
  3. Tap 'Location'
  4. Toggle the Location on
  5. Select Locating Method to 'High Accuracy'
To update the Locations Settings for the app:
  1. Tap 'Settings' on your phone's menu
  2. Tap 'Applications'
  3. Select Lyft
  4. Tap 'Permissions'
  5. Toggle the Location on
Menu options change frequently. Consult a technician with your service provider for troubleshooting if you're having trouble with location services.
Mobile data settings
The app must receive data through your mobile network to work. The app will become unresponsive if this setting is turned off. Here are some resources:
iOS:
Head to Apple Support to learn how to check your cellular data usage.
Android:
To update the mobile data settings:
  1. Tap 'Settings' on your phone's menu
  2. Tap 'Applications'
  3. Select the app on the list
  4. Select 'Mobile Data'
  5. Tap 'Restrict Background Data'
  6. Make sure it isn't toggled to 'Always'
Lyft app update
Update the app whenever there's a new release. This guarantees your access to the latest features and bug fixes. It's also helpful to update your phone's operating system (OS) and the Facebook app (if you log in with Facebook).
Check the iOS App Store or Android Play Store for the latest version info. If the app has an update available, you'll have the option to tap 'Update'.
See also:

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