The list of technological advances that have made our lives easier, if written, could probably make a full circle of the globe! However, GPS has undoubtedly earned a top position on that list. In an era where no one ever gets lost, where no store is left unfound and no street left in the dark, GPS has made our lives easier than we could have ever imagined. Although the technology is not new, its use has been different for every individual. 

Easy access

One of the best things about GPS has to be that it can function without an internet connection with its built-in system. Simply make sure to have all the maps downloaded and then, access them as you go.

Dedicated for each user

After having Google maps at the tips of our fingers, we often ignore installing dedicated GPS systems in our cars. Saved maps, while handy when out of network coverage or running low on data, are not permanent solutions, particularly on longer trips. Having a GPS installed in your car can prove to be handy and it frees your phone for other uses as well. Some newer advanced models also feature some safety functionality like forward-collision warnings and lane departure alerts aside from the usual navigation affair, making it an ideal upgrade.

Cheating traffic

With newer Maps apps and navigation systems, you not only get satellite navigation, but also traffic congestion alerts. Knowing which roads are packed and which ones are free (rarely any) gives commuters a great leg-up on the road. Although we might not be able to use the age-old “late due to traffic” excuse as much, getting to class or work faster definitely makes up for it.

Tracking system

With modern GPS being as accurate as they are, they are also useful for things other than navigation, such as tracking. It could be anything from keeping track of children, pets, and loves ones, to that brand new car you just rolled off the showroom floor in.

Weighing it out

With Google maps installed on our phones, dedicated GPS equipment has become somewhat of a relic, and is less often used. However, dedicated GPS systems still have advantages compared to their app-based solutions. For one, the accuracy of these systems is far greater than any app, and they are extremely dependable regardless of how far off the grid you are. They also manage to do all this without having to resort to cell network coverage or internet connection.

If you are someone who only goes to the nearest mall or park, then Google maps will serve you just fine. However, if your daily job requires travelling far, or in and out of town, then a dedicated GPS is more than a simple necessity, as it will provide you with the correct directions regardless of internet or mobile data, and let us not forget those safety features. It all boils down to individual requirements, but having a GPS system is never a bad idea.

Photo: Collected