Frequently Asked Questions About Arrow to Pin
How does the Arrow to Pin compass work?
Arrow to Pin is a precision compass app that uses your iPhone's built-in magnetometer and GPS to calculate the exact direction from your current location to any saved destination. Whether you need to find Qibla direction to Mecca, point toward Jerusalem, locate the Vatican, or find your parked car, the arrow always shows you the way with real-time accuracy.
Why does Arrow to Pin need location permission?
Location access is essential for the compass to calculate direction and distance to your destinations. Arrow to Pin is a privacy-first app: your location data stays entirely on your device and is never transmitted to any server. We don't track you, collect analytics, or share any information.
How accurate is the Qibla direction finder?
Arrow to Pin calculates the Qibla direction using the great-circle formula with precise coordinates of the Kaaba in Mecca. This provides the most accurate Qibla direction possible. For optimal accuracy, calibrate your iPhone compass by moving your phone in a figure-8 motion before use.
Can I find direction to Jerusalem for Jewish prayer?
Yes. Arrow to Pin includes pre-saved locations for Jerusalem and the Temple Mount. You can also save any synagogue, sacred site, or custom location. The app calculates the precise direction using the same accurate great-circle method used for Qibla.
Does Arrow to Pin work for Christians?
Absolutely. You can save and navigate toward the Vatican, Church of the Holy Sepulchre in Jerusalem, your local church, or any sacred Christian site. Arrow to Pin works as a universal direction finder for all faiths and purposes.
Can I use the compass app offline without internet?
Yes. Once you've saved your destinations, the Arrow to Pin compass works completely offline without any internet connection. The direction and distance calculations happen locally on your device. Internet is only needed when using the map to add new locations.
How do I save a new location in Arrow to Pin?
Tap the "+" button on the home screen to add a new point. You can either tap on the map to select a location, search for an address, or use the "Current Location" button to save where you are now. Give your location a name, choose an icon, select a category, and tap Save.
What does the green screen alignment alert mean?
When you're pointing your iPhone directly at your destination, the Arrow to Pin screen turns green and your phone provides haptic feedback (vibration). This alignment alert helps you know instantly when you're facing the exact right direction, perfect for prayer or navigation.
How do I sync my saved locations across iPhone and iPad?
Arrow to Pin uses iCloud to automatically sync your saved points across all your Apple devices. Make sure you're signed in with the same Apple ID on all devices and that iCloud sync is enabled for Arrow to Pin in your device settings.
Is Arrow to Pin really free with no ads?
Yes. Arrow to Pin is completely free to download and use. All features are available without any ads, subscriptions, or in-app purchases required. Optional tips are available in the app if you want to support continued development.
The compass direction seems inaccurate. How can I fix it?
If the Arrow to Pin compass shows incorrect direction, try these troubleshooting steps:
- Calibrate your iPhone compass by moving your phone in a figure-8 pattern
- Move away from metal objects, magnets, and electronic devices
- Enable "Precise Location" in iOS Settings > Privacy > Location Services > Arrow to Pin
- Make sure you're outdoors or near a window for better GPS signal
- Restart the Arrow to Pin app
- Restart your iPhone if the issue persists
Getting Started with Arrow to Pin
Step 1: Allow Location Access
When you first open Arrow to Pin, the app will request location permission. Tap "Allow While Using App" for the best balance of accuracy and battery life. Your location is used only for compass calculations and never leaves your device.
Step 2: Explore Pre-loaded Sacred Locations
Arrow to Pin comes with pre-saved important locations including the Kaaba in Mecca for Qibla direction, Al-Aqsa Mosque in Jerusalem, and other significant sites. Tap any point to instantly start navigating toward it.
Step 3: Add Your Own Custom Locations
Tap the "+" button to save any location you want to find later. Save your home, workplace, parked car, hotel, favorite restaurant, or any place important to you. Organize locations into categories for easy access.
Step 4: Follow the Arrow to Your Destination
Select any saved destination from your list. The Arrow to Pin compass will show you exactly which direction to face, with live distance updates as you move. When you're perfectly aligned, the screen turns green.
Still Need Help?
If you can't find the answer to your question, please contact our support team. We respond to all inquiries in English, French, and Arabic, typically within 24-48 hours.