iPhone 14 Pro Models Feature Improved GPS Accuracy

[MacRumors]

The new iPhone 14 Pro and iPhone 14 Pro Max feature dual-frequency GPS support for more accurate location tracking, according to Apple's tech specs for the devices. The functionality is also supported on the new Apple Watch Ultra.

As with the Apple Watch Ultra, iPhone 14 Pro models can receive signals from GPS satellites operating on both the legacy L1 frequency and modernized L5 frequency. L5 satellites broadcast a more advanced, higher power signal that can better travel through obstacles like buildings and trees compared to L1 signals. With a combination of the two signals, iPhone 14 Pro models will have improved location accuracy in apps like Maps.

According to the U.S. government, there were 17 satellites broadcasting L5 signals in orbit as of June. In combination with L1, the government says L5 will "provide users worldwide with the most advanced civilian GPS signal." However, while L5 has been rolling out since 2010, the government says the signal remains "pre-operational."

The standard iPhone 14 and iPhone 14 Plus do not have dual-frequency GPS support, according to Apple's tech specs. All four iPhone 14 models continue to support other navigation systems, including GLONASS, Galileo, QZSS, and BeiDou.

Article Link: iPhone 14 Pro Models Feature Improved GPS Accuracy

 

[ct2k7]

This is good, technology advances should be shared in the product line

 

[JM]

improved location in Maps when within buildings? Nice.

 

[dragoon2745]

I'll take the L

 

[macsplusmacs]

So this will reduce the number of times I see a "large blue circle" instead of an exact blue dot in Find My when following a family member correct?

 

[falkon-engine]

I would prefer 2 GB more RAM to this.

 

[DotCom2]

Clearly they are making the Pro's the stand out class.

 

[rgarita]

Problem is Apple Maps is **** in my country and at least 85% of the world.

 

[macsplusmacs]

Like when using Find My, if a family member is on Floor 9 of a building, most of the time, I see a big blue circle instead of an exact smaller one.

Looking forward to this since the whole family is updating this month.

 

[MCKLMT]

Can we expect lower battery consumption when using GPS?

 

[klasma]

Like when using Find My, if a family member is on Floor 9 of a building, most of the time, I see a big blue circle instead of an exact smaller one.

Looking forward to this since the whole family is updating this month.

Floor 9 specifically? That’s strange.

 

[MrRom92]

Great upgrade. Navigating in certain cities was basically unusable before even always owning the latest and greatest flagship iphone or watch. I’ve had so many instances, even recently, where I can stand right next to someone with the same exact phone and our phones will tell us we are standing in different locations and give us different walking directions. Not talking about some middle of nowhere podunk town either. Right in the heart of Manhattan. Getting walking directions in the city was nightmarish before this. It was better to just look at the street signs to know where you were.

 

[HorstBockman]

"Pre-operational" means unavailable?

 

[Populus]

Cool, this now marks a new base line for me. Just as Bluetooth 5.3. Any new Apple product that I purchase (Mac, iPhone and iPad Pro) should have the new Bluetooth standard because down the line, it will be the difference between having the new AirPods features or not.

With this new GPS, my feeling is almost the same: I use my iPhone as a navigation/orientation tool, and I want this on my future iPhone. Sadly, it’s reserved for the most expensive model… we’ll see what happens with the iPhone 15

 

[LeeW]

Upgrading our phones from the 11 to the 14 Pro feels like a really nice upgrade.

 

[Andrew73875]

Great! Can it pass the Lombard street test? 😃

 

[WB2Colorado]

"Pre-operational" means unavailable?

I think it’s military speak for “still in beta testing”

 

[Alpha God Vonn]

First of all man never went to the moon so there are no satellites in orbit. All gps satellite 📡 are located on land & have to grounded just like all electricity ⚡️ to work

 

[surfzen21]

First of all man never went to the moon so there are no satellites in orbit. All gps satellite 📡 are located on land & have to grounded just like all electricity ⚡️ to work

Also that ground is FLAT the earth is not a sphere like the maps would have you believe. 🤣
🥴

 

[G3Blue]

Time to add an extra layer to my tin foil hat.

 

[macsplusmacs]

Time to add an extra layer to my tin foil hat.

In the USA, Reynolds makes a heavy duty foil, usually used for Turkey Roasts.

I use that.

Both for Turkey and Hats.

 

[one more]

However, while L5 has been rolling out since 2010, the government says the signal remains "pre-operational”.

An important factor while making purchasing decisions.

 

[cicalinarrot]

Great, more features your $800 (or about $1000 in most countries) iPhone 14 won’t have.

 

[Giant_enemy_crab]

This is great news. GPS has been horrific downtown sometimes.

 

[beerseagulls]

can Google Maps take advantage of this new feature?

I don't mind using Apple Maps, but it's been over a year and Apple Maps still doesn't show my home or half of my street.(new built homes.... the builder and everybody on my street have been sending reports to Apple on a regular basis)