Android 15 Improves Indoor Navigation with Wi-Fi Ranging
Android 15 introduces a significant upgrade in indoor navigation by integrating support for Wi-Fi Ranging, based on the IEEE 802.11az protocol. This technology uses Fine Time Measurement (FTM) to measure the time it takes for Wi-Fi signals to travel between a device and nearby access points, improving accuracy to within 0.4 meters. This is a substantial leap from the previous Wi-Fi RTT (Round Trip Time) feature, which offered location accuracy between 1-2 meters.
The implementation of Wi-Fi Ranging in Android 15 offers various benefits over older methods:
- Higher Accuracy: Reduces the margin of error to less than half a meter, compared to earlier techniques that were accurate only up to 10-15 meters.
- Broader Device Compatibility: The new standard can work with the emerging 6GHz Wi-Fi band, enhancing performance across supported devices.
- Enhanced Security: Leveraging the latest Wi-Fi protocols, Wi-Fi Ranging provides better security during location tracking.
However, to utilize this feature, both Android devices and Wi-Fi access points need to support the 802.11az standard. Many newer Android phones with chips like Qualcomm’s FastConnect 7900 are already compatible, but widespread adoption will depend on upgrades in Wi-Fi routers and access points as well
Dolby Atmos Audio Issues on Galaxy S23 with One UI 6.1.1 Update
After the rollout of the One UI 6.1.1 update, many Galaxy S23 users reported a noticeable decline in audio quality, particularly with Dolby Atmos settings. Users described the audio as “tinny” and lacking the previous clarity and punch. Initially, Samsung denied the issue, but later acknowledged it following numerous complaints.
The problem seems to stem from an update in the Dolby Atmos library, shifting from version 3.10 to 3.12. This change was intended to enhance features like 360 Audio, but it inadvertently affected the default audio output, leading to dissatisfaction among users accustomed to previous sound profiles.
Samsung confirmed that it is working with Dolby to address the problem and plans to release an updated library. Users expected a fix in the November 2024 security update, but it did not resolve the issue. As of now, there is no clear timeline for when a patch will be released, but Samsung is aware and actively working on a solution
Conclusion
Android 15’s Wi-Fi Ranging is set to revolutionize indoor navigation by providing unprecedented accuracy. As more devices and networks adopt the 802.11az standard, users can expect smoother, more reliable indoor positioning. On the other hand, Samsung’s Galaxy S23 is dealing with a temporary setback in audio quality due to updates in the Dolby Atmos library, but a resolution is anticipated soon as software teams collaborate to fix the issue.
This dual update reflects the ongoing efforts by tech companies to enhance user experiences through software innovation, though sometimes at the cost of temporary issues that require further adjustments.
