Although Apple has been testing GPS receivers for its iPhones for more than a decade, it now intends to expand those tests with a request to the Federal Communications Commission.
Those companies wishing to use the transmitters must apply for an experimental license deposit, which Apple did on January 23, 2020.
The application specifically mentions the installation of GPS equipment, referred to as “new or modified radio stations” in the definition established by the FCC and initially operational for a maximum period of two years.
According to the claim, Apple claims it has two goals.
"[First] coverage of part of the facilities located in 1 Apple Parkway, Cupertino, CA, with a GPS signal that allows tests and experiments inside the building for the continuous exploration of GPS technologies in their devices to continue offering applications innovative and continue to create safe products.
[Second] to expand the design, development and improvement of existing GPS applications to increase their efficiency and the most appropriate ways to use the information obtained through GPS ”.
Companies applying for this experimental license must specify where the device will be used and will not be able to move it to a new location without re-applying for the license.
Two points seem remarkable to me regarding this request:
Work inside the building. If the rumors about "AirTags" (speculative name, about a product that Apple is developing - which will compete with Tile) are true, Apple wants to be able to refine as much as possible the addressing technology it has already incorporated into AirDrop, not only you do it with glasses, keys or wallet, but you can go to office 17 on the third floor like I said here.
Technological advancement has reached a point where Apple is no longer served by borrowed or passive facilities, but must be in complete control of the entire process. And also officially enter Apple's privacy policy, so that nothing transcends products or availability.
Whether for use in Apple Car, AirTag or Apple Watch… GPS has just earned many places in Apple's development priorities.
Interesting overview of the GPS position in the mass market.
