In 2026, GNSS is no longer a background feature; it is becoming a regulated, and resilience-focused layer that connects consumer devices, mobility enforcement, industrial automation, and critical timing.

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A bottom-up view indicates that GNSS applications are growing in volume through smartphones and wearables, but are increasingly monetized through “precision + integrity” across drones, robotics, fleets, and timing networks.

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In an article published by EE Times Asia in 2021, I outlined how the high-precision GNSS market (capable of centimeter-level accuracy) was still considered niche but yielded high revenue. This was largely due to the complexity of integrating such modules into volume-critical applications like autonomous mobility. Key sectors included automotive (ADAS), drones (used in delivery, agriculture, and surveying), and AGVs in industrial settings (factories, warehouses, and ports).

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Between 2021 and now, significant progress has been made, particularly in automotive and drone applications. GNSS performance has improved through better satellite constellations, SBAS, and real-time correction services. Importantly, the emergence of Non-Terrestrial Networks (NTN) is becoming a game-changer.

NTN, including LEO satellites, provides additional connectivity and positioning redundancy, especially in areas with limited GNSS coverage. This is particularly valuable for V2X in ADAS systems and…

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In the dynamic field of vehicle management and asset tracking, the integration of IoT and GNSS technologies has become pivotal, especially in remote monitoring and preventing issues, stolen assets or fleet management. This collaboration forms a robust system, supplying control centers with comprehensive data sets.

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GNSS trackers and diverse Tracking Methods

In the domain of the IoT, ensuring accurate location data for devices is a critical aspect. While GNSS technology is widely used, it faces challenges in urban environments and within buildings due to line-of-sight restrictions. Additionally, prolonged use of GNSS can impact device battery life.

1. Cellular Location Services

To address GNSS limitations, cellular location services offer a viable alternative. By leveraging the known locations of cellular base stations, this method narrows down the position of an…

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Above the main supplier scheme of Non Terrestrial Network industry

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The reduction in the cost of NTN solutions, moves forward into a feasible and cost-effective option for ensuring communication everywhere. 5G standards advancements, satellite constellations, and 3GPP key players have performed a crucial role in driving technological progress in NTN systems.

One notable contributor to this surge is SpaceX's Starlink, showcasing NTN technologies that leverage space-based components to overcome the limitations of traditional networks. The critical mass reached by extensive satellite constellations, exemplified by Starlink, has established essential infrastructure for NTN services, likely aided by resolved regulatory approvals and heightened market demand.

Main Applications of NTN and comparison with GNSS positioning

NTN's applications span a multitude of industries, offering reliable connectivity in s…

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Above the representation of GNSS total shipment and related total revenue by main verticals

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GNSS general market introduction

The GNSS device market is witnessing dynamic trends across various sectors, reshaping the landscape of global positioning technologies. In consumer electronics, smartphones and smartwatches are embracing GNSS multi-frequency systems, indicating a broader push for enhanced location accuracy. While tablets and laptops show limited GNSS adoption, dedicated bike computers present a counter-trend, revealing a specialized market preference. In the prosumer drone market, growth faces a dual effect of saturation and regulatory frameworks, steering adoption at a measured pace. In consumer market applications other than smartwatches the presence of GNSS into modem is dominant (~87%). Regarding the total revenue, GNSS consumer industry represent only 35% of the total GNSS IC market.

The GNSS tracker market experiences unprecedented demand worldwide, driven by regulatory manda…

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