FAQ
Frequently asked questions
Straight answers, including what ClearSpeed doesn’t do. Facts checked against the App Store listing and the shipping app (version 1.0.6) on September 25, 2026.
How much does ClearSpeed GPS cost?
$3.99 once in the U.S. App Store (checked September 25, 2026). There is no subscription, no in-app purchase, and no ads. Apple sets prices in other countries, and the App Store shows your local price before you buy.
Is there a free trial or free version?
No. ClearSpeed is a single paid app with every feature included. If it isn’t right for you, Apple handles refund requests at reportaproblem.apple.com.
Does it work without cell service or Wi-Fi?
Yes. Speed comes from your device’s GPS, and the app makes no network requests to show it. Without cellular assistance the first GPS fix can take longer, so wait for “Good GPS.”
Does it keep measuring with the screen locked or in the background?
No. ClearSpeed measures only while it is open on screen and does not use background location. “Keep screen awake” is on by default so the display doesn’t auto-lock. If you lock the phone or switch apps, trip time and distance pause.
How accurate is the speed?
With a clear view of the sky and steady movement, iPhone GPS speed is usually close to true speed. Accuracy drops near tall buildings, under trees, in tunnels, and at very low speeds. ClearSpeed shows the reported accuracy and switches to “Weak GPS” instead of a number when accuracy is worse than about 30 m. It is an informational display, not a certified instrument. More on GPS accuracy.
Why does it read lower than my car’s speedometer?
Car speedometers are generally calibrated to read slightly high, and tire size and wear change them further. A few MPH of difference is normal. Why they differ.
Does it show speed limits or warn me when speeding?
No. ClearSpeed shows your speed only; it has no map data, posted limits, or alerts. Waze and Google Maps show limits and speeding warnings where available. Compare.
What is HUD mode, and is it safe?
HUD mode shows large green digits on black; the Mirror option flips them so a phone lying on the dashboard reflects readably in the windshield. Set it up while parked, secure the phone so it can’t slide or block your view, and don’t touch it while driving. It works best at night. HUD setup guide.
Does it work with CarPlay or Apple Watch?
No. ClearSpeed runs on iPhone and iPad only. It has no CarPlay, Apple Watch app, widgets, or Live Activities.
Does it work on iPad?
Yes, on iPadOS 17.0 or later, in portrait and landscape. Use a Wi-Fi + Cellular iPad: Wi-Fi-only models have no GPS receiver and usually can’t report speed while moving.
Can I use it on a boat?
Yes. Choose KT to see speed over ground in knots; trip distance switches to nautical miles. It is not a chartplotter or marine safety instrument. Boating guide.
Does it save my routes?
No routes or GPS tracks are saved. When you end a trip, ClearSpeed saves a summary on your device — date, times, duration, distance, average, and max — which you can clear anytime. There is no cloud sync or export.
What data does ClearSpeed collect?
None. The App Store privacy label is “Data Not Collected.” There is no account, no advertising or analytics SDK, and your location is never uploaded. This website has optional, opt-in Google Analytics, described in the privacy policy.
Does it use a lot of battery?
Keeping the screen on with GPS running uses noticeable power, like any speedometer. Battery Saver lowers GPS precision and dims non-essential UI. For long drives or rides, connect power.
Which languages and devices are supported?
iPhone and iPad with iOS/iPadOS 17.0 or later. The app interface is localized into more than 40 languages, including Spanish, French, German, Japanese, Korean, Chinese, Arabic, and Hindi.
How do I get support?
Message the developer, David Balderston, on X at @davidbalderston. See the support page for troubleshooting steps.