Seiko Epson Corporation ("Epson") has developed an ultra-sensitive, ultra-compact global positioning system (GPS) module to meet high demand from manufacturers of mobile phones and other handsets with GPS functionality. Volume shipment of the S4E19863 series has already begun. This product has been used for some time in all GPS-capable models of FOMA903i series phones released by NTT DoCoMo, Inc., contributing to the company's services using GPS.

Featuring a remarkably broad detection range capable of identifying both strong outdoor signals and weak indoor signals, the new module far outstrips the levels of sensitivity found in conventional GPS technology. The module also supports the three 3GPP-compliant positioning modes (MS-Based, MS-Assisted and Autonomous). Moreover, thanks to clever use of space-saving technology the S4E19863 series is the world's smallest GPS module2 (7 mm x 6 mm x 1.28 mm), making it ideal for applications with limited component space in mobile phones.

"Using its cutting-edge technology and extensive experience with ultra-sensitive GPS solutions, Epson helped us to achieve outstanding positioning performance in a compact package for our FOMA903i series phones. I have high hopes for Epson's future technology development in the field of GPS solutions." Kiyohito Nagata, Vice President and Managing Director, Product Department, NTT DoCoMo, Inc.