Apple Watch Ultra 4 Drops GLONASS Support

Apple removed GLONASS support from the Apple Watch Ultra 4, according to technical specifications listed for the device. The Ultra 4 supports GPS, Galileo, QZSS, and BeiDou, while the prior-generation Ultra 3 supported GPS, GLONASS, Galileo, QZSS, and BeiDou. GPS, Galileo, BeiDou, and QZSS use CDMA-based signaling and support multiple frequencies for more accurate positioning.

Consumer devices typically only receive an L1 signal from GLONASS, so it is less useful on devices with dual-frequency support. GLONASS also uses a different signal architecture, and receivers have to correct for hardware timing delays on a per-satellite basis, which can lead to positioning errors. Apple did not say why GLONASS support was removed, but dropping it could improve accuracy, reduce processing, and possibly improve battery life.

The Apple Watch Series 12 continues to support GLONASS, likely because the L1-only limitation is less relevant on a single-frequency device. Related Roundup: Apple Watch Ultra 4 Buyer’s Guide: Apple Watch Ultra (Buy Now) Related Forum: Apple Watch This article, " Apple Watch Ultra 4 Drops GLONASS Support " first appeared on com Discuss this article in our forums. Apple Watch Ultra 4 Drops GLONASS Support.

Related Roundup: Apple Watch Ultra 4 Buyer’s Guide: Apple Watch Ultra (Buy Now) Related Forum: Apple Watch [ 28 comments ].