Apple has announced that owners of some older iPhones and iPads should update their devices to fix the GPS bug that we heard about previously. This issue is critical as it affects the accuracy of GPS location services and the correct date and time on these devices.
If you own the iPhone 5 or 4th generation iPad, you need to update your device to iOS 10.3.4. If you own the iPhone 4S, 1st gen iPad Mini, iPad 2, or iPad 3, you need to update to iOS 9.3.6. These updates are essential to ensure your device continues to function correctly.
Understanding the GPS Time Rollover Issue
The GPS time rollover issue is a problem that affects GPS-enabled devices due to the way GPS systems count weeks. GPS systems count weeks using a 10-bit binary number, which means the count resets every 1,024 weeks, or approximately every 19.7 years. The most recent rollover occurred on April 6, 2019. While many devices from other manufacturers were affected immediately, Apple devices are not impacted until just before 12:00 a.m. UTC on November 3, 2019.
Starting just before 12:00 a.m. UTC on November 3, 2019, some iPhone and iPad models introduced in 2012 and earlier will require an iOS update to maintain accurate GPS location and keep the correct date and time. This is due to the GPS time rollover issue that began affecting GPS-enabled products from other manufacturers on April 6, 2019. Affected Apple devices are not impacted until just before 12:00 a.m. UTC on November 3, 2019.
Why Updating is Crucial
Updating your device is crucial for several reasons. Firstly, without the update, your device’s GPS functionality will be compromised. This means that navigation apps, location-based services, and any other applications that rely on GPS data will not work correctly. Secondly, the date and time on your device will be incorrect, which can affect various functionalities, including calendar events, reminders, and even some app functionalities that rely on accurate timekeeping.
For example, if you use your iPhone 5 for navigation while driving, an inaccurate GPS could lead you to the wrong location, potentially causing delays or even accidents. Similarly, if your iPad’s date and time are incorrect, you might miss important calendar events or reminders, affecting your productivity and daily schedule.
You can find out more information about the updates over at Apple at the link below. It is recommended you update before the 3rd of November to avoid any disruptions.
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