What is Dual Frequency GPS in Apple Watch Ultra and iPhone 14 Pro series & How It Works Explained

For the first time, Apple has made dual frequency GPS bands available. But what does iOS 16’s dual frequency GPS entail? Let me explain how your gadgets will benefit from these GPS frequency ranges. Along with the Apple Watch Ultra, the dual frequency bands have been introduced to the lineup for the iPhone 14 Pro.

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Major problems in the iPhone 14 Pro lineup have been fixed by the most recent iOS 16 release. The iPhone 14 Pro camera shaking has been fixed by the most recent update. Even if your iPhone 14 Pro’s issues are fixed, fixing it won’t be easy. We recognize that fixing an iPhone 14 Pro is more difficult than anticipated. Repairing an iPhone 14 is simpler and more accessible in comparison.

At its Far-Out presentation, Apple unveiled a wide variety of products. I noticed that Apple consistently stressed enhanced connection throughout the event. While features like Compass Waypoint, Backtracking, and Satellite Connectivity have garnered most of the attention, the latter heavily relies on Dual-Frequency GPS, which was first introduced with the Apple Watch Ultra and the iPhone 14 Pro series.

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Most of us use GPS every day, so we have a basic understanding of what it is and how it functions. However, let’s review what we already know about GPS before delving into Dual-Frequency GPS and the reasons Apple has now included it on its iPhones.

How will dual frequency function on iOS 16 then? Here’s all you should know about dual frequency GPS in iOS 16.

What is Dual Frequency GPS in iOS 16?

What is Dual Frequency GPS in iOS 16

Dual Frequency GPS in iOS 16 is added for more precise and accurate positioning. This will be the first time Apple uses dual frequency GPS in any device. Right now, dual frequency is added to iPhone 14 Pro lineup and Apple Watch Ultra. iPhone 14, Apple Watch Series 8, and Apple Watch SE do not have dual frequency GPS support.

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Apple has explained these are the devices that have dual frequency GPS as these are aimed at a selected consumer base. These devices are aimed at consumers who venture out into places with less connectivity. Or where there can be a disturbance in signal reception in cities with too many skyscrapers.

Dual Frequency GPS uses a stronger and more accurate L5 frequency band. This is in addition to the L1 frequency band. Having a dual frequency band for GPS eliminates the chances of receiving reflected signals. L5 GPS frequency band will catch the signal directly. This will be essential where there is less connectivity, making it easier to locate a person or place.

Also, read How to Fix iOS 16’s annoying copy and paste prompts Bug?

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How Does Dual Frequency GPS Work in iOS 16?

As of now, Apple has introduced GPS frequency bands only in Apple Watch Ultra and iPhone 14 Pro lineup. These products are aimed at people who go out into places with little or no connectivity. Another reason is to make controlling drones more accurate. As the Apple ecosystem is becoming more accommodating of third-party devices and apps, this will be important. We already know that you can pair your Nintendo to your iOS 16.

The Apple Watch Ultra and the iPhone Pro lineup will be mainly used by people who need really strong connectivity while traveling for these products. We do know that iPhone 14 Pro line does have satellite connectivity. Having a dual frequency GPS will be helpful in cases of emergency as well.

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iPhone Pro lineup was facing issues with the GPS right after the launch. This was because of the dual frequency GPS. Let me tell you if Apple has fixed the dual-frequency GPS for iPhone 14 Pro.

Also, read How to Fix iPhone 14 Pro Camera Shaking bug easily?

Apple Fixes Dual Frequency GPS for iPhone 14 Pro in iOS 16.1 Beta 2

With the recent update for iPhone 14 Pro GPS has been fixed. This new update is rolled out on the iOS 16.1 Beta 2 for now. You can install iOS 16 beta 2 instead of downgrading to iOS 16.1. iPhone 14 Pro camera has been shaking violently when using third-party apps as well. This bug has also been fixed with the new update that was released recently.

Also, read How to quickly translate text in The Camera App in iOS 16?

What is GPS, and how does it work?

What is GPS, and how does it work
Source: SpacePlace

Global Position System (GPS) is a satellite-based radio-navigation system, originally designed for military use, which was eventually adopted for civilian navigation purposes in the 80s. The government of the United States of America owns and operates GPS.

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GPS functions on a constellation of satellites that work together as a system. A handful of other countries have launched their systems, consisting of several operational satellites orbiting in space. Apple incorporates most of these systems in its devices.

GPS works on a predefined frequency system like any other electronic system. Since there are different ranges of frequencies, they are segregated into bands for simpler identification. The three frequency bands used by GPS are L1 Band, L2 Band, and L5 Band. 

What is Dual-Frequency GPS, and how does it work?

What is Dual-Frequency GPS and how does it work
Source: Apple

Dual-Frequency GPS is when a device makes use of two frequency bands simultaneously. While most devices function on a single frequency band – L1 Band, companies can and do build devices that use a pair of frequency bands instead of relying on only one to increase the accuracy.

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The dual-frequency system implemented on the iPhone 14 Pro and Apple Watch Ultra uses two frequency bands (L1 and L5 bands) simultaneously.

But isn’t iPhone’s GPS accuracy already great on the iPhone 13 series and below? All of a sudden, why did Apple feel the need to implement Dual-Frequency GPS in its devices?

Why is Apple using Dual-Frequency GPS?

Why is Apple using Dual-Frequency GPS
Source: Apple

The principal cause of using dual-frequency GPS is to improve accuracy. As already mentioned, two frequency bands work in unison to facilitate this, and in most cases, it’s the L1 Band paired with the L5 Band.

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Even though the L1 Band is the oldest, it is accurate and reliable. However, the major limitation of the L1 Band is that the frequencies it relies on are not strong enough to pass through tall structures, huge trees, or areas with dense foliage in general.

And that is where Dual-Frequency GPS shines. The L5 Band abolishes the limitations of the L1 Band and provides better signal processing. So, why don’t companies use the L5 Band and ditch the L1 Band altogether?

Because the L5 Band is in its pre-operational stages and cannot function independently, companies use a Dual-Frequency GPS to prevent users from getting stranded if the L5 Band were to encounter any issues.

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Another thing to note is that Apple’s implementation of Dual-Frequency GPS is not an industry-first feature, and several other smartphone manufacturers have been using it for a while now.

You’ve arrived at the destination

There are many advantages of using Dual-Frequency GPS, and I’m glad Apple has finally jumped onto the bandwagon, and we will now have an improved GPS navigation system. The benefits of using a Dual-Frequency GPS might not be evident right away, but it certainly makes a positive difference.

If you’re using any of the new iPhones or the Apple Watch Ultra and have noticed any changes to the GPS on your devices, do let me know in the comments below. I hope this article helped you understand Dual-Frequency GPS and why Apple is using it.

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Wrapping Up

Now that you are aware of what dual frequency GPS in iOS 16 is, High-end products like the Apple Watch Ultra and iPhone 14 Pro series will function flawlessly with this. The GPS issue with the iPhone 14 Pro has also been resolved with the release of iOS 16. We will continue to offer all the most recent technological updates. Keep checking back with thetechxp to learn more!

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