u-blox Launches SAM-M11N GNSS Module With Antenna
The 4.4-gram module integrates a GNSS receiver and patch antenna in one package built on the F11 platform.
Updated on Nov. 5, 2026 in Consumer Electronics
u-blox has launched the SAM-M11N, a GNSS module that combines a receiver and omnidirectional patch antenna in a single 15.5 × 15.5 × 5.3 mm package weighing 4.4 grams. First samples will be displayed at electronica 2026 in Munich from Nov. 10 to 13.
Why it matters
Integrating the antenna removes the need for a separate GNSS antenna and associated RF components, which lets developers focus on their products rather than RF design. The module's embedded flash also allows positioning firmware to be updated without hardware changes.
The SAM-M11N measures 15.5 × 15.5 × 5.3 mm and includes a high-gain 15.5 × 15.5 mm right-hand circularly polarized patch antenna. It supports update rates of 10 Hz with three constellations and 25 Hz with one, and operates on a 1.8 V to 3.6 V supply, though independent performance validation is not yet reported.
The players
u-blox
u-blox is a Swiss company that designs positioning and wireless communication modules for consumer, industrial and automotive applications.
The details
The module is pin compatible with the earlier SAM product line and is the first SAM antenna-integrated module to support LEAP mode. Unlike the ROM-based SAM-M10Q, it uses embedded flash memory, so developers can update positioning firmware.
Timeline
Nov. 5, 2026: u-blox announced the SAM-M11N module.
Nov. 10 to 13, 2026: First SAM-M11N samples on display at electronica 2026 in Munich.
The Tech Race
The SAM-M11N extends u-blox's SAM line, succeeding the ROM-based SAM-M10Q with an integrated antenna, a 1 mm thinner profile and 0.9 grams less weight. The move reflects a broader push in compact positioning hardware to reduce the RF design burden on device makers.
Developers building wearables, trackers or other small devices can add satellite positioning without designing a separate antenna, which could simplify product layouts. Lower power draw in LEAP mode may also extend battery life in location-tracking products.
The takeaway
Developers evaluating GNSS modules should weigh integrated antennas against their size, power and firmware-update needs. Checking the module's power profile and firmware options before design work begins can help avoid later rework.
What happens next
First SAM-M11N samples will be shown at electronica 2026 in Munich from Nov. 10 to 13, 2026.
Further reading
For more on compact devices, explore Consumer Electronics coverage.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Inside GNSS - Global Navigation Satellite Systems Engineering, Policy, and Design.
