u-blox Launches Firmware-Upgradeable GNSS Products with 50% Power Reduction

u-blox has launched the UBX-M10150-KB chip and MAX-M10N module, representing the first M10-platform GNSS hardware designed with firmware upgradeability. Both products run the new SPG 5.30 firmware, which introduces Low Energy Accurate Positioning (LEAP) technology that reduces power consumption by up to 50 percent while maintaining superior positioning accuracy. This development is particularly significant for battery-powered devices, as the new chip offers ultra-low power consumption of just 8 mW in continuous tracking mode.

The new products are ideally suited for vehicle, people, and pet tracking applications, as well as livestock monitoring and wearable devices. By extending the capabilities of the M10 family beyond previous ROM-based products, these solutions address the growing demand for energy-efficient positioning technologies in the Internet of Things market. The SPG 5.30 firmware provides a comprehensive set of technical enhancements, with LEAP replacing cyclic tracking mode to achieve substantial energy savings through features including external LNA power cycling.

Additional firmware capabilities include RTCM corrections input that supports positioning accuracy down to the sub-meter level, making these products suitable for applications requiring precise location data. The firmware also adds data logging and geo-fencing functions, enabling more autonomous tracking and monitoring directly on the device without constant external communication. This combination of features represents a significant advancement in GNSS technology for resource-constrained applications.

The firmware upgradeability aspect provides a future-proof solution for customers, allowing them to benefit from ongoing performance enhancements and new functionality throughout the product lifecycle. Both products include lifetime access to AssistNow Predictive Orbits and Live Orbits, which accelerate start-up times and improve positioning performance when using small antennas or operating in weak-signal environments. For developers, the EVK-M102 evaluation kit and u-center 2 software are available to simplify the design-in process. The UBX-M10150-KB and MAX-M10N, running SPG 5.30 firmware, are available as engineering samples with full availability scheduled for later in October 2025.