How do I use iPhone Maps for GPS?
One of the most anticipated features on the iPhone 3G was the inclusion of GPS systems technology. Apple's inclusion of GPS (Global Positioning System) in its portable phones allows users to get directions anywhere in the world.
Regardless of whether you're driving or walking around an unfamiliar city, the 3G will help you find out your current location and how to get to your destination.
First of all, before we list the top 10 GPS apps for the iPhone, let's go through using the built-in Maps app.
Step 1 Tap “Settings” and go to “General.Check that "Location Services" is turned on.
Step 2 Go back to the “Home” screen and tap “Maps." Tap the scope icon on the bottom left corner of the screen. Click OK if the iPhone asks if Maps can use your current location. The GPS in your iPhone now knows your location.
Step 3 Tap the “Directions” tab on the bottom of the screen. Put in the address of where you are wanting to go in the "End" field. Tap “Route.”
Step 4 At the top of the screen, select your mode of transportation: Car, Bus, or Walking. You should see a green pushpin marking your current location on the map. Your destination is marked by a red pushpin. The top message should show how many miles to your destination and approximate time to get there.
Step 5 Tap the “Start” button on the upper left corner of the screen. Maps will give you step-by-step instructions on where to head next. Your movements will be tracked by the iPhone GPS.
Top 10 iPhone GPS apps
Besides Maps, there are many other applications now available in the iTunes app store that utilize the GPS on the iPhone.
1. MobileNavigator: Navigon’s official GPS application for iPhone. It is one of the more powerful GPS applications ever built for the iPhone. Gives you all you need to get out on the road with confidence.
2. TomTom for iPhone: TomTom for iPhone has a lot of potential. While not all there, TomTom have done a great job of replicating their software on the iPhone.
3. Mobile Maps America: Mobile Maps America turns your iPhone into a super GPS and provides you with turn by turn directions. The 3-dimensional maps are amazing and the directions clear.
4. iGo My Way: iGo My Way one of the elite GPS apps for iPhone. Excellent 3D graphics and there's no need to pay monthly fees. European and other versions are available as well.
5. G-Map U.S. East: G-Map U.S. East is a cool GPS solution for iPhone that helps you get directions and navigate your way through your city without too much trouble. The maps are as sharp as my Garmin GPS unit.
6. G-Map U.S. West: similar to G-Map East, but it’s made for the Western states. If you live in California and around that area, you should be using G-Map U.S. West.
7. AT&T Navigator: AT&T Navigator is an AT&T GPS service that provides you with voice directions while you are on the go. Costs $9.99/month. Wish my phone bill covered the cost of this!
8. MotionX: MotionX is one of the best GPS app on iPhone. It also integrates Facebook as well. Great unit for most outdoor activities including hiking, biking and hunting. Has been a top-seller for months it seems.
9. SayNDrive: SayNDrive is a navigation application for iPhone that lets you say your destination and get your directions fast. Essentially a voice-GPS app for iPhone.
10. iWant Pro: iWant Pro is a cool POI finder that lets you find restaurants, shopping places, and more all around you. If you are outdoors a lot of the time then you'll love iWant Pro.
There are lots more apps that use the GPS functionality on the iPhone including UrbanSpoon, Where and HearPlanet plus lots more. In fact, the iPhone is really opening people’s eyes to the many uses of GPS systems. Know where you're going - all the time! It’s no wonder that so many fleets around America are relying on GPS navigation and taking advantage of the growing trend towards SaaS web-based telematics!
