Can I use GPS on the ipad (wireless & cellular) without paying for a data plan?

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Level 1

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Can I use GPS on the ipad (wireless & cellular) without paying for a data plan?

I want to get an iPad mini or iPad 4 and need to have GPS on it, I want to use GPS apps but do NOT want to pay for a cellular dataplan. I know for the ipad mini I need to buy the wirless + cellular model to get GPS but do I have to pay a monthly fee of any sort? I just want to use GPS without paying data plan fees.

Any help is appriciated, I am looking to buy an iPad mini or iPad 4 next month, I would rather the iPad mini but want to make sure GPS will work without fees (though I am aware that apps cost money, but that is different from a data plan!)

Thanks,

Sarah

Posted on Oct 24, 2012 7:25 AM

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Answer 1

Oct 24, 2012 8:01 AM in response to sanna1617

I believe it depends on the sat nav software you use. Most will require a cellular data plan to download maps and traffic info but some can be used offline or can preload routes.

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Answer 2

Philly_Phan

Level 7

20,725 points

Oct 24, 2012 8:03 AM in response to sanna1617

You do NOT need a data plan to access GPS.

GPS signals are separate from and completely unrelated to both the Internet and the cellular telephone network. GPS signals come directly from the GPS satellites. They provide signals that allow GPS receivers to calculate latitude and longitude information. Navigation software then takes that latitude/longitude info and converts it to land mass, roads, bridges, highways, buildings, etc.

Most navigation software stores the maps right in the iPad/iPod/iPhone but a disadvantage is that the maps must be periodically updated (perhaps once every two years). The Internet is not required to use the system but it is required to update the maps.

Some navigation software gets the maps from the Internet and requires an Internet connection to function but an advantage is that the maps are always up-to-date.

The WiFi+3G/4G iPad and the iPhone both have a GPS receiver. The WiFi-only iPad and the iPod do not and these devices require an accessory.

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