GPS follow me mode lets a device track and follow a moving subject automatically, which is especially useful for drones, action cameras, and some GPS trackers.
If you want reliable hands-free tracking, understanding how to use GPS follow me mode correctly can make the difference between smooth footage and lost signal.
What Is GPS Follow Me Mode?
GPS follow me mode is an automated tracking feature that uses satellite positioning to keep a device oriented toward or moving after a selected subject.
In consumer tech, it is most commonly found in drones, where the aircraft follows a pilot, phone, or controller based on GPS location rather than visual recognition alone.
Unlike subject tracking systems that depend on a camera seeing a person or object, GPS-based follow me mode relies on coordinate data from the controller, smartphone, or wearable.
That makes it useful in open environments where the subject may be too small, too fast, or too far away for camera-only tracking.
Where Is GPS Follow Me Mode Used?
This feature appears across several categories of products, and its behavior depends on the hardware and app ecosystem.
- Drones: Common in DJI, Autel, and other consumer drone platforms for aerial filming.
- Action cameras: Some cameras pair with GPS modules or apps to keep framing centered on a moving subject.
- Fitness and outdoor devices: Certain GPS-enabled tools can track a runner, cyclist, or vehicle route.
- Vehicle and asset tracking: Some trackers use follow-style alerts or movement mapping for monitoring.
In most cases, the term is used most often with drones, so the steps below focus on that use case while still applying to many GPS-enabled devices.
How to Use GPS Follow Me Mode
To use GPS follow me mode, you usually need a compatible device, accurate location services, and a stable connection between the subject and the device doing the following.
The exact menu names vary by manufacturer, but the workflow is similar.
1. Confirm compatibility
Check that your drone or device supports GPS follow me mode.
Some models only offer visual tracking, waypoint routing, or orbit modes instead of true GPS following.
Review the manufacturer’s app, user manual, or firmware notes before relying on the feature.
2. Update firmware and apps
Install the latest firmware on the drone, controller, and companion app.
GPS-following features often improve through updates that refine geofencing, connection stability, and satellite handling.
Outdated software can cause inconsistent position locking or failed mode activation.
3. Enable location services
On the phone or controller that will be followed, turn on GPS, location services, and any app permissions required for background location access.
If the subject device loses location data, the follow mode may drift, pause, or exit unexpectedly.
4. Acquire satellites before takeoff
Wait until both the aircraft and controller show a strong GPS lock.
A weak satellite fix reduces positional accuracy and can make the aircraft lag behind or react too slowly.
In open areas, many systems perform best after several satellites are locked and the home point is recorded.
5. Set the follow subject
Open the flight app or device interface and select the follow me function.
Choose the target device or subject if the app asks you to confirm which controller, phone, or wearable should be tracked.
Some systems use the current controller position automatically, while others require manual pairing.
6. Adjust distance and altitude
Set the following distance, height, and speed before activating the mode.
Conservative settings help prevent sudden movements and improve safety around trees, buildings, and people.
For cinematic shots, a slightly higher altitude and moderate distance often produce smoother framing.
7. Start the follow mode
Once the subject is moving and the airspace is clear, activate GPS follow me mode.
The device should begin matching the subject’s path according to its programmed logic, which may include trailing behind, maintaining a fixed offset, or staying at a set angle.
8. Monitor performance continuously
Even if the feature is automated, keep the device within visual line of sight when required by local regulations.
Watch for signal warnings, battery drain, sudden course changes, and obstacles that GPS cannot detect.
Be ready to cancel the mode and take manual control if needed.
Best Practices for Better Results
Using GPS follow me mode well depends on environment, device settings, and realistic expectations.
GPS coordinates are useful, but they are not perfect, so planning matters.
- Use open spaces: Wide areas reduce interference from buildings, trees, and power lines.
- Avoid weak-signal conditions: Heavy cloud cover, urban canyons, and dense foliage can reduce reliability.
- Keep speeds moderate: Rapid acceleration can outpace the drone’s response time.
- Choose the right altitude: Higher altitude often improves clearance and smoother framing.
- Test before recording: Run a short trial to confirm tracking behavior and app responsiveness.
- Watch battery levels: Follow mode can consume battery quickly because the device is actively repositioning.
GPS Follow Me Mode vs Object Tracking
Many users confuse GPS follow me mode with camera-based object tracking, but the two features solve different problems.
GPS following tracks coordinates, while object tracking uses computer vision to identify and follow a visible subject.
GPS follow me mode works well when the subject is carrying a phone, controller, or wearable with a GPS signal.
Object tracking is often better for outdoor sports where the subject stays visible but may not carry a GPS device.
- GPS follow me: Better for predictable position tracking and app-based automation.
- Object tracking: Better for visual framing when the subject is in view.
Some advanced drones combine both systems, allowing the operator to switch based on the terrain and motion pattern.
Common Problems and How to Fix Them
If GPS follow me mode is not working correctly, the issue is often related to location accuracy, app permissions, or environment.
Mode will not activate
Verify that the feature is supported, the correct app is open, and the firmware is current.
Some systems also require takeoff before enabling autonomous modes.
Tracking feels delayed or unstable
Delay usually comes from weak satellite lock, low-quality GPS reception, or poor communication between the controller and device.
Move to a more open area and wait for a stronger fix.
The device follows the wrong position
Check that the correct phone, controller, or wearable is paired as the tracked source.
Background app restrictions can also cause position updates to lag behind real movement.
Sudden stops or drift
Drift may happen when GPS accuracy drops near tall structures, cliffs, or thick vegetation.
Reduce speed, increase clearance, and avoid environments with strong signal interference.
Safety and Legal Considerations
Before using GPS follow me mode, confirm the rules that apply in your country or region.
Many aviation authorities, including the FAA in the United States and EASA in Europe, require safe operation, line-of-sight awareness, and avoidance of people and restricted airspace.
Important safety practices include:
- Do not rely on GPS alone to avoid obstacles.
- Stay away from crowds, roads, and airports.
- Use geofencing and return-to-home features when available.
- Review local drone laws before automated flight.
Because the drone may move independently, the operator should always understand how to stop the mode quickly and regain manual control.
Choosing a Device That Handles Follow Mode Well
If you are shopping for a drone or tracker, look for strong GPS performance, stable app support, and accurate navigation features.
Good follow mode performance usually comes from a combination of hardware quality and software design, not from GPS alone.
- Dual-band GNSS support for better location accuracy
- Reliable controller or phone app integration
- Obstacle sensing or collision avoidance
- Clear manual override controls
- Regular firmware updates from the manufacturer
Products from well-established brands often offer more predictable follow behavior, but even premium systems benefit from calibration and real-world testing before important shoots or tracking sessions.