Android 15 introduces Wi-Fi ranging for precise indoor navigation

Android 15 now incorporates Wi-Fi ranging, a feature to improve indoor location tracking on compatible devices. Introduced in the latest software update, this technology supports the IEEE 802.11az standard. It enables devices to pinpoint their location with an accuracy of up to one meter.

Wi-Fi ranging supports precise indoor location

The new Wi-Fi ranging feature in Android 15 utilizes Fine Timing Measurement technology. This method, part of the 802.11az protocol, measures the time it takes for Wi-Fi signals to travel between the device and an access point. With this information, Android 15 calculates a much more precise location, enhancing accuracy to within less than a meter.

This improvement marks a departure from traditional methods that relied on signal strength, which provided less accuracy. By operating on the 6 GHz band, Wi-Fi ranging also increases the number of devices that can connect simultaneously, allowing it to work efficiently in large, crowded spaces.

The inclusion offers substantial benefits for applications that rely on indoor navigation. Shopping malls, airports, and exhibition centers can leverage this technology to provide accurate directions to users. It could also benefit retail and event apps, enabling users to locate specific products or sections within a large space more easily.

In addition to commercial applications, Wi-Fi ranging could enhance smart home automation by allowing devices to recognize exact locations indoors. This could help streamline automation workflows, making smart homes more responsive and user-friendly.

Device and access point requirements

To utilize Android 15’s Wi-Fi ranging feature, both the device and the Wi-Fi access point must support the 802.11az standard. The feature only works with compatible hardware, which might initially limit availability but is likely to become more accessible as more devices adopt this protocol.

The support for Wi-Fi Ranging opens the door to new applications, especially in larger spaces where GPS has limitations. The 6 GHz frequency band also means more devices can connect simultaneously, making this feature valuable for high-density settings.