Navigation on a smartphone or a separate device? Which is better

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• Navigation on a smartphone or a separate device? Which is better

Does it make sense to buy car navigation in the era of smartphones? What does a dedicated device give us and what is missing in a phone? We have prepared a list of the most important functions that distinguish each of these devices. Thanks to this, you will know whether it is worth choosing a navigator or you just need an application for a smartphone.

Features of using GPS navigators.

Lifetime map updates - large GPS navigation manufacturers have long provided free access to the latest map updates for free. Many devices download files automatically as soon as they get into the Wi-Fi network coverage area, so you do not need to connect them to your computer every time. Radar cameras. It is enough to turn on the Internet distribution on your smartphone and you instantly get access to information about speed cameras and traffic jams. Updating the speed camera database in real time is an extremely valuable feature for all drivers, especially professional ones who travel hundreds of kilometers a day. Often, drivers receive a photo with a violation from a speed camera a few weeks later, without understanding when and where they exceeded the speed limit. Speed ​​camera warnings will help you stay alert. Traffic jam avoidance is an option that allows you to overcome longer routes through large cities without stress. We do not have to worry about getting stuck in a long traffic jam caused by rush hour or an accident. Having information about traffic jams, you can choose another route in advance. What we get in the kit. In the kit with navigation, we get very high-quality handles and cables for connecting to the cigarette lighter socket. If we want to use navigation on a smartphone, we need to buy these accessories separately, this requires additional costs of at least 500 UAH. Smartphone connection - unfortunately, not many navigations have this function. We recommend taking this into account when buying, because thanks to it we get a speakerphone that allows you to safely receive calls from your phone (hands free). Some car navigators also function as a video recorder or a rear view camera screen (after purchasing the appropriate accessories).

Features of GPS Applications in Smartphones

Many apps are free - Most of us already have a smartphone, and apps like Google Maps, Waze, etc. are free, so you don’t have to spend extra money to use navigation on your phone. Community of drivers and current notifications - the most popular navigation apps have such a large community of drivers that we don’t have to worry about whether the information about traffic jams or speed control is out of date. Waze, known to everyone, keeps you informed about police patrols, accidents, and road works thanks to messages from other users. We always have our phone - in our time,It is impossible to leave home without your smartphone. We would rather forget our house keys than our favorite phone. Multitasking - a smartphone can also be used as a navigation system for cyclists or while running. In addition, there are more and more applications designed for drivers, so the phone can also become, for example, an electronic service book or a diary of fuel, repair and maintenance costs. Screen quality - even cheap smartphones now have large and very high-quality screens. User reviews show that the screens used in cheaper GPS navigators leave much to be desired. They are illegible in the sun and less sensitive to touch, which interferes with control.

Result

As you can see, each device has its own features and functions, so you need to understand for yourself what exactly you want to get. In our opinion, GPS navigation is suitable for professional drivers or those who often travel abroad. Most devices will ensure their smooth operation in every country, current maps of the whole of Europe and, above all, no costs associated with internet access, as they work offline. Navigation also boasts a slower battery drain than a smartphone. Other users will certainly be satisfied with mobile apps. They will lead you to your destination, help you avoid traffic jams and report threats. They also do not create any additional costs (except for buying a phone holder and a car charger, which many drivers already have).help avoid traffic jams and warn of threats. They also do not create any additional costs (other than buying a phone holder and a car charger, which many drivers already have).help avoid traffic jams and warn of threats. They also do not create any additional costs (other than buying a phone holder and a car charger, which many drivers already have).