GPS vs GLONASS vs Galileo Explained
By Mokshith Naik
Developer & Creator of Online Speedometer
Testing Note by Mokshith: While analyzing satellite diagnostic logs on modern Android and iOS devices, I discovered that modern smartphones don't rely on just American GPS — they combine signals from US, Russian, and European satellite constellations simultaneously.
The Three Major Satellite Constellations
When people say "GPS", they are usually referring to global navigation satellite systems (GNSS). Today's smartphones listen to three major global networks:
- GPS (United States): The pioneer system operating since 1978 with ~31 active satellites.
- GLONASS (Russia): Russia's constellation optimized for high-latitude northern coverage.
- Galileo (European Union): The newest civilian system offering sub-meter precision accuracy.
By combining signals from up to 30 visible satellites, your smartphone provides lightning-fast speed lock times to our online speedometer.
About the Author
Mokshith Naik — Creator of Online Speedometer
Mokshith is the developer behind Online Speedometer. He builds privacy-focused web tools and personally tests GPS speed metrics across cycling, driving, and running routes.
✉️ Contact Author: mokshithnaik67@gmail.com