Geolocation refers to the technique of using digital information processed via the internet to determine the physical location of a person or device.
Geolocation is more reliable in dense urban settings where GPS signals can be interrupted by large buildings.
The technique relies on signals from Wi-Fi networks, cell phone towers, and Bluetooth beacons to determine the physical location of a device or person, whereas GPS uses GPS satellites for the same purpose.
The data is used to provide location-based services, including directions, maps, real-time traffic updates, and nearby points of interest. But it is also frequently used in social media and advertising. Additionally, it’s a powerful tool for law enforcement and security.
Geolocation is common in mobile and web applications.
For example, ride-sharing services use geolocation to match passengers with nearby drivers, social media platforms use it to suggest friends or events based on a user’s location, and advertisers use it to deliver targeted ads based on a user’s location and interests.
Synonym(s):
- Geo-positioning
- Location-based services (LBS)