How does GPS work on a Smartphone (AT&T Tilt)?
Does it download maps from GPS or from my internet connection? Does it cost to subscribe to the service? Any guide will be appriciated, Thanks!
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Actually, I purchased the Tilt myself because it does have a real GPS receiver built into it.
I write GPS software for a living and wanted my next cell phone to be Windows so that I could write applications for it.
The Tilt has a nice integrated GPS that does *not* rely on the cellular network for position information unless you want it to.
You do not need to subscribe to the monthly subscription service offered with your phone. That service *does* use the cellular network for location and is unnecessary with the Tilt.
Instead, I very highly recommend that you browse to maps.google.com and download their software directly to your Tilt. You'll be amazed at how good it is and it's free.
Have fun!
Most of the built-in smartphone GPS is done by cellular tower triangulating. Not the most accurate, but reasonably so as long as you're in an area with enough cell towers. It doesn't actually use the satellites.
For real GPS you need a receiver that actually looks at the GPS satellites. Bluetooth ones are common, I have a Pharos unit that works great. Then you can use GPS mapping applications like MS LiveSearch or Google Maps (both free). If you want a live moving map be sure you have an unlimited data plan. I like LiveSearch pretty well (link below)
Actually, I purchased the Tilt myself because it does have a real GPS receiver built into it.
I write GPS software for a living and wanted my next cell phone to be Windows so that I could write applications for it.
The Tilt has a nice integrated GPS that does *not* rely on the cellular network for position information unless you want it to.
You do not need to subscribe to the monthly subscription service offered with your phone. That service *does* use the cellular network for location and is unnecessary with the Tilt.
Instead, I very highly recommend that you browse to maps.google.com and download their software directly to your Tilt. You’ll be amazed at how good it is and it’s free.
Have fun!
Oops, should have mentioned great post! Waiting for your next post!