Nigerian scientist at MIT develops record-breaking prototype for smallest GPS tracker

A Nigerian researcher at the prestigious Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) has created a prototype for a GPS tracking device that’s just 22.93 mm x 11.92 mm (0.90 x 0.46 in) – tinier than a thumbprint.

The invention has excited STEM lovers around the world, as its functionality is applicable to small and large scale systems, from medical microchips, to animal tracking monitors, and for everyday use.

Now, its creator has been awarded with a Guinness World Records title for smallest GPS tracking device (prototype) – and his record-setting work was praised by the President of Nigeria for showing the world that “Nigerian youth can!”

Oluwatobi “Tobi” Oyinlola (Nigeria) has been experimenting with science for two decades – as a young student in Nigeria, he first fell in love with technology around age 13, when his secondary school got a fully equipped computer lab thanks to a donation from alumnus and engineer Seyi Makinde. It was the first time Tobi 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.”

For Tobi, STEM has always provided the perfect blend between creativity and problem-solving. He quickly found fulfillment applying his technical skills to real-world issues, especially related to Internet of Things, AI, 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.”

After graduating from the University of Rwanda, Tobi pioneered the first pay-as-you-go solar energy systems in Nigeria, and that important environmental work contributed to his awards for Most Influential Young Nigerians in 2018 and 2019. He has since been recognized by other world leaders for his research into smart cities, gas solutions in Rwanda, and solar-powered workstations.

“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.”

Tobi with his fellow MIT researchers

He said he was motivated to create the smallest GPS tracking device after encountering difficulties in the current GPS market – the current devices were too bulky to fit into the smaller systems he envisioned, and they also consumed too much power or added extra weight.

“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,” said Tobi. “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.

“My goal was to develop a tracker so compact that it could be embedded in almost any object or device – from consumer electronics to critical safety gear – without compromising functionality.”

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, Tobi’s creation can effectively receive GPS signals and log location data, and even stream that data over 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.

“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?”

On 27 April, Tobi’s dream came true when Guinness World Records approved his prototype as the smallest in the world – and from that point onwards, he could celebrate.

He was commended for his work by Nigerian President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on social media, and was featured on TVC News Nigeria for his accomplishments.

“Honestly, it feels incredible – and a bit surreal – to know I’ve created something record-breaking,” said Tobi. “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.”

“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,” he continued.

“With passion and perseverance, we can turn even the boldest ideas into reality.”