The forces that represent two sides of the consumer-based GPS Tracking market are heating up with competition. And, it appears that the winner will be GPS enabled smartphones. Here’s why:
Portable is Preferred
When GPS navigation units hit the market, they were an instant hit with consumers. You were spoon-fed directions to your destination while enjoying some robust benefits in helping you choose restaurants, etc. Those are still very important features. But, now they are being out-flanked by the next generation: GPS enabled smartphones.
[caption id="attachment_3989" align="alignright" width="380" caption="GPS & Smartphones"]
Users are paying out big monthly fees for the privilege to be able to use these services. And, being able to carry the device with them is a huge advantage. And, one that the dedicated manufacturers might not be able to overcome unless they change their units so that they can work in both a vehicle and as a portable unit.
Security is a High Priority
Notice how many stories are popping up that are touting GPS enabled cell phones and how they have helped save a life? People are very interested in the safety aspect of GPS enabled cell phones. Kids are being tracked and so are elderly.
While security is one of the most popular features, there is also a security risk with GPS enabled smartphones: tracking of your location at any time that you have the GPS signal turned on. This allows those who can get your information to be able to see where you are at any given time (as long as your signal strength is high enough).
Most people are unaware of this risk, but the word is getting out. This is the reason that users should consider purchasing a separate, dedicated GPS Tracking device. They consume less power than smartphones (GPS enabled smartphones primary downfall is the speed at which the battery is drained by constant use).
Dedicated GPS Tracking devices can be hidden, too. These units are very small and can operate for days between charges.
It turns out that the best kept secret is a GPS Tracking device in addition to your smartphone. Use the smartphone for the things that it does the best. Then, keep your GPS device near at all times to help get the most out of safety features and benefits. You never know when it might come in handy, even if you still choose to use the GPS enabled features of your smartphones, you will have a backup, just in case.
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