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IPad and GPS

I’m shopping for a new iPad. Does the latest generation of iPads still require the cellular option in order to have GPS functionality when not connected to Wi-Fi?

Posted on Feb 6, 2021 6:18 AM

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Posted on Feb 6, 2021 6:39 AM

Only WiFi & Cellular models of iPad have a built-in GPS receiver - as GPS functionality, whilst independent of Cellular, is an integral element of the Cellular chipset.


WiFi Only models of iPad are entirely dependent upon geographical lookup against a database of WiFi networks and public IP Address of the network to which to device is connected via WiFi. As such, without an active network connection, a WiFi Only device cannot determine its location.


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Question marked as Top-ranking reply

Feb 6, 2021 6:39 AM in response to Kamaloha

Only WiFi & Cellular models of iPad have a built-in GPS receiver - as GPS functionality, whilst independent of Cellular, is an integral element of the Cellular chipset.


WiFi Only models of iPad are entirely dependent upon geographical lookup against a database of WiFi networks and public IP Address of the network to which to device is connected via WiFi. As such, without an active network connection, a WiFi Only device cannot determine its location.


IPad and GPS

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