Ericsson and MediaTek Achieve Decimeter-Level Accuracy With 3GPP-Based GNSS RTK on Commercial 5G Network

Ericsson and MediaTek Achieve Decimeter-Level Accuracy With 3GPP-Based GNSS RTK on Commercial 5G Network

(IN BRIEF) Ericsson and MediaTek have completed a world-first end-to-end test of high-precision outdoor positioning using 3GPP-based GNSS Real-Time Kinematic (RTK) technology over a commercial 5G network, achieving stable sub-30 cm outdoor accuracy with a handset’s built-in antenna. The test integrated RTK correction data into 5G infrastructure through the LTE Positioning Protocol (LPP), using Ericsson’s 5G Core, Ericsson Network Location, 5G Advanced location services and Radio Access Network, while validation was performed with MediaTek’s latest 5G modem technology. The solution supports both Unicast and Broadcast GNSS RTK, enabling scalable delivery of high-precision positioning data through mechanisms including SUPL and PosSIBs, with encrypted broadcast available for authorised users. Ericsson and MediaTek said the technology can support applications such as autonomous vehicles, drones, industrial robots, manufacturing and transport by making precise location services more scalable, interoperable and accessible without proprietary systems or complex external hardware.

(PRESS RELEASE) STOCKHOLM, 18-Aug-2026 — /EuropaWire/ — Ericsson and MediaTek have successfully completed a world-first end-to-end test of high-precision outdoor positioning using standardised 3GPP technology for Global Navigation Satellite System Real-Time Kinematic, known as GNSS RTK.

The partners demonstrated positioning accuracy down to the ten-of-centimetres level directly over a commercial 5G network.

The test represents an important step for industrial, autonomous and mission-critical applications where precise location data is essential.

By integrating RTK correction data into 5G infrastructure through the LTE Positioning Protocol, or LPP, the solution removes the need for proprietary systems or complex external hardware to achieve high-precision positioning.

Key test highlights

The system delivered stable sub-30 cm outdoor accuracy, enabling potential applications in autonomous vehicles, drones and industrial robots operating in complex outdoor environments.

The test was carried out using the handset’s built-in antenna.

Ericsson noted that centimetre-level accuracy can be achieved when using a geodetic-grade antenna.

The solution is based on 3GPP Release 16 standards, supporting global scalability and interoperability between networks and devices.

Both Unicast and Broadcast GNSS RTK were tested end to end.

This enables the solution to switch between unicasting and broadcasting in busy areas, while using Unicast in lower-traffic areas or when connected to LTE.

For Unicast GNSS RTK, LPP messages are delivered through Secure User Plane Location, known as SUPL, which transmits data over standard IP connections.

For Broadcast GNSS RTK, data is distributed through Positioning System Information Blocks, known as PosSIBs.

This allows GNSS RTK information to be broadcast to all devices in a cell at the same time, supporting large-scale deployment and improved network resource efficiency.

The solution also includes security provisions.

Because broadcast data is open to all devices, 3GPP standards allow encrypted broadcast.

Only authorised subscribers receive the required decryption keys from the core network’s Access and Mobility Management Function, or AMF, to access the high-precision data.

Correction data and network support

The test supports two types of correction data.

The first is Observation State Representation, or OSR, which delivers direct corrections.

The second is State Space Representation, or SSR, a more advanced and scalable method that provides error information related to specific GNSS components.

The test was conducted using Ericsson 5G Core, including Ericsson Network Location and Ericsson’s recently introduced 5G Advanced location services offering.

It also used Ericsson’s Radio Access Network, enabling efficient distribution of OSR and SSR correction data through the network infrastructure.

Validation was carried out using MediaTek’s latest 5G modem technology.

The modem technology is capable of real-time processing of advanced GNSS corrections while supporting optimised power efficiency.

Johan Hultell, Head of Product RAN Software at Ericsson, described the achievement as a milestone for the 5G ecosystem.

He said Ericsson and MediaTek are making high-precision location more accessible to device makers and enterprises, helping accelerate use cases in manufacturing, transport and other sectors.

Dr HC Hwang, General Manager of Wireless Communication Systems and Partnerships at MediaTek, said the collaboration demonstrates how 5G Advanced technology can create new value for both consumers and enterprises.

He said MediaTek modems with integrated GNSS are ready to support advanced positioning services and help enable the next generation of intelligent devices.

About the technology

Traditional GNSS often provides accuracy at the level of several metres.

3GPP-based Real-Time Kinematic technology uses a network of reference stations to determine assistance data, which can then be distributed to devices at scale through the cellular network.

Devices use the assistance data to correct in real time for atmospheric signal delays and satellite errors.

This provides the level of precision required for digitalisation, spatial awareness and emerging industrial and autonomous applications.

Through the successful end-to-end test, Ericsson and MediaTek have demonstrated how commercial 5G networks can support high-precision outdoor positioning using standardised technology, creating a scalable foundation for future location-based services.

NOTES TO EDITORS:

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Ericsson 5G Advanced Location Services

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SOURCE: Ericsson