GPS coordinates
what3words addresses are a human-friendly way of giving the same information as 16 digit GPS coordinates:
51.520847, -0.19552100 ←→ /// filled.count.soap
They are easier to remember, and quicker and easier to say over the phone, or to enter into a device or navigation system by voice or text. what3words has error-prevention technology which helps users quickly identify and correct input mistakes.
Using GPS coordinates with what3words
GPS coordinates can be typed into the what3words app or online map at
what3words.com
to return a what3words address. To see the formats we accept, click
here
. You can also see the coordinates for any what3words address.
Developers can also use our API to convert between a what3words and GPS coordinates.
The British National Grid reference system (Ordnance Survey)
British National Grid references can be entered into the online map at
what3words.com
to return a what3words address.
To view the grid reference for a specific what3words address, click ‘Share’, then ‘Customise share settings’ and toggle on British National Grid. You can customise the format to show Eastings and Northings, or 6, 8 and 10-digit grid references. Now, whenever you click Share in the side panel, you’ll see the location’s grid reference in the preview box.
This functionality isn’t available in the what3words app.