Is GPS signal dependant on mobile signal

wongataa

oldagetraveller wrote: »

However, if you have a satnav that has a "traffic" function, that either needs a mobile phone data link via a suitable app or a mobile sim built into the satnav.

No they don't. They just need to be able to utilise the traffic data broadcast via radio signals.

Mishomeister

Andy_L wrote: »

Has you phone had a software update, coincidentally about the same time as changing providers? My recent series of updates have knackered the GPS performance of my phone.

This is a good question. But not sure how to check this.


I have also noticed that my wifes phone when she tried to switrch her Google Maps GPS had the same issue which suggest it is not the phone itself that is broken.
So either the problem is with the Giffgaff or the software.

tonyh66

Mishomeister wrote: »

This is a good question. But not sure how to check this.


I have also noticed that my wifes phone when she tried to switrch her Google Maps GPS had the same issue which suggest it is not the phone itself that is broken.
So either the problem is with the Giffgaff or the software.

as has been said before GOOGLE MAPS NEEDS MOBILE DATA so if you have no signal you have no google maps. (unless you download the map to the phone at home before you set out)

Nebulous2

tonyh66 wrote: »

as has been said before GOOGLE MAPS NEEDS MOBILE DATA so if you have no signal you have no google maps. (unless you download the map to the phone at home before you set out)

And they offer that option automatically now. If I set a route at home, while still connected to wifi, google maps says something like 'this route has a spotty connection, do you want to download maps to fill the gaps now?"

AdrianC

Nebulous2 wrote: »

And they offer that option automatically now. If I set a route at home, while still connected to wifi, google maps says something like 'this route has a spotty connection, do you want to download maps to fill the gaps now?"

But you can't start navigating without a data connection.

Nebulous2

AdrianC wrote: »

But you can't start navigating without a data connection.

I never said you could - all I said was it encourages me to download any maps I need before I leave home. I have a data connection, with more data than I'm likely to need. You've got me thinking though.

I think a key word there is start. It also depends what you mean by a data connection? I don't think it needs mobile data.

I just disconnected my 4g, entered a nearby address, started the navigation and walked along the street. After I lost my wifi I continued to get both visual and spoken directions.


Edit: This says you can use it offline - as long as the maps are downloaded. Nothing about having to start online.