Magellan Gps 315 Instructional Video

Are our handheld GPS systems in peril of going the way of the betamax? Let's take a look.

Ok, here comes a huge spoiler: I don't think handheld GPS systems are going anywhere. Smartphones are astounding and have their place. I think building GPS receivers into them is a good idea provided it may be done cheaply, and when the price point is good sufficient I'll probably get a phone that has a GPS built in as well. That said, it'll never to a complete degree replace my standalone GPS.

The reason is that they'll carry out two dissimilar functions. Its kind of like cameras, we all have them in our phones now, but did that stop us from also purchasing standalone cameras? For most, the answer is no. There are surely times when I don't have my camera with me that I'll want to snap a quick pic, just like there are times when I won't have my GPS with me and I'll want to grab a great deal of quick directions or record a location. However, if I know I'm going to be shooting a lot of pictures I'm taking my camera with me, just like if I know I'm going to be out in the woods relying on a GPS for directions I'm going to take my GPS with me.

A lot of the smartphone momentum is based around vendors capitalizing on the tough economic times, and there is surely going to be a market for persons that don't want to shell out for handheld GPS systems when they may kill two birds with one stone by buying one built into their phone. However, that does not by any means integrate the vast majority of persons who buy a standalone GPS. I just cannot foresee a time when geocachers, hunters, fishermen, etc do not want the features that a handheld provides.

You also have to consider ergonomic factors. To return to the camera analogy, you are inherent going to be competent to get a control layout that is more optimal for the specific task when you are dealing with a committed device. Since it doesn't have to worry in regards to being employed for everything from texting to making calls to recording video, your committed GPS is always going to have a more delighting control layout and more spectacular screen.

To recap, yes smartphones will be adding in GPS and numerous of us will use them. No, this won't kill off committed handheld GPS systems, they are here to stay!