![\"google](\"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/ca\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/google-maps-my-maps-custom-map-example-2.jpg\"\/ "\\"google")
<\/p>\n<\/p>\n
Andy Walker \/ Android Authority<\/p>\n
Many Android apps ask for your current location<\/a> to show you more relevant results or help with directions, but most don\u2019t need your precise GPS coordinates to do the job. That\u2019s why Android offers two levels of location accuracy: Precise and Approximate. These options are controlled by two different Android permissions<\/a> and are intended for different kinds of apps.<\/p>\n If an app requests a precise location, Android provides the most accurate estimate it can, usually within 3 to 50 meters (about 10 to 164 feet). If an app requests an approximate location, however, Android will only provide a rough estimate of your device\u2019s location, which may only be accurate to within 3 square kilometers (about 1.2 square miles). This is why navigation apps<\/a> always require your device\u2019s precise location, while most other apps can function perfectly well with either.<\/p>\n Mishaal Rahman \/ Android Authority<\/p>\n Of course, many apps that don\u2019t need your precise location ask for it anyway, as there\u2019s little stopping them from doing so. You should be wary of these apps, as they might be collecting your location data for tracking purposes. In contrast, apps that only request your device\u2019s approximate location are less likely to be covertly tracking you, as the rough location estimate they receive is too broad to be useful for that purpose.<\/p>\n However, your approximate location can sometimes be enough for an app to pinpoint where you are. This is especially true in rural areas with low population density. In these zones, even a rough estimate can be revealing if there are only a few roads or buildings nearby. That rough estimate might be enough to identify your specific location, defeating the privacy benefit of the feature.<\/p>\n To solve this problem, Google has quietly introduced a new feature in Android 16<\/a> called \u201cdensity-based coarse locations.\u201d Here\u2019s how it works.<\/p>\n You\u2019re reading the Authority Insights Newsletter, a weekly newsletter that reveals some new facet of Android that hasn\u2019t been reported on anywhere else. If you\u2019re looking for the latest scoops, the hottest leaks, and breaking news on Google\u2019s Android operating system and other mobile tech topics, then we\u2019ve got you covered.<\/p>\n Subscribe here<\/a> to get this post delivered to your email inbox every Saturday.<\/p>\n Density-based coarse locations in Android 16<\/p>\n The problem with Android\u2019s old approach was that it always provided the same level of accuracy, whether you were in a bustling city or a small town. In densely populated areas, an approximate location places you among many other people, making it difficult to single you out. As I just explained, however, that same estimate could easily identify someone in a sparsely populated area. Android\u2019s approximate location is supposed to be privacy-friendly, but for people in rural areas, it often failed to deliver.<\/p>\n Android 16 fixes this by switching to density-based coarse locations. The system can now check the nearby population density. If it\u2019s low, it provides apps an even less precise estimate of your location. The goal is to make the \u201capproximate\u201d estimate feel just as anonymous in a sparse rural area as it does in a dense city.<\/p>\n Internally, Android 16 makes this happen by adding support for population density providers<\/a>. These are components, typically supplied by a system-level application, that determine the population density at a given location. They are intended to be implemented by system packages like Google Play Services<\/a>, which already provides the APIs that most apps use to get your location. Thus, it makes sense for Google Play Services to handle population density estimates as well. Still, Google designed this feature so that a phone manufacturer (OEM) could implement its own provider, which would be necessary in markets like China where Google\u2019s location services aren\u2019t available.