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Nexus 7, full GPS/navigation

S

spinedoc

Member
I'm really considering the Nexus 7 as it looks very slick overall. The only issue I have is with the lack of connectivity. I currently have an ipad3 with ATT cellular connectivity, but I've been thinking of getting a smaller device for a while now. The ipad mini is not on my radar due to the pricing, I can't see paying close to 500 bucks for a 16gb cellular model with yesterdays specs so Apple lost me as a customer.

One of the main things I use my ipad3 for is Navigation. I use Navigon and it works pretty nicely. What are my options with the Nexus 7 since it doesn't have cellular connection, but from what I understand it does have a GPS chip? Are there navigation programs which would allow me to download all the maps and not have to connect to cellular and allow me to navigate only using the GPS? Is this practical, or will the maps take up too much space?
 
The N7 has GPS on board and doesn't require an internet connection for the GPS to function. Google Maps/Navigation requires a connection to download map data. You can download a certain amount of map data to the N7 which works but I have read that you won;t be able to calculate a route with out a connection.

There are apps available that download all map data to the N7 and can be used completely stand alone. The one I use is called CoPilot Live. There is a free version and a paid version. I believe the free version doesn't give spoken turn-by-turn directions.
 
that's awesome info TYVM. Heading out to staples to check one out in person. I'm hoping it fits into a loose jeans pocket. things change when you have to carry a 7 month old baby lol.
 
Google also announced an HSPA+ Nexus 7 which would bypass this, costs $299. Or you could tether your phone to it if you wanted while navigating. (This is what I do).
 
AntimonyER said:
Google also announced an HSPA+ Nexus 7 which would bypass this, costs $299. Or you could tether your phone to it if you wanted while navigating. (This is what I do).
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Hmm this sounds like what I want, any eta on release date? The only thing missing is a Stylus, I'm actually also considering a note 2.
 
You actually don't have to tether the entire time :) once you dl the directions, you can disable the tether. After a distance, the map will lose detail, but your route and turn by turn directions will still work. It also caches a 'snapshot' of the places you need to take a turn/exit so you will not get confused.
 
An app called sygic will download the entire map data to your device. It uses tomtom maps and cost $30 but a. 7Day trial.
 
AntimonyER said:
Google also announced an HSPA+ Nexus 7 which would bypass this, costs $299. Or you could tether your phone to it if you wanted while navigating. (This is what I do).
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This won't totally eliminate the issue because once you lose cell reception you're in the same boat. That's why I prefer a solution that is totally stand alone.

BTW, that is $299 PLUS monthly data plan cost.
 
I used Copilot live USA on my N7 today on my rounds. I have full North American Maps downloaded on the device. Doesn't get traffic unless tethered but has a huge POI database. I found specific banks, restaurants, golf courses, drug stores, etc. nearby. Pretty much like using a standalone Personal Navigation Device. Pretty much on a par with the Nav unit built into my other car. Large screen so easy to read and I like the visuals. Very customizable. Maybe doesn't route quite as well as Google Nav. but it keeps you on main roads and is very dependable. N7 locked on very quickly. Used a sandbag dashmount with Arkon clamp. Come on someone, make us a car dock!
 
spinedoc said:
that's awesome info TYVM. Heading out to staples to check one out in person. I'm hoping it fits into a loose jeans pocket. things change when you have to carry a 7 month old baby lol.
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Yes, fits very easily! I often carry both my N7 & S3 in the same jeans pockets. My S3 even has a case around it that causes it to be a tad thicker. If you go with the N7, grab a screen protector eventually. My screen starting getting some light micro scratches, nothing major. These were likely due to me sliding it in/out of my backpack once I arrive at work. (I carry it in jeans, but keep it in backpack @ work to avoid a passer-by permanently "borrowing" it)
 
sandozer said:
Recently did a 2000 mile road trip from Colorado to Montana, used NAVFREE, its brilliant just download states you require, Free! :D
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I attempted to use NavFree to navigate to a friend's house in a small village near Huddersfield (in the UK), and NavFree didn't have my friend's street in it's database. Having played with GPS on various phones and tablets my conclusion is that for navigating in a car it's worth spending the (relatively little) extra to buy a TomTom or Garmin.

I do use Google Maps on my Galaxy Nexus when I'm walking, but that's for occasional checks to see where I am rather than turn by turn navigation.
 
spinedoc said:
Anyone know if ATT is getting one and when?
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You can order from the Play store on release day (today) and add it to your current plan upon arrival. Just bring it into an AT&T store (bring your box too so they can scan the bar codes - makes it go a little faster).
 
GiftedPlacebo said:
You can order from the Play store on release day (today) and add it to your current plan upon arrival. Just bring it into an AT&T store (bring your box too so they can scan the bar codes - makes it go a little faster).
Click to expand...

Yeah I just ordered one. I'm hoping it's a microSIM so I can just take my old one out of my ipad and pop it in.
 
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