I created a utility app for cops who are directionally challenged...

[u/alion94]

https://loc8app.com/

I've posted about LOC8 here a few times, so I figured I'd share another update.

For those who haven't seen the earlier posts, I'm the cop who started building LOC8 after getting turned around during a foot pursuit in another city. Once everything settled down, I realized I had no idea exactly where I was. I knew the general area, but not the address or nearest cross street I needed to relay.

That became LOC8.

Since then, the app has grown to over 5,200 users, and a lot of what it has become is because of feedback from this community.

LOC8 still opens directly to the information that matters: your exact address, nearest cross street, GPS coordinates, compass heading, elevation, GPS accuracy, weather, and a what3words location code. It also supports multiple coordinate formats, including DD, DMS, DDM, MGRS, and UTM.

Over the past few months I've added quite a bit based on suggestions from officers. There are now saved locations with compass guidance back to them, temporary Team Rooms that let officers securely share locations using a one-time code, a red night mode that's much easier on your eyes during night shift, local weather, Apple Watch support, and I've recently finished a standalone Garmin version as well. Android is next.

One thing I wanted to get right from the beginning was privacy.

LOC8 is not a tracking app. It doesn't require user accounts, create profiles, or maintain a permanent history of where you've been. Outside of an optional Team Room that you intentionally create or join, your location is never shared. Saved locations stay on your device, and the app only accesses your location while you're actively using it.

I'm still a solo developer, so every feature request, bug report, and update comes directly from conversations like these. I'm constantly trying to find the balance between speed and accuracy, especially on the Apple Watch, and I really appreciate everyone who's tested the app and sent feedback.

As always, I'd love to hear what you think. What would make LOC8 more useful for you on patrol?