Why do we need a cell network to use our gps?

[darklide]

Is there any gps program that doesn't need a cell network?

Its rather annoying as where you actually need a gps like google maps you need a network which means roaming charges.

 

[james515]

the maps are not stored on the phone so you need that connection for map updates. i believe DeLorme or TomTom has an app where its stored on your phone/ sd card, but its NOT free

 

[novox77]

To clarify, the OP is referring to navigation apps. There are plenty of apps that utilize the phone's GPS without needing cell data. Runkeeper, MyTracks, etc. These can plot your location and route and save the data on your phone. Later, you can upload to a server via cell data at your leisure.

 

[Deleted User]

The new Google maps update now allows downloads in advance if selected in options

 

[John Redcorn]

The new Google maps update now allows downloads in advance if selected in options

Does google navigation use that same data/cache as maps? that's pretty sweet if so.

What about the actual place lookup and routing computing though? if you're in bfe with no signal and want to find a gas station or mcdonalds is that data in the map cache? is the computing of what roads/turns to take and make able to be done with no connection?

/sdcard/android/data/com.google.android.apps.maps/cache? that it?

 

[takeshi]

Why do we need a cell network to use our gps?

Your GPS receiver doesn't care. Your GPS apps may or may not. It really depends on the specific GPS app you're talking about.

Is there any gps program that doesn't need a cell network?

In addition to those mentioned above: CoPilot, Navigon, among others. Keep in mind that "GPS" is very vague. I'm assuming you mean a nav app for use while driving based on the context of your post. That's just one of many uses of GPS. If you're looking for such an app it really doesn't help if people suggest GPS tracking apps, geocaching apps, backcountry hiking apps, etc.

The new Google maps update now allows downloads in advance if selected in options

Read the OP again. OP wants to avoid data roaming charges. Some people (like me) aren't willing to put up with the hassles of precaching.

What about the actual place lookup and routing computing though? if you're in bfe with no signal and want to find a gas station or mcdonalds is that data in the map cache? is the computing of what roads/turns to take and make able to be done with no connection?

That's the other problem with relying on the Google Maps Nav cache. If you want locally stored maps then use a GPS nav app that is designed as such. The GMN cache is really only designed to address temporary loss of data connectivity.