How reliable is the Apple Watch Ultra 2's GPS in rainy conditions

GPS Performance in Rainy Conditions

1. General Accuracy: The Apple Watch Ultra 2 is reported to have excellent GPS accuracy under normal conditions. It utilizes a dual-frequency GPS/GNSS chipset that helps filter out unreliable signals, which is beneficial in challenging environments like urban areas with tall buildings or dense forests[2].

2. Impact of Rain: While the watch is designed to withstand rain and has a water resistance rating of 100 meters, the presence of rain itself does not directly impair GPS functionality. However, heavy rain can affect visibility to satellites, potentially leading to less accurate readings. Users have noted that while the watch performs well in open areas, accuracy may decline under dense tree cover or near tall structures, which could be exacerbated by rainy conditions[2][3].

3. User Experiences: Some users have reported instances where the GPS readings were less reliable during adverse weather conditions, including rain. For example, inaccuracies of up to 5 meters have been observed in challenging environments like moderately dense woodlands[2]. Additionally, there are anecdotal reports of significant discrepancies in location tracking during specific instances, indicating that while the watch is generally reliable, it may experience occasional errors during heavy rain or when obstructed by environmental factors[2].

4. Water Resistance: The Apple Watch Ultra 2's water resistance allows it to be worn during activities in the rain without concern for damage. This feature ensures that while the watch remains functional, external conditions like heavy rainfall may still influence the GPS signal quality indirectly[1][4].

In summary, while the Apple Watch Ultra 2 is equipped with advanced GPS technology that performs well under most conditions, its accuracy can be impacted by environmental factors such as heavy rain and obstructions. Users can expect reliable performance in light rain but should be aware of potential inaccuracies during severe weather or in densely wooded areas.