Millions of global navigation app users may be inputting addresses inefficiently, unaware that a simple change in entry order, rooted in GPS’s American origins, can save time.
Users commonly begin typing street names into applications like Google Maps or Waze, but these systems are often optimized for a different sequence. Starting with the building or door number first can lead to faster and more accurate results.
This optimization is due to the fundamental design of the Global Positioning System (GPS), which was developed in the United States. In the U.S., address numbers frequently precede street names.
An Instagram user, @alexandre_mainardi, recently highlighted this overlooked detail, suggesting that many users are inadvertently adopting a less efficient input method.
The GPS satellite navigation system was initially developed by the U.S. Department of Defense in the 1970s for military applications. It later became available for civilian use in the 1980s.
Beyond vehicle navigation, GPS technology now supports a wide range of applications, including vehicle tracking, maritime and aerial navigation, and even agricultural mapping for cultivation areas.
While entering the building number after selecting a street is straightforward on a smartphone, it can be less convenient when using in-car navigation systems, making the initial input method more critical.