Tags: GPS, Air Force, Google, Nokia
Publication: NewScientist.com
Publication Date: 01/03/2013

Locata transmitter for USAF, White Sands Missile Range. Image credit: Locata

A new ground-based positioning system might soon be competing with GPS. Locata, the name of the new service, uses ground-based equipment to emit strong radio signals over a specific area, making it stronger on arrival than GPS outdoors as well as indoors.

Its makers claim that in five years the receivers could fit inside a regular cellphone, which could make it a viable competitor to GPS service in these devices. Even the creators of GPS, the U.S. Military, have signed a contract with Locata to run a large-scale test at the White Sands Missile Range in New Mexico. According to reports, on a U.S. Air Force accuracy test at this location, Locata worked within 18 centimeters along any axis, and it seems to be possible to take it down to five centimeters.

However, analysts are doubtful that the service would be as effective and precise at a complex urban location. Creators of the system are currently performing tests in Sydney, Australia to evaluate Locata’s usability for emergency services and courier firms.

Ultimately, the system might not replace GPS but it could work alongside it. Besides being stronger than GPS, Locata jumps on the indoor location trend. Companies such as Google and Nokia are already looking for ways to develop this technology. With it, customers wouldn’t just be able to navigate around a mall; they could be directed straight to the exact shelf where the product is located in the store.

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