Austin-based startup Tern AI has made a significant breakthrough in navigation technology, demonstrating a low-cost GPS alternative that uses map information and vehicle sensor data. The company's innovative approach eliminates the need for expensive sensors, making it a game-changer for industries reliant on GPS.

At SXSW, Tern AI exclusively demonstrated its technology to TechCrunch, showcasing its ability to derive a vehicle's position from nothing – no triangulation, no satellites, no WiFi, and no external signals. The company's system uses only map data and existing vehicle sensor information to provide accurate navigation.

The implications of this technology are far-reaching, particularly for companies that rely heavily on GPS, such as ride-hailing apps and delivery services. According to Tern AI's co-founder and president, Brett Harrison, these companies lose time, money, and gas every time their drivers have to double back due to faulty GPS positioning. Moreover, critical systems like aviation, disaster response, and precision farming also rely on GPS, making Tern AI's alternative a vital development.

The U.S. government has already signaled its interest in prioritizing alternatives to GPS, with President Donald Trump signing an executive order to reduce reliance on a single source of positioning, navigation, and timing (PNT) services. Tern AI's technology aligns with this goal, offering a scalable and cost-effective solution that can be integrated into vehicle models from 2009 onwards.

The demonstration at SXSW involved connecting a 2019 Honda Civic to an iPhone via Bluetooth, allowing the Tern application to pull in data from the vehicle's existing sensors. The system was able to reach full convergence from a cold start in roughly 10 minutes, although Harrison noted that it usually takes around one to two minutes when it has a starting point. The system's ability to localize vehicles in areas where GPS struggles, such as parking garages, tunnels, and mountains, is a significant advantage.

Tern AI's system also offers improved privacy and security features, as it does not emit any external signals and is a closed-loop system. This means that users' locations cannot be tracked by external parties, a significant concern in today's data-driven world.

The startup's technology is built to scale, with Harrison emphasizing that it can be implemented within the infotainment system of vehicles, making it a simple software download. This scalability makes Tern AI an attractive solution for automakers, mobile phone manufacturers, and other companies that rely on GPS.

Tern AI is open to growing the company, but also exploring acquisition opportunities. The startup has already received a contract award from the U.S. Department of Transportation and is exploring possibilities with the government. With its innovative technology and growing interest from industry players, Tern AI is poised to make a significant impact in the navigation space.

In a world where GPS is increasingly vulnerable to spoofing and interference, Tern AI's breakthrough technology offers a timely and innovative solution. As the company continues to develop and refine its system, it is likely to play a critical role in shaping the future of navigation and positioning.