FocalPoint and STMicroelectronics Collaboration
FocalPoint, a UK-based software development company, has announced a strategic partnership with STMicroelectronics to enhance Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS) technology specifically tailored for the automotive industry. This collaboration aims to provide a cutting-edge solution that improves navigation performance by increasing the reliability and precision of GNSS in complex environments, which is essential as vehicles move toward autonomy.
Enhancing GNSS Technology for Automotive Use
The partnership will see FocalPoint's S-GNSS® Auto software integrated with STMicroelectronics' Teseo devices. Known for their high performance and multi-constellation support, Teseo chips will fortify the capabilities of the S-GNSS® Auto software. This integration ensures that automotive manufacturers can rely on superior navigation data even in urban canyons and dense forest areas where GNSS signal interruptions are common.
FocalPoint's S-GNSS® Auto employs a proprietary technology called Supercorrelation™, designed to transform GNSS data into a dependable sensor, making it optimally effective in challenging situations. By delivering an easy firmware update for the Teseo devices, this solution is both cost-effective and user-friendly, making it accessible for numerous automotive applications.
A Growing Trend Towards Automation
As vehicles increasingly rely on advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS), enhanced GNSS becomes pivotal. Accurate positioning data is integral to ensuring the safety and reliability of autonomous vehicles. In recent announcements, Scott Pomerantz, the CEO of FocalPoint, emphasized the importance of this collaboration: “The combination of ST's Teseo chips and our S-GNSS® Auto software presents a robust solution for automakers seeking to advance their ADAS capabilities.”
In real-world applications, testing has shown that the integrated solution can improve GNSS measurement accuracy by up to four times and positional accuracy by three times, specifically in challenging multi-path environments. This leap in performance underscores the reliance on practical testing to achieve tangible results.
Industry Recognition and Future Prospects
FocalPoint has already made significant strides in the industry, gaining visibility with an investment from GM Ventures and a collaboration with General Motors. This ongoing development and demand growth indicates a rising need for advanced positioning technology in the automotive sector. The integration of STMicroelectronics’ hardware with FocalPoint’s software presents a major step forward in this endeavour, setting new benchmarks for navigation precision.
Luca Celant, General Manager at STMicroelectronics' Digital Audio and Signal Solutions division, expressed confidence in this alliance, noting that it helps automakers progress their automation initiatives while establishing new standards in navigation accuracy and reliability.
Moving forward, the demand for enhanced GNSS solutions like the one developed by FocalPoint and STMicroelectronics will likely escalate as the automotive industry embraces more sophisticated technologies. The partnership opens the door for further innovations in vehicle navigation and localization technologies, benefitting millions of users who depend on precise location data.
For those interested in learning more about the detailed results of this innovative partnership, contact FocalPoint directly for access to extensive reports providing all relevant outcomes from these pioneering developments.
About FocalPoint
Based in Cambridge, FocalPoint specializes in next-generation GNSS solutions for automotive, wearable, and smartphone applications. Their patented technology addresses the critical need for accuracy and reliability in positioning systems, particularly for the evolving demands of the automotive industry. The company has been recognized with several awards, demonstrating its commitment to innovation in the field.
For more details, visit
focalpointpositioning.com.