Another way GPS is used by people is in cell phones as cell phone locators. GPS technology has developed enough to start becoming smaller and smaller. This process is called miniaturization. And the result is the ability to have GPS receivers in smaller and smaller devices. Hence, their presence in cell phones.
Cell phone location works by the same method any other GPS device works to get their location. It pings the satellite in orbit and vice versa and then establishes its position on the Earth’s surface. Another way this is accomplished is by triangulating between the different cell towers to determine which one you’re closest to.
In order to do this, you first need to make sure your phone is GPS capable. The phones produced today are GPS equipped due to the aftermath of 9/11 and the needs of emergency personnel in such disasters.
(more…)