A smartphone’s GPS system determines location by receiving signals from a network of satellites. The GPS network, comprising at least 24 satellites, continuously broadcasts signals that include their positions and the exact time the signals are sent. The smartphone’s GPS receiver captures these signals and needs at least four satellites to calculate its position accurately.

The receiver measures the time it takes for each satellite’s signal to reach it, which is then converted into distance. Using a process called trilateration, the receiver uses these distances to determine the smartphone’s precise location on Earth. By drawing imaginary spheres around each satellite with radii equal to the calculated distances, the intersection point of these spheres indicates the smartphone’s location.

To enhance accuracy, smartphones integrate additional global navigation satellite systems (GNSS) like GLONASS (Russia), Galileo (Europe), and BeiDou (China). They also utilize supplementary data from cell towers and Wi-Fi networks, which is especially helpful in urban areas where satellite signals may be obstructed.

Moreover, built-in sensors such as accelerometers, gyroscopes, and magnetometers further refine location data, ensuring continuous and reliable location tracking for navigation, mapping, and various location-based applications. This multifaceted approach ensures that smartphones provide precise and dependable location information.