This podcast explores the concept of reimagining GPS and utilizing a large number of measurements from multiple devices to improve accuracy. It discusses the potential of turning every phone into a base station for high-precision GNSS and the future advancements in mobile device positioning. The podcast also delves into the fusion of different sensors for positioning, the challenges of location spoofing, the value-based pricing in GPS technology, and the importance of redefining cost structures.
Using software to turn every mobile phone into a base station and creating customized error corrections can significantly enhance GPS accuracy and provide more reliable location information.
Building a mesh network of mobile devices can improve GPS accuracy by leveraging measurements from multiple devices, sharing error corrections among them, and creating a more robust and resilient network.
Deep dives
Improving GPS Accuracy with Mobile Devices
The podcast episode explores the idea of reimagining GPS and improving its accuracy with mobile devices. The guest, Sean Gorman, introduces the concept of using software to turn every mobile phone into a base station and create customized error corrections for each device. By leveraging a large number of spatially diverse measurements from multiple devices, the podcast discusses how this methodological reimagining can enhance GPS accuracy and provide more reliable location information. The goal is to open up new opportunities and use cases, such as improving rideshare experiences, enhancing fitness tracking accuracy, and creating better data collection networks.
The Benefits of a Mesh Network of Devices
The podcast delves into the idea of building a mesh network of mobile devices to enhance GPS accuracy. By leveraging the measurements from multiple devices in a secure and anonymous manner, the podcast explains how the network can converge on more accurate location information. The mesh network approach allows for error corrections to be shared among devices and provides a more robust and resilient network. While the current access to the necessary APIs limits the network to a server-based solution, the podcast highlights the potential for future developments, such as peer-to-peer mesh networks.
Potential Use Cases and Economic Value
The podcast explores various potential use cases and economic value associated with improving GPS accuracy. It discusses how industries like rideshare, fitness tracking, and data collection networks could benefit from more precise location information. By reducing inefficiencies, such as circling blocks or inaccurate distance tracking, the podcast explains how improving GPS accuracy can lead to cost savings and better user experiences. It also highlights the potential for new use cases and innovations that were previously limited by the accuracy of GPS.
Considerations and Challenges for Implementation
The podcast addresses key considerations and challenges for implementing improved GPS accuracy. It touches upon privacy concerns and the secure, anonymous sharing of measurements within the mesh network. The podcast acknowledges the limitations of current access to certain APIs, such as Apple's restrictions, while expressing the hope for future opportunities. Additionally, it discusses the need to efficiently manage computational loads and battery drain, as well as the potential for sensor fusion techniques, like utilizing IMUs, to enhance positioning technology. Overall, the podcast presents a compelling vision for the future of GPS accuracy and its potential impact on various industries.