GPS Cell Phones

Iridium Nera Telecommunications Ltd

Thuraya U.S. Digital Communications

Guide to GPS Cell Phones

Your satellite GPS phone knows where you are
By Michael Berman

When you think of global positioning systems (GPS), do visions of maps and directions flash through your mind? Combine a GPS cell phone's capability to give you accurate directions with its ability to pinpoint your exact location, and you end up with a lot more than just an atlas in your pocket.

All of the GPS cell phones and GPS satellite phones have a locator built into them, which allows emergency personnel to pinpoint your location within a few hundred feet. In addition to this, they open up a whole new vista of options for you.

1. You can subscribe to a GPS navigation service, depending upon who your GPS cell phone service provider is.
2. You can purchase maps and GPS software for your GPS cell phone or satellite phone.
3. You can use the GPS locator built into the GPS cell phones to pinpoint locations of employees or other people.
4. You can dial 911 on your GPS cell phone to connect to E911 service, enabling police and other emergency personnel to pinpoint your location.

Action Steps

The best contacts and resources to help you get it done

Purchase GPS cell phones or satellite phones All of the major cell phone service providers offer GPS cell phones or satellite phone, but there can be a big difference in coverage areas, which could hamper the effectiveness of a GPS cell phone or satellite GPS phone.

I recommend:  See if Sprint, Verizon, and AT&T offer coverage in your area before purchasing a global satellite phone from them.

Compare GPS service providers Find a GPS service provider that is compatible with your phone. Compare prices, accuracy of maps and other services.

I recommend:  All of the service providers charge a monthly fee for turn-by-turn directions. A few of the better ones include TeleNav, Nextel, and Smart2Go. Smart2Go also requires a separate Bluetooth receiver and a memory card.

Consider purchasing GPS services from your cell phone provider Many cell phone providers offer their own GPS navigation services. Subscribing to these services ensures compatibility with the service provider, but you still need to ensure that your GPS satellite cell phone is compatible.

I recommend:  Check with your service provider to find out which GPS services it offers. Some of the more popular services include VZNavigator from Verizon, Sprint Navigation and other GPS services from Nextel, and TeleNav from AT&T.

Download free maps Many websites offer free maps for specific GPS phones or so-called smartphones, such as those manufactured by Palm (Treo and Centro) and Research in Motion (Blackberry).

I recommend:  Check out Google Maps, Mapquest and Boost Mobile for free maps and downloadable software. Make sure your GPS phone is compatible before downloading anything from these services.

Tips & Tactics

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• Compare monthly fees and services from various providers before subscribing to a GPS service.
• Check to see if you need additional equipment or services to make the system operational. Some services require a Bluetooth connection, a memory card or an external antenna.