With the ever-increasing reach and capabilities of smart phones and their apps and the availability of unlimited data plans, I'm wondering if anyone here uses their smart phone in lieu of a dedicated GPS unit (like Garmin, Tomtom, etc.), especially on long-distance travels through areas that might be considered a bit off the beaten path (i.e. might have poor cell tower coverage)?
About 3+ years ago, I ran a side-by-side 'test' of a free Android app (can't recall which one atm) on my Sprint smart phone and my ancient Garmin GPS on a long drive between Ohio and Florida. The Garmin worked flawlessly whereas the smartphone seemed to encounter numerous areas that didn't seem to have any cell coverage.
In the interest of being frugal, I've held off investing any $, but it's becoming obvious that I will eventually need to do something to stay current with changes to the road system -- download new maps onto the Garmin, buy a new GPS, possibly switch to using my smart phone equipped with a good GPS app or ....?
Any suggestions?
omni
About 3+ years ago, I ran a side-by-side 'test' of a free Android app (can't recall which one atm) on my Sprint smart phone and my ancient Garmin GPS on a long drive between Ohio and Florida. The Garmin worked flawlessly whereas the smartphone seemed to encounter numerous areas that didn't seem to have any cell coverage.
In the interest of being frugal, I've held off investing any $, but it's becoming obvious that I will eventually need to do something to stay current with changes to the road system -- download new maps onto the Garmin, buy a new GPS, possibly switch to using my smart phone equipped with a good GPS app or ....?
Any suggestions?
omni
Last edited: