From everything I gathered, using remote devices with native GPS and real location context is way closer to testing on an actual user’s device in the region. I came across mobile app localization testing https://droiddesk.io/use-cases/geo-specific-workflows, which shows that renting a real Android device hosted physically in another market allows you to test apps with full native GPS context and real network conditions like WiFi, LTE, or 5G. This matters because changing the IP alone is pretty limited when you need to see app behavior that depends on real GPS signals and local connectivity. There can also be differences in device model, Android version, and app availability that only real devices reveal. Testing with these geo-specific workflows gives you more confidence that the app will behave correctly for actual users in those locations, including localized content, ads, and mobile experiences. I’ve heard users say this level of accuracy helps uncover bugs or mismatches not spotted during simulator or VPN testing. The real physical presence of the phone, combined with its dedicated network environment, makes a remarkable difference overall in testing thoroughness.