enablehighaccuracy

EnableHighAccuracy is a boolean option in web geolocation APIs that signals a request for more precise location data. It is commonly used with the Geolocation API methods getCurrentPosition and watchPosition. When set to true, the device or browser may use GPS hardware, augmented Wi-Fi positioning, cellular data, and other sensors to improve accuracy, potentially increasing power consumption and the time needed to obtain a fix. If the option is false or omitted, implementations may rely on less precise methods such as network-based positioning, which typically uses less battery power and may be faster.

The practical effect of enabling high accuracy varies by device, browser, and available hardware. Some environments can provide high-accuracy results, while others may not support GPS or may restrict access due to permissions. Users may notice higher battery usage and longer acquisition times when high accuracy is requested. Developers should implement sensible fallbacks and respect user settings and privacy.

Usage example in JavaScript: navigator.geolocation.getCurrentPosition(success, error, { enableHighAccuracy: true, timeout: 10000, maximumAge: 0 });

Security and privacy considerations are important, as higher accuracy can reveal more precise location information. Applications should request high accuracy only when necessary and handle location data with appropriate safeguards. Related concepts include the Geolocation API, GPS, Wi-Fi positioning, and permission handling.