Ericsson and MediaTek have successfully completed a world-first end-to-end (e2e) test of high-precision outdoor positioning. Utilizing standardized 3GPP technology for Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS) Real-Time Kinematic (RTK), the partners demonstrated positioning accuracy down to a ten-of-centimeters directly over a commercial 5G network.

This test marks a breakthrough for industrial and autonomous applications where precise location data is essential for mission-critical applications. By integrating RTK correction data into the 5G infrastructure via the LTE Positioning Protocol (LPP), the solution eliminates the need for proprietary systems or complex external hardware to achieve centimeter-level precision.

Key highlights of the test

• Decimeter-level accuracy: The system delivered stable sub-30 cm outdoor accuracy, enabling the safe operation of autonomous vehicles, drones, and industrial robots in complex outdoor environments. Test performed with the handset’s built-in antenna (Note: with geodetic-grade antenna, centimeter-level accuracy can be achieved)
• Full 3GPP integration: The solution is based on 3GPP Release 16 standards, ensuring global scalability and interoperability between networks and devices.
  • Both Unicast and Broadcast tested e2e: The solution enables the possibility to switch between unicasting and broadcasting seamlessly in busy areas, while switching to Unicast in low traffic areas or when connected to LTE.
  • For Unicast GNSS RTK, LPP messages are delivered via Secure User Plane Location (SUPL), which transmits data over standard IP connections.
  • For Broadcast GNSS RTK, data is distributed via Positioning System Information Blocks (PosSIBs) which can be used to broadcast GNSS-RTK information to all devices in a cell simultaneously. This enables unlimited scale and better network resource efficiency
  • Security: Since broadcast data is open to all, 3GPP standards allow for encrypted broadcast. Only authorized subscribers receive the necessary decryption keys from the core network (AMF) to access the high-precision data.

Correction data methods: Two types of correction data are supported:

1. Observation State Representation (OSR): Delivers direct corrections.
2. State Space Representation (SSR): More advanced and scalable, providing errors related to specific GNSS components.

• Ericsson Network Support: The test was conducted using Ericsson’s 5G Core, including Ericsson Network Location (ENL) and its recently unveiled 5G Advanced location services offering, and Radio Access Network (RAN), efficiently distributing correction data (OSR/SSR) through the network infrastructure.
• MediaTek Device Performance: Validation was performed using MediaTek’s latest 5G modem technology, capable of real-time processing of advanced GNSS corrections with optimized power efficiency.

“This is a milestone for the 5G ecosystem,” says Johan Hultell, Head of Product RAN Software at Ericsson. “Together with MediaTek, we make high-precision location more accessible to device makers and enterprises, accelerating use in manufacturing, transport and beyond.”

"The collaboration with Ericsson demonstrates how 5G Advanced technology can unlock new value for consumers and enterprises alike," adds Dr. HC Hwang, General Manager of Wireless Communication Systems and Partnerships at MediaTek. "Our modems with integrated-GNSS are ready to support these advanced positioning services, paving the way for the next generation of intelligent devices."

About the technology

Traditional GNSS often has an accuracy of several meters. 3GPP-based Real-Time Kinematic (RTK) uses a network of reference stations to determine assistance data, which are distributed to devices via the cellular network with scale. The assistance data is used by the devices to correct in real-time for signal delays in the atmosphere and satellite errors, providing the extreme precision required for the digitalization and spatial awareness of today and onwards.