Nigerian Researcher At Massachusetts Institute Breaks World Records, Develops Prototype For Smallest GPS Tracker
Nigerian researcher at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), United States of America, Oluwatobi “Tobi” Oyinlola, has officially set a Guinness World Record (GWR) for developing a smallest GPS tracking prototype.
According to the GWR on Thursday, Oyinlola, who is currently conducting research at MIT, created a GPS device measuring just 22.93 mm by 11.92 mm (0.90 x 0.46 inches), smaller than a human thumbprint, according WGR).
His groundbreaking innovation, which combines ultra-compact size with powerful functionality, has captured the attention of the global tech and science community, as its functionality is said to be applicable to small and large scale systems, from medical microchips, to animal tracking monitors, and for everyday use.
Reflecting on his journey, Oyinlola shared that his fascination with technology began at the age of 13, when his secondary school in Nigeria received a donation of computers from engineer and alumnus Seyi Makinde, as that was the first time he ever laid hands on a computer.
“From the moment I booted it up, I was absolutely captivated,” he told Guinness World Records.
“I remember spending hours after class tinkering with basic programs and exploring every part of the system just to understand how it all worked.
“That early exposure ignited an endless curiosity in me and set me on the path that led to where I am today.”
Oyinlola has spent nearly 20 years exploring how science and technology can be used to solve real-world challenges.
He said he is especially passionate about innovations that intersect with the Internet of Things (IoT), artificial intelligence, and urban data.
“I love that with science and technology you can have an idea in your mind and then actually bring it to life – it’s like turning imagination into reality through innovation,” he said.
“It’s not just about theory; it’s about building solutions with your own hands and constantly learning new things along the way.”
A graduate of the University of Rwanda, Oyinlola previously pioneered Nigeria’s first pay-as-you-go solar energy systems.
His environmental work earned him accolades as one of the Most Influential Young Nigerians in both 2018 and 2019.
He has also been recognized globally for his contributions to smart cities, renewable energy, and tech accessibility.
“When it comes to my inventions, I’ve always had a clear mission: to change the world by tackling real-world, global issues,” said Tobi.
“I want to create technologies that solve problems and improve everyday life for people around the globe.
“Whether it’s improving access to technology in underserved communities or designing devices that save lives, I see innovation as a way to make a positive impact.
“Ultimately, I hope each invention I develop can improve lives and increase access to technology, making daily tasks easier, enhancing safety, or connecting people, while inspiring others to view technology as a force for good.”
The idea for the miniature GPS tracker came out of a need for a compact, low-power tracking solution that could be embedded into smaller systems.
Oyinlola noticed that existing GPS devices were too bulky, consumed too much power, or added unnecessary weight, limitations that rendered them unsuitable for next-generation applications.
He said, “I realized that if we wanted to embed GPS functionality into cutting-edge wearables, medical devices, or tiny sensors, we needed to dramatically shrink the technology.”
“I was inspired by the endless possibilities a tiny GPS unit could unlock. Imagine being able to track wildlife with a tag practically invisible to the animal, or equipping personal safety devices with a GPS that’s nearly undetectable.”
Oyinlola’s prototype features a custom-printed circuit board, an onboard microcontroller, embedded antenna, and Bluetooth connectivity, all without requiring any external antenna.
The device can effectively receive GPS signals, log location data, and transmit it via Bluetooth.
“My goal was to create a compact GPS device that integrates an embedded microcontroller with bluetooth capabilities and an onboard antenna, all without needing any external antenna for it to work,” Tobi said in his Guinness World Records application.
“The idea was to build something that could serve as a standalone prototype, yet be easily scaled or adapted into a larger system.”
Initially, he viewed the project as a personal challenge as he noted, “At first, it was just a personal challenge.
“But once I realized how small and functional the device actually was, I thought, why not take it a step further and attempt a world record?”
He developed, designed, and produced his device in Cambridge, Massachusetts, and had the product reviewed by two independent engineers and an architect to confirm its functionality.
Featuring a custom printed circuit board and an embedded antenna, Oyinlola’s creation can effectively receive GPS signals and log location data, and even stream that data over bluetooth.
On April 27, 2025, that ambition was realized when Guinness World Records officially recognized the device as the world’s smallest GPS tracking prototype.
For Oyinlola, the recognition is not just a personal milestone but a testament to what is possible when passion, innovation, and purpose align.
He said, “Honestly, it feels incredible and a bit surreal to know I have created something record-breaking.”
“I’m extremely proud of the achievement and deeply honoured to have my work recognized by Guinness World Records.
“It’s the kind of thing you dream about as a kid, and it really highlighted how far I’ve come from that curious 13-year-old in the computer lab.
“More than anything, this milestone motivates me to keep pushing the boundaries of technology. Breaking a record isn’t a finish line for me, it’s a starting point.
“It proves that with dedication and creativity, we can achieve what once seemed impossible.”
He added, “I plan to carry this momentum forward, continuing to research, learn, and invent new solutions to challenging problems.
“In the end, I hope this achievement not only fuels my own drive to innovate but also inspires others to pursue their bold ideas in STEM.”
According to him, “With passion and perseverance, we can turn even the boldest ideas into reality.”
