Cell phone GPS receiving capabilities are present to someextent in most all new cell phones sold today. As a consequence of 9/11cell phone maufacturers are now required to install e911 (enhanced)capabilites so that during an emergency the phone’s GPS signal isactivated if the user calls 911. In addition to your personal safety,knowing how to use more of the cellphone GPS features is a powerful, exciting and fun tool tohave at your disposal.

But like most digital products there is a learning curve toendure and most likely you don’t have the time to become an expert.Here we will try to help identify some of the simpler featuresavailable and what you need to do to get them.

What You Need In Order To Experience The Power Of GPS:

First you will need a GPS enabled phone (should be listed inthe phone specifications) that has a complete GPS receiver. Lackingthat you can purchase a GPS receiver at most electronicstores and connect wirelessly (bluetooth) to your cell phone. Throughyour phone menu you can easily set up the bluetooth compatability.

Next you will need the capability to transmit GPS data andmaps. This is provided under your calling plan and should add anadditional $10 per month to your basic plan.

Finally you need a service plan or software that provides forthe mapping and directions. Some phones like Nokiahave a free mapping software (OVI) included. Most of your serviceproviders will provide some GPS software preloaded on the phones theysupport.

There are also a lot of free mapping software programs you candownload from the internet. If you choose this route because you wantto keep your older phone, pay attention to the operating system of thesoftware uses. There are a number of them (Windows Mobile,Android,iphone, etc.) If you download software that isplatform-independent and works on all operating systems, you won’t haveto worry if you change service providers. GPSsoftware for purchase will provide you with extensive arrayof additional features.

What A Cell Phone With GPS Can Do:

Location tracking is one of the greatest safety features.Parents and caregivers are able to track the phones location therebykeeping track of their loved ones. Businesses can track their employeesand you can track your friends. A word of caution. It is illegal totrack people without their permission and you can get arrested.

Another great advantage is being able to get turn-by-turndirections on your display or voice directions through your speaker.The directions you get are only going to be as good as the database ofmaps your phone has access to. Make sure your mapping supplier is usingup to date maps.

How about maps for hiking, biking, exploring, fishing tripsand other outdoor events that will be easierwith mapping and location based services. A company called TribleOutdoors has a good package for these outdoor activities.

There are many more features and fun things you can do withGPS. It was introduced to you in your car, but it is fast becoming acapability most people want with them all the time. That’s why cellphone GPS is becoming an essential technology.

Knowing where your child is will allow parents to rest easier.This is a short video that describes some of your options and the costsyou might expect