<\/p>\n Although there\u2019s evidence that Google Play Services has added support for this feature, we don\u2019t know if it has actually rolled out. The developer flag for the feature is enabled on my Pixel devices, and the relevant code change<\/a> mentions it\u2019s intended for \u201cAndroid B\u201d (i.e., Android 16). The configuration that allows Android to use an external population density provider \u2014 such as the one from Google Play Services \u2014 is also enabled on my devices. However, that isn\u2019t enough to confirm the feature is actively being used.<\/p>\n One way to tell if this feature is live would be to travel to a sparsely populated area and check whether the approximate location estimate is even rougher than usual. The next time I\u2019m in such an area, I\u2019ll be sure to test this and report back, so stay tuned for the results!<\/p>\n Bluewave \u2013 A new, more accurate position engine<\/p>\n Another feature I\u2019ll be looking into is whether Google has improved location accuracy on Android. A source told me last year that Google was testing a more dependable positioning solution codenamed \u201cBluewave.\u201d This new engine supposedly combines raw data from global navigation satellite systems (GNSS) with correction data from base stations to calculate your position with greater accuracy. According to my source, this would make the Bluewave engine about 2.25 times more accurate.<\/p>\n I heard Google began testing Bluewave late last year with plans for a rollout earlier this year, but I\u2019m not sure if it ever launched. If it had gone live with the expected improvements, we likely would have heard about it by now. The silence suggests Google either hasn\u2019t released it or decided it wasn\u2019t worth a public announcement.<\/p>\n In any case, it\u2019s good to see Google working to make location tracking on Android both safer and more accurate. Location services are a fundamental benefit of a mobile device, but only when they\u2019re used responsibly. Hopefully, Google will encourage more apps to use approximate location instead of precise, as it\u2019s a more privacy-friendly option \u2014 especially with the new density-based coarse location feature in Android 16.<\/p>\n Want more?<\/p>\n Authority Insights is more than a newsletter \u2014 it\u2019s the hub for all our best content. If you care about Android, you won\u2019t want to miss any of our other exclusive reports<\/a>.<\/p>\n Don\u2019t have time to read them all? Subscribe to our Authority Insights Podcast<\/a> to hear me and my co-host, C. Scott Brown, break down our top stories of the week.<\/p>\n This week\u2019s top Authority Insights\n<\/p>\n The great Gemini takeover\n<\/p>\n <\/p>\n Goodbye, Assistant: Google prepares to make Gemini your only option<\/p>\n Related<\/p>\n Gemini Deep Research could soon get Drive and Gmail superpowers (APK teardown)<\/p>\n Related<\/p>\n Google’s Search Live may soon learn to respect boundaries<\/p>\n Related<\/p>\n Exclusive: Here’s your first look at Google Messages’ Nano Banana-powered Remix feature<\/p>\n Related<\/p>\n Google Photos’ Ask Photos could soon make searching memories even easier<\/p>\n Related<\/p>\n Google Messages will soon save you from opening web pages \u2014 here’s how Insights will work<\/p>\n Related<\/p>\n One UI 8.5’s notification summaries may not be to everyone’s delight<\/p>\n Related<\/p>\n New Google features that give you more control\n<\/p>\n <\/p>\n Google’s proposed Android changes won’t save sideloading<\/p>\n Related<\/p>\n Google’s working to give you more control over app data backups<\/p>\n Related<\/p>\n We found a hidden Google Wallet feature that could change the way you commute<\/p>\n Related<\/p>\n Google Maps could soon let you choose shady streets, literally (APK teardown)<\/p>\n Related<\/p>\n This upcoming Google Play Store change could make app reviews actually useful<\/p>\n Related<\/p>\n Android phones are getting even crazier\u2026\n<\/p>\n <\/p>\n I benchmarked my first Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 phone and it (almost) lives up to the hype<\/p>\n Related<\/p>\n Other top stories\n<\/p>\n A look at the highs, lows, and head-scratchers of Google\u2019s hardware\n<\/p>\n <\/p>\n The Pixel 10 Pro is the Pixel I’ve always wanted Google to make<\/p>\n Related<\/p>\n Two months later, the Pixel 10’s worst feature finally lived up to the hype<\/p>\n Related<\/p>\n The Pixel 10 Pro\u2019s new voice typing is wild, and it\u2019s changed how I use my phone<\/p>\n Related<\/p>\n Sorry, Pixel 9 and 10 owners: Google won’t be fixing that speakerphone issue<\/p>\n Related<\/p>\n Heads-up: A 10,000mAh Qi2 power bank will only charge your Pixel 10 once<\/p>\n Related<\/p>\n 5 smartwatches you should buy instead of the Google Pixel Watch 4<\/p>\n Related<\/p>\n Google\u2019s AI is making moves, but is it what users actually want?