All smartphones sold in the EU must now support Galileo, the European satellite navigation system, as mandated by new regulations effective this spring. By October 31, 2023, 1,615 models are confirmed compatible. Galileo offers improved location accuracy compared to GPS, enhancing the EU’s strategic autonomy. Users can check their device’s compatibility through an official list and use apps like GPSTest for real-time satellite information. Additionally, other devices, such as smartwatches, also support Galileo, expanding its use beyond smartphones.
In Europe, all smartphones must now support Galileo, the European satellite navigation system. As of this spring, a new regulation mandates that all new devices sold within the EU have the capability to connect to European satellites. Essentially, every new mobile phone is compatible with Galileo.
What about older smartphone models? To clarify this, there is an official resource that lists devices compatible with the European GPS system. As of October 31, 2023, a total of 1,615 models in Europe are confirmed to work with Galileo. You can find the complete list further down in this article.
Understanding Galileo: Europe’s Answer to GPS
Galileo is essentially a modernized European counterpart to GPS, offering enhanced accuracy. While GPS can pinpoint your location within ten meters, Galileo boasts metric-level precision, allowing it to determine your exact position on the sidewalk rather than just on the street.
This advancement gives the European Union significant strategic autonomy. Previously reliant on the U.S.-controlled GPS, the EU launched Galileo, which has been operational since late 2016 and currently serves millions of users worldwide. By September 2019, the system had already reached a milestone of one billion devices utilizing its services.
How and When Can We Access Galileo?
The commercial services of Galileo have been available since December 2016, allowing users to take advantage of this European satellite constellation for over seven years. The service continues to improve with the addition of new satellites, and the next generation of Galileo is already in the design stage.
How to Check if Your Smartphone Works with Galileo
If you’re curious about whether your smartphone can receive Galileo signals, you can consult the compatibility list. Additionally, you might want to dive deeper into how your device interacts with this satellite network and others, like GPS, due to their interoperability.
Several mobile applications can provide insights into Galileo’s functionality. The European Union recommends using GPSTest, which shows real-time information on which satellites your device is connected to, including sorting options for constellation, signal strength, and frequencies. Galileo satellites are marked with a European flag for easy identification.
The Comprehensive List of Android and iPhone Models Compatible with Galileo
Manufacturers typically do not prioritize highlighting compatibility with Galileo, focusing instead on other features. However, there is an official website, UseGalileo.eu, dedicated to helping users identify which products can connect to this satellite network.
As of February 27, 2025, the European Space Agency predicts that 2,040 devices sold in Europe will be capable of geolocation via Galileo. While some manufacturers offer a wide range of compatible smartphones, others may feature only one or two models. Fortunately, all recent smartphone releases are equipped with this positioning service.
To find a specific model, the easiest method is to search directly on the website. If you’re using Windows, press “Ctrl” and “F” to open a search box. Most web browsers also have a built-in search feature.
Is Your Smartphone Compatible with Galileo?
Checking Compatibility
In general, all new smartphones launched since 2022 are required to support Galileo. This regulation ensures that manufacturers comply with the European satellite positioning system when introducing devices to the market. Many brands have been proactive in this regard for years.
Does Your Phone Utilize GPS or Galileo?
Chances are, your smartphone employs both Galileo and GPS, in addition to other satellite positioning systems. This is especially true for devices less than three years old, as all new mobiles sold in Europe since 2022 must be compatible with Galileo. Phones often combine multiple positioning systems to ensure the most accurate location by receiving signals from various constellations.
Identifying Compatible Devices
If your phone appears on the following list, it confirms compatibility with Galileo.
Additional Devices That Support Galileo
Smartphones aren’t the only devices that can utilize this positioning service. Various public equipment can also connect to the satellite system, including wearable accessories like smartwatches and fitness trackers. For instance, several models of Apple Watch and a significant portion of Garmin products are included.
Furthermore, the inventory of Galileo-compatible products spans seven categories, some of which cater more to professionals than everyday users. These categories encompass usage scenarios on the road, at sea, on trains, in the air, on farms, for mapping, or during emergencies. The website offers sorting tools to help refine your search.
(Updated with the latest list information in early December)