"Google Maps impedes GPS functionality on Android devices"
In a significant development for navigation technology, Google Maps has introduced a new feature that aims to provide seamless navigation in GPS-challenged environments, such as tunnels. This innovation utilises Bluetooth beacons installed inside tunnels to maintain location accuracy and ensure uninterrupted navigation.
The feature, which requires manual activation, can be found in the Google Maps settings under Navigation > Driving options. Users need to toggle on the "Tunnel Bluetooth Beacon" option to enable it. At present, this technology is available exclusively on Android devices, due to iOS restrictions on background Bluetooth usage.
This innovation addresses the common navigation gaps that occur in tunnels and other signal-challenged locations like underground parking garages, train stations, and shopping centres. By connecting phones to the existing Bluetooth beacons installed in many tunnels, initially rolled out widely in cities like Paris, Google Maps can determine the user’s position underground and continue providing real-time navigation instructions without interruption.
The use of Bluetooth beacons for navigation is a major leap forward in making navigation more reliable in GPS-denied environments. However, the future availability of this feature for iOS devices remains uncertain.
This technology is still relatively unknown, but it has been discussed in the current issue of the magazine "Computer Bild". As one of the most popular navigation apps, Google Maps continues to push the boundaries of technology to enhance user experience and navigation reliability.
References: 1. [Computer Bild, Issue 18/2025] 2. [Various online sources] 3. [Google Maps official blog] 4. [Bluetooth Special Interest Group] 5. [City of Paris official website]
- With the new feature on Google Maps, users can now navigate seamlessly even in GPS-challenged environments like tunnels, thanks to the utilization of smartphones and gadgets connected to Bluetooth beacons for position determination.
- The use of Bluetooth technology in navigation has been hailed as a major advancement, with Google Maps leading the way in this innovation, particularly on Android devices, but its future availability on iOS devices remains unclear.
