What is the GPS accuracy of WHISTLE ™ trackers?
Last Update:Oct 25 2022 9:00pm • Est. Read Time:Est. Read Time: 2 MINThe accuracy of the WHISTLE™ devices will depend on many factors, including signal strength of both cellular and satellite connections, interference from tall metal buildings, thick tree coverage, or bodies of water, and whether or not there is a clear line of sight.
The blue circle around your pet's location, a.k.a. the uncertainty circle represents location accuracy. Your Safe Place has a green house icon directly in the middle of it and is different from the uncertainty circle. The uncertainty circle is a light blue circle that appears around your pet icon. It represents the accuracy of your pet's last known location.
The uncertainty circle may change in size depending on various factors:
1. Signal strength: The strength of the GPS and cellular signals will determine the accuracy of our GPS location updates. If the necessary signal is poor, it's likely the uncertainty circle around your pet's location will be larger.
2. Interference of heavy electronics/appliances: This could affect the location of your pet, since electronics can offset the tracker when trying to communicate with the network.
3. Clear line of sight: If your pet is in an area where the device is unable to have a clear line of vision to the network, communication may be obstructed. (For example: wooded areas, tall buildings, parking structures, etc.)
The uncertainty circle can be shown regardless of whether you are inside or outside the Safe Place, as long as you are out of power save mode. It's only visible if your tracker is having difficulty getting a precise location. If your tracker is able to communicate effectively, you won't see the uncertainty circle.
To make sure that your Whistle tracker is as accurate as possible with location information, it's important to make sure your tracker connects to WiFi at least every couple of days to download the latest GPS information.