\n<\/p>\n <\/p>\n Goodbye, Google Assistant: Gemini is starting to roll out to Android Auto<\/p>\n Related<\/p>\n Apple is paying Google $1bn to upgrade Siri with… Gemini<\/p>\n Related<\/p>\n Forget Gemini, Google Home users just want the basics to work again<\/p>\n Related<\/p>\n A peek at some exciting new mobile hardware, from foldables to gaming\n<\/p>\n <\/p>\n Samsung Galaxy Z TriFold finally seen in detail, and it’s looking seriously impressive<\/p>\n Related<\/p>\n Why I skipped the Galaxy Z Fold 7 for a cheaper alternative<\/p>\n Related<\/p>\n The KONKR Pocket FIT is the affordable flagship gaming handheld of my dreams<\/p>\n Related<\/p>\n For the power users and debaters: a look under the OS hood.\n<\/p>\n <\/p>\n Google’s proposed Android changes won’t save sideloading<\/p>\n Related<\/p>\n Android inflates your phone’s signal strength, but for good reason (Updated)<\/p>\n Related<\/p>\n Liquid Glass proves that Android app design is still an afterthought<\/p>\n Related<\/p>\n Is your phone on the list? LineageOS adds Android 16 support for more devices<\/p>\n Related<\/p>\n Spruce up your home screen with these new customization tools and toys\n<\/p>\n <\/p>\n This new Android launcher is a minimalist’s dream come true<\/p>\n Related<\/p>\n Google’s new Pixel theme packs are nearly ready to customize your phone with one tap<\/p>\n Related<\/p>\n Your Pixel is hearing the call of the wild with these latest Google Sounds additions<\/p>\n Related<\/p>\n When corporate giants have problems, the shockwaves are felt by everyone\n<\/p>\n <\/p>\n Verizon is in crisis: Here’s what its new CEO must do to turn things around<\/p>\n Related<\/p>\n 3 more Google platforms lose Disney content as YouTube TV spat continues<\/p>\n Related<\/p>\n Android Auto\u2019s bumpy ride\n<\/p>\n <\/p>\n The 6 worst Android Auto problems that Google needs to fix<\/p>\n Related<\/p>\n![\"Android](\"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/ca\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/Android-approximate-and-precise-location-access-dialogs.jpg\"\/ "\\"Android")
<\/p>\n![\"Approximate](\"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/ca\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/Approximate-location-in-Osmand-map-app.png\"\/ "\\"Approximate")
Approximate location access cannot pinpoint one’s location in a densely populated area like a city.![\"Precise](\"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/ca\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/Precise-location-in-Osmand-map-app.png\"\/ "\\"Precise")
Precise location access can pinpoint one’s location in a densely populated area like a city.<\/p>\n![\"Google](\"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/ca\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/Google-Gemini-logo-on-smartphone-stock-photo-3.jpg\"\/ "\\"Google"){kind=logo}
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<\/a><\/p>\n![\"Gemini](\"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/ca\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/Gemini-Nano-Banana.jpg\"\/ "\\"Gemini")
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<\/a><\/p>\n![\"Google](\"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/ca\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/Google-Messages-SMS-stock-photo-1.jpg\"\/ "\\"Google")
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<\/a><\/p>\n![\"Sideloading](\"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/ca\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/Sideloading-an-Android-app-hero-image-scaled.jpg\"\/ "\\"Sideloading")
<\/a><\/p>\n![\"Backup](\"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/ca\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/Backup-by-Google-one-settings-page-on-smartphone-Stock-photo-1.jpg\"\/ "\\"Backup")
<\/a><\/p>\n![\"Google](\"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/ca\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/Google-Wallet-logo-on-smartphone-next-to-credit-cards-and-cash-Stock-photo-12.jpg\"\/ "\\"Google"){kind=logo}
<\/a><\/p>\n![\"Google](\"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/ca\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/Google-Maps-stock-photo-11.jpg\"\/ "\\"Google")
