Does Cloud Cover Affect iPhone Location Service?

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Level 1

8 points

Does Cloud Cover Affect iPhone Location Service?

I have an iPhone 4 with iOS 6.0.1 which I am under the assumption I left on my desk at work. I logged into iCloud and fired up the location feature to verify that my phone was indeed at work-- where it shows almost .25 miles from my building on a ramp to the highway-- there is cloud cover high up tonight and I am wondering if that can affect the location of the device? I retraced my steps and am almost 100% it's still on my desk and not on the highway. Usually this is pretty accurate with the cell service-- is it possible for the location to be this far off?

iPhone 4, iOS 6.0.1, Verizon Service

Posted on Dec 31, 2012 8:16 PM

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Answer 1

roaminggnome

Level 10

106,401 points

Dec 31, 2012 9:18 PM in response to prm510

Cloud cover would have far less impact on the location accuracy than being inside of a building. The building blocks the signal far more efffectively that the clouds.

Since your iphone cannot see the GPS satellites from inside a building, it is likely using registered wi-fi addressesto locate.

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Answer 2

prm510 Author

Level 1

8 points

Jan 1, 2013 7:56 AM in response to roaminggnome

Interesting.. the last time I left the phone on my desk it pinpointed exactly where it was in the building; I just find it odd it's showing on a highway exit ramp! I suppose I will find out today when I go and get it 😝

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Answer 3

roaminggnome

Level 10

106,401 points

Jan 1, 2013 8:11 AM in response to prm510

Without a clear view to the sky, it is not very accurate, as GPS requires a clear view. It was coincidence that it appeared in that particular location.

It will only be able to give an approximate location if it cannot see the GPS satellites.

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