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- Most smartphones have full GPS capability onboard, so navigation is a natural use for that. All that is needed to get going is an app that handles the mapping and navigation. There are many options for all smartphone platforms, and my preferred app for navigation is available on both iOS and Android.
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- Overview
- Best for iOS Users: Apple Maps
- Best for Android Users: Google Maps
- Best Social GPS App: Waze
- Best for Local Info: MapQuest
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With GPS apps for your smartphone, there's no longer much need to buy a full-fledged GPS device. Most of these apps are free, and some of the lesser-known ones, like Waze and MapQuest, have unique features worth your consideration.
Apple Maps got off to a difficult start when it first launched in 2012, with many inaccuracies and inconsistencies in its database. Apple has since invested huge resources in its default GPS navigation app, as has since edged out Google as the primary service for iOS devices.
Unlike Google Maps, it's not available for Android OS smartphones and other devices. Its features include a Look Around function for exploring cities in a 3D environment; real-time public transit data; and spoken turn-by-turn directions that rely on landmarks and objects instead of just street names.
You can use Siri to receive directions while driving. Voice control is much safer than typing destinations into your phone.
You can bookmark destinations and plan trips that you can send to other Apple devices when logged into iCloud.
Download For:
iOS
Google pioneered the free GPS navigation category with Google Maps. The company still maintains a massive and costly project to keep the service accurate and up-to-date. With a large fleet of vehicles, backpacks, and specialized GPS cameras and devices, Google is constantly verifying and updating the "ground truth" of its mapping app. You can now even pay for parking with the Google Maps app by tapping Pay for Parking next to your destination.
In combination with Google's massive database of businesses and points-of-interest, Google Maps augments the standard GPS app with all the perks of a search engine. It's got spoken-street-name directions, street view images, real-time traffic detection and avoidance, among other features. Google also sustains accurate and up-to-date walking, public transit, and bicycling directions, including bike lanes and bike-friendly roads. Users can contribute to Google Maps by adding new and missing roads, uploading photos, and writing reviews of local businesses.
Google Maps comes free Android devices and may be downloaded for free from the Apple App Store.
Download For:
iOS
Android
Waze allows users to provide each other with real-time travel information, including traffic, obstacles, accidents, and other notifications. It was purchased by Google in 2013 but still maintains its own turn-by-turn navigation app.
Unlike most apps, it provides reasons for traffic delays, as described by other drivers. This allows you to make better-informed decisions about the route you're taking.
Waze is also suited for socially-minded drivers who want to hear the thoughts of others as they travel. It has a nice feature that lets you automatically send real-time updates of your estimated time of arrival to friends via social media.
Download For:
iOS
Android
MapQuest is a solid, accurate turn-by-turn navigation app with a few nifty perks. In addition to the usual spoken driving directions, it includes speed limit displays, live traffic cam feeds, and search integration.
The app is free, but you can remove the ads and add some more features with a $3.99 in-app purchase. Everything you should expect from a decent GPS app is available, including real-time traffic detection and avoidance, and the ability to automatically send an estimated time of arrival to friends and family.
Download For:
iOS
- Fred Zahradnik
- Route4Me – Beyond Just a Typical GPS Navigation App. An ordinary smartphone GPS app could be helpful if you just need navigation and no optimization.
- Google Maps. The Google Maps app is undisputedly the most loved free navigation app among individuals going on road trips and field service businesses.
- Waze. Waze is another popular GPS mapping app that Google acquired in 2013 and further developed as a community-based GPS app. The Waze navigation app has several valuable features.
- Apple Maps – Best Navigation App for iOS. Apple Maps comes preloaded on all Apple devices. Apple released this popular iPhone navigation app in 2012. But, the app was heavily criticized after its launch, making Apple CEO Tim Cook publicly apologize.
Nov 21, 2023 · The iPhone 14 Pro Max is one of the best Apple devices with A-GPS, GLONASS, GALILEO, and QZSS. It has a 6.7-inch screen that covers almost the entire surface of the mobile and a lightweight design with textured matte glass finishes. So far, it is the toughest glass an iPhone has ever been made of.
- Google Maps. If you are using an Android smartphone, you will find Google Maps pre-installed on your device. It is a user-friendly and reliable GPS app that receives regular updates.
- Apple Maps. Apple Maps is a built-in GPS application for iOS users. It is free to use and has many good features. With a simple interface, it makes it easier for users to use this app.
- Waze. If you are looking for a free but reliable GPS app, download Waze. It is compatible with both iOS and Android devices and provides real-time data.
- Sygic GPS Navigation & Maps. The main benefit of using this app is that it offers several view options. You can choose between a 3D display and a top-down 2D view.
Jan 7, 2017 · In our best GPS and navigation apps for Android list, we ask, who needs paper maps when you have this fine selection for your phone? Best Android navigation and route planner apps Buying Guide
Mar 28, 2023 · 19 Top GPS Apps for Navigation and Traffic. No matter the mode of transportation, here are a few GPS apps that help users navigate everything from busy highways to trails that are off the beaten path. Google Maps Google Maps is the most downloaded navigation app in the United States. | Image: Shutterstock. Price: Free