GPS This

If there's a GPS in my phone for 911, how come I can't access it to use with map software on my phone?

Sent by Dan | 3:39 PM | 12-11-2007

I love how you can track your dog using GPS on collars (I'd hate to lose my furry friend). As a runner, I also like using GPS to track my runs - this helps me monitor speeds and distances. As a mom-to-be, I think I'll also be tempted to give my kids cell phones with GPS so that I can make sure they are okay in case of an emergency. If they want a phone anyway - might as well add the safety feature. The company I work for (TeleNav) develops GPS for cell phones (for adults though) - services like turn-by-turn navigation for driving and tracking services for businesses.

It will be fun and interesting to see how GPS technology advances in the next couple of years. With more and more cell phones now including GPS capabilities, I think you'll see some very creative services launching.

Sent by Mary Beth Lowell | 8:19 PM | 12-11-2007

Dan - Great question! The CDMA carriers (Sprint, Verizon) implemented GPS-based solutions to Wireless E911 call location. With the exception of the former Nextel (now part of Sprint), the wireless carriers traditionally did not expose the location capability to the consumer. Rather, the focus was on E911 call delivery. Recently that has changed and Sprint and Verizon now have GPS-based navigation applications. While this link is somewhat acronym-heavy, you may find it informative.
http://www.gpsworld.com/gpsworld/article/articleDetail.jsp?id=311439&pageID=1&sk=&date=

Sent by Jon | 12:31 AM | 12-12-2007

Jon - to your point, most of the wireless carriers have GPS navigation applications now. AT&T, TMobile, Alltel, etc. all have navigation along with Sprint and Verizon. They don't offer on all phones (yet) however but there will likely be a point in the future when all phones have this capability.

Sent by Mary Beth Lowell | 1:27 PM | 12-12-2007