Smartwatches Achieve Centimeter-Level GPS Accuracy in World-First Breakthrough

Oct 19, 2025
techxplore
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Summary

University of Otago researchers achieve world-first breakthrough enabling smartwatches to pinpoint locations within 8 centimeters using new algorithms that combine signals from multiple satellite systems, bringing military-grade GPS precision to everyday consumer devices.

Key Points

  • University of Otago researchers develop new algorithms that enable smartwatches to achieve centimeter-level location precision, a world-first breakthrough in wearable positioning technology
  • The technology combines precise signals from multiple global navigation satellite systems and demonstrates 8cm repeatability over four hours using the Google GnssLogger app
  • This advancement makes high-precision positioning accessible to consumers after decades of such technology being limited to expensive specialized equipment in surveying and construction industries

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