Apple has removed GLONASS support from the Apple Watch Ultra 4, per the technical specifications listed for the device. The Ultra 4 supports GPS, Galileo, QZSS and BeiDou, while the previous 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 precise positioning. Consumer devices typically only receive an L1 signal from GLONASS, so it is less useful on devices that support dual frequency. GLONASS also uses a different signal architecture and receivers must correct for hardware timing delays for each satellite, which can cause positioning errors.
Apple hasn’t explained why support for GLONASS was removed, but removing 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.
Popular stories
Apple Event Live Blog: iPhone Duo, iPhone 18 Pro and more expected
Apple’s “Surprise and Shine” event kicks off today at 10 a.m. PT, where we expect to see the foldable iPhone Duo, the iPhone 18 Pro and Pro Max, the Apple Watch Series 12 and Ultra 4 models, the new AirPods 5 earbuds, and perhaps a few other announcements. Apple offers a live video stream on its website, on YouTube, and in the company’s TV app on various platforms. We…
New Apple Watch Series 12 and Apple Watch Ultra 4 features revealed
Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman today explained what to expect from the Apple Watch Series 12 and Apple Watch Ultra 4 which will be revealed on September 9. While there were initially rumors that Touch ID could come to the Apple Watch this year, Gurman reiterated that he doesn’t expect the Series 12 or Ultra 4 to see any major design changes compared to the current Series 11 and Ultra 3 models. …
Apple Event Today: Cheat Sheet for iPhone 18 Pro and iPhone Duo
Apple’s biggest event of the year is almost here and all eyes are on Cupertino. With the first foldable iPhone set to headline Apple’s “Surprise and Shine” event on Wednesday, September 9 at 10 a.m. PT, the rumor mill is running at full speed, fueled by the biggest design change in the iPhone’s life. To get you up to speed, here’s a quick reference…
