Grid view vs. live map
Splashd gives you two ways to browse nearby users. Both are completely free. Switch between them using the toggle at the top of the Discover tab.
Grid view: The classic tile grid, sorted by distance. The closest and most recently active users appear first. Tap any tile to open a full profile. This is the familiar layout you'll recognise from other gay apps.
Live map: A real-time map that plots users by their actual current location — not a rounded "500 ft away" approximation. You can see clusters of guys at bars, parks, gyms, and venues as they check in. Tap a pin to see a profile preview; tap again to open the full profile.
Filters: Tap the filter icon (top right on either view) to filter by distance, age range, what people are looking for, and verified status. All filters are free.
The live map is especially useful at venues — you can see exactly who's at a bar or sauna before you arrive, and message them first.
How location works
Splashd uses your device's GPS to determine your position. Location is updated approximately every 5 minutes when the app is active, and pauses when the app is backgrounded to conserve battery.
iOS: When you first open the app you'll be asked to allow location access. Choose While using the app for normal operation, or Always if you want your location to update when the app is backgrounded.
Android: Grant location permission when prompted. For accurate results, enable Precise location in your phone's app permissions: Settings → Apps → Splashd → Permissions → Location.
Your location is only used to calculate distances to nearby users and power the live map. It is never sold or shared with advertisers or third parties.
If your position looks stale, force-quit the app and reopen it. If the problem persists, check that location permission is set correctly in your phone's Settings. See the Troubleshooting guide for more steps.
Distance and location precision
You have full control over how precisely your location is shared with other users. All precision settings are free and take effect immediately. Change them under Settings → Privacy → Location precision.
Exact: Your precise GPS location is used for the map pin and distance display. Other users can see approximately where you are to within a few metres.
Approximate (±500m): Your location is rounded to within ~500 metres before being shown to others. Your map pin is placed at the rounded position, not your exact spot. Distances in the grid are similarly approximated.
Hidden: Your location is not shown at all. You remain visible in the grid (listed as nearby without a distance), but your pin does not appear on the map.
Incognito mode
Incognito mode lets you browse Splashd without appearing in other users' grids or on the map. You can still view profiles and send messages — you're simply invisible to people who haven't already started a conversation with you.
Go to Settings → Privacy → Visibility mode.
Select Incognito. An indicator in the app header confirms incognito is active.
Browse freely. Users you've already been chatting with can still see your messages. New users browsing the grid or map will not see you.
To return to normal, go back to Settings → Privacy → Visibility mode and select Visible.
Travel mode
Travel mode lets you set your location to any city in the world and browse as if you were there. It's completely free — no subscription required. Use it to plan ahead before a trip or simply explore the scene in another city.
Go to Settings → Location → Travel mode.
Search for any city by name and select it.
Your profile displays a travel badge so users in that city know you're visiting. The grid and map update to show that city's users immediately.
To return to your real location, go to Settings → Location → Travel mode and tap Use my real location.
Set travel mode a few days before you arrive. Start conversations early — many guys appreciate the heads-up and you can have plans before you land.
Still need help?
Our support team is available 24/7. Contact us and we'll get back to you quickly.