About positioning methods
Maps displays your location on the map using GPS, A-GPS,
WLAN, or cell ID based positioning.
The Global Positioning System (GPS) is a satellite-based
navigation system used for calculating your location.
Assisted GPS (A-GPS) is a network service that sends you
73
Maps
GPS data, improving the speed and accuracy of the
positioning.
Wireless local area network (WLAN) positioning improves
position accuracy when GPS signals are not available,
especially when you are indoors or between tall buildings.
With cell ID based positioning, the position is determined
through the antenna tower your mobile device is currently
connected to.
Depending on the available positioning method, the
accuracy of positioning may vary from a few metres to
several kilometres.
When you use Maps for the first time, you are prompted
to define the internet access point to use to download map
information, use A-GPS, or connect to a WLAN.
The Global Positioning System (GPS) is operated by the
government of the United States, which is solely
responsible for its accuracy and maintenance. The
accuracy of location data can be affected by adjustments
to GPS satellites made by the United States government
and is subject to change with the United States
Department of Defense civil GPS policy and the Federal
Radionavigation Plan. Accuracy can also be affected by
poor satellite geometry. Availability and quality of GPS
signals may be affected by your location, buildings,
natural obstacles, and weather conditions. GPS signals
may not be available inside buildings or underground and
may be impaired by materials such as concrete and metal.
GPS should not be used for precise location measurement,
and you should never rely solely on location data from the
GPS receiver and cellular radio networks for positioning or
navigation.
The trip meter has limited accuracy, and rounding errors
may occur. Accuracy can also be affected by availability
and quality of GPS signals.
Note: Using WLAN may be restricted in some
countries. For example, in France, you are only allowed to
use WLAN indoors. For more information, contact your
local authorities.