Apple has removed GLONASS support from the Apple Watch Ultra 4, according to the device’s technical specifications. The new model supports GPS, Galileo, QZSS, and BeiDou, while the previous Apple Watch Ultra 3 also supported GLONASS.
The change comes as Apple continues to use multi-frequency positioning on the Ultra lineup, giving the Ultra 4 access to multiple satellite navigation systems for location tracking.
Why Apple Removed GLONASS
GLONASS is Russia’s satellite navigation system and uses a different signaling architecture from the systems Apple Watch Ultra 4 continues to support.
Consumer devices typically receive only the L1 signal from GLONASS. That makes it less useful on hardware capable of using dual-frequency signals from other satellite systems for more accurate positioning.
GLONASS receivers also need to compensate for hardware timing differences for individual satellites. These additional corrections can contribute to positioning errors.
Apple has not explained why GLONASS was removed from the Ultra 4. The change could reduce processing requirements and potentially help improve positioning efficiency or battery life, although Apple has not confirmed either benefit.
Ultra 4 Still Supports Four Satellite Systems
The Apple Watch Ultra 4 supports four satellite navigation systems:
- GPS
- Galileo
- BeiDou
- QZSS
These systems use CDMA-based signaling and can support multiple frequencies, allowing the Ultra 4 to use more advanced positioning capabilities.
The Apple Watch Series 12 continues to support GLONASS, likely because its positioning hardware does not have the same dual-frequency capabilities as the Ultra 4.
Apple has not indicated that removing GLONASS will negatively affect location tracking on the Ultra 4. The new model continues to support four major satellite systems for navigation and outdoor activities.
