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 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.
92 Travelling
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.