If you look in the picture below you will see the World’s Smallest GPS Unit next to a €1 coin (a little bigger than a nickel). The GPS unit is not the metal square to the left of the coin but the tiny black dot in the top left of the metal square!
Believe it or not, that’s a fully functional GPS unit fitted with an ARM CPU and firmware, and it draws just 58 milliwatts of power. This marvel of miniaturization is called the ORG4472, made by OriginGPS.
Applications and Uses
The tiny GPS unit has been designed for digital cameras and other devices where space is paramount. This makes it ideal for compact devices that require precise location tracking without the bulk of traditional GPS units. For instance, high-end digital cameras can benefit from geotagging capabilities, allowing photographers to record the exact location where each photo was taken. This feature is particularly useful for travel photography and professional documentation.
However, it’s important to note that this GPS unit is not intended for mobile phones, as these already have a GPS system included in the System on Chip (SoC). Mobile phones integrate GPS functionality directly into their main processing units, making additional GPS modules unnecessary.
Potential for High-Tech Applications
While the official line is that the ORG4472 is designed for consumer electronics like digital cameras, the potential applications extend far beyond. Personally, I think it’s been designed for high-tech spy equipment and trackers. The minuscule size and low power consumption make it perfect for covert operations where discretion is key. Imagine a tiny GPS tracker embedded in a piece of jewelry or hidden within a vehicle for surveillance purposes. The possibilities are endless.
Moreover, the ORG4472 could revolutionize the Internet of Things (IoT) by providing precise location data for a myriad of connected devices. From smartwatches to fitness trackers, and even pet collars, this tiny GPS unit can enhance the functionality of various IoT gadgets. For example, a fitness tracker equipped with the ORG4472 could offer more accurate route mapping for runners and cyclists, while a pet collar with this GPS unit could help owners locate their pets with pinpoint accuracy.
The ORG4472’s low power consumption is another significant advantage. Drawing just 58 milliwatts of power, it can operate for extended periods without draining the device’s battery. This makes it ideal for applications where battery life is a critical concern, such as in wearable technology and remote sensors.
The ORG4472 by OriginGPS represents a significant leap forward in GPS technology. Its tiny size, low power consumption, and versatile applications make it a game-changer in various fields, from consumer electronics to high-tech surveillance and IoT devices. As technology continues to advance, we can expect to see even more innovative uses for this remarkable GPS unit.
Via CrunchGear
Latest Geeky Gadgets Deals
Disclosure: Some of our articles include affiliate links. If you buy something through one of these links, Geeky Gadgets may earn an affiliate commission. Learn about our Disclosure Policy.