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<\/a><\/p>\n![\"Snapdragon](\"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/ca\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/Snapdragon-8-Elite-Gen-5-4-of-6.jpg\"\/ "\\"Snapdragon")
<\/a><\/p>\n![\"Someone](\"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/ca\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/pixel-10-pro-holding-back-of-phone-hero-2-scaled.jpg\"\/ "\\"pixel")
<\/a><\/p>\n![\"Magic](\"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/ca\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/magic-cue-settings-app-hero-oct-2025-scaled.jpg\"\/ "\\"magic")
<\/a><\/p>\n![\"Gboard](\"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/ca\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/PXL_20251019_212805640.MP_-scaled-e1760935731671.jpg\"\/ "\\"Gboard")
<\/a><\/p>\n![\"A](\"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/ca\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/google-pixel-10-pro-vs-pixel-9-pro-camera-comparison-hero-1-scaled.jpg\"\/ "\\"google")
<\/a><\/p>\n![\"ugreen](\"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/ca\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/ugreen-10000mah-qi2-25w-power-bank-inscription.jpg\"\/ "\\"ugreen")
<\/a><\/p>\n![\"google](\"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/ca\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/google-pixel-watch-4-granza-watchface-torvex-watchface-2.jpg\"\/ "\\"google")
<\/a><\/p>\n![\"Android](\"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/ca\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/Android-Auto-2024-Apps-List.jpg\"\/ "\\"Android")
<\/a><\/p>\n![\"iPhone](\"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/ca\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/iPhone-16e-new-siri-interface.jpg\"\/ "\\"iPhone")
<\/a><\/p>\n![\"Google](\"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/ca\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/Google-Nest-Audio-with-Gemini-models-demo.jpg\"\/ "\\"Google")
<\/a><\/p>\n![\"Samsung](\"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/ca\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/Samsung-Galaxy-Z-TriFold.jpg\"\/ "\\"Samsung")
<\/a><\/p>\n![\"Samsung](\"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/ca\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/Samsung-Galaxy-Z-Fold-6-5.jpg\"\/ "\\"Samsung")
<\/a><\/p>\n![\"KONKR](\"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/ca\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/KONKR-Pocket-FIT-Silksong-scaled.jpg\"\/ "\\"KONKR")
<\/a><\/p>\n<\/a><\/p>\n![\"Signal](\"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/ca\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/Signal-bars-LG-V60.jpg\"\/ "\\"Signal")
<\/a><\/p>\n![\"iOS](\"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/ca\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/iOS-26-Liquid-Glass-icons.jpg\"\/ "\\"iOS"){kind=icon}
<\/a><\/p>\n![\"Lineage](\"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/ca\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/Lineage-OS-Logo-on-OnePlus-8-Pro.jpg\"\/ "\\"Lineage"){kind=logo}
<\/a><\/p>\n![\"widgets](\"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/ca\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/widgets-on-an-android-phone-home-screen-scaled.jpg\"\/ "\\"widgets")
<\/a><\/p>\n![\"A](\"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/ca\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/Theme-Packs-App-2-scaled.jpg\"\/ "\\"Theme")
<\/a><\/p>\n![\"pixel](\"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/ca\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/pixel-sounds-app.jpg\"\/ "\\"pixel")
<\/a><\/p>\n![\"2024](\"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/ca\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/2024-Verizon-logo-on-smartpohone-Stock-photo-2.jpg\"\/ "\\"2024"){kind=logo}
<\/a><\/p>\n![\"fire](\"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/ca\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/fire-tv-disney-plus-scaled.jpg\"\/ "\\"fire")
<\/a><\/p>\n![\"android](\"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/ca\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/android-auto-launcher-home-screen-1.jpg\"\/ "\\"android")
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