how smartphone obtains its geographical postiion = GPS + WPS (wifi positioning system)

buildings blocking gps signal wifi positioning sysystems use databases of wifi APs (independently maintained by various internate companies liek google, apple, microsoft) each db contains info abt milliosn of wifi APs including each AP’s SSID + estimation of its geo location

tri-laterization

indoor localization determine a device’s location with a building relative to known locations

using cell tower triangulation (3 towers) determine a phone location to within an area of about 3/4 square mile