IIn recent years, mobile phones have become the Swiss knives of digital devices getting better and better at doing more and more things: whether it's taking pictures or playing your music collection. In 2008, the big feature which is being rolled out on many high-end phones is GPS which allows your phone to track your exact location on a map.

What is GPS?

GPS stands for Global Positioning System and is basically a group of satellites which send signals which can be picked up by a GPS receiver. The receiver can use those signals to calculate your location on a map down to around 5-10 metres. What's more, as you move around, the receiver will be able to track your changing position.

GPS is available for free to anyone who has a GPS receiver though certain value-added services like navigation can cost more. GPS receivers come mainly in two forms: standalone units and mobile phones with GPS. Since the latter are more easily available in India we will focus on them.

Text: NS Sawaikar
Illustrations: Uttam Ghosh

Also see: Is the Apple iPhone 3G for you?

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