04-05-2010, 05:53 AM

I dont think the Apple specs at the homepage are clear about this.
Do all models have GPS but the 3G version supports assisted GPS?

04-05-2010, 06:14 AM

No. Only the 3G model has GPS.

The Wifi only model can do things like Google Maps and basic (static) location services using wifi triangulation (ie the same way my 2G iPhone does it), but cannot do real GPS.

04-05-2010, 08:35 AM

No GPS but it does have the Maps app, which benefits a lot from the larger screen size.

04-05-2010, 11:30 AM

Hi, guys and gals! New to the i-world (never owned an iPod or iPhone before), but I'm thinking of maybe getting an iPad. I wanted something that would work for RSS, podcasts, and as an e-book reader for commuting, basic GPS and music player while on my motorcycle (small size could fit in the map pocket of a tank bag), and basic browsing / skype for whenever. NetFlix and the rest is just gravy.

So, quick questions - Will the Maps app work with real- or at least near-time position updating? Will that always require that I be in range of a 3g signal? Can I play audio in the background while having the Maps app up on the screen?

04-05-2010, 01:11 PM

Originally Posted by LMychajluk

Hi, guys and gals! New to the i-world (never owned an iPod or iPhone before), but I'm thinking of maybe getting an iPad. I wanted something that would work for RSS, podcasts, and as an e-book reader for commuting, basic GPS and music player while on my motorcycle (small size could fit in the map pocket of a tank bag), and basic browsing / skype for whenever. NetFlix and the rest is just gravy.

So, quick questions - Will the Maps app work with real- or at least near-time position updating? Will that always require that I be in range of a 3g signal? Can I play audio in the background while having the Maps app up on the screen?

If you get the 3G model, it should give you near time position updating but for that, you need the 3G.

As for playing music while using Maps, I am pretty sure it can be done (at least I can do it on my iPhone and from what I know you can do it on an iPad. I will double check at my local BestBuy store for you).

04-05-2010, 03:14 PM

Thanks. I'm hoping I can get to BB or maybe even the Apple Store in the next few days to play with one.

04-05-2010, 03:15 PM

Originally Posted by LMychajluk

Thanks. I'm hoping I can get to BB or maybe even the Apple Store in the next few days to play with one.

You should make the time

04-05-2010, 10:50 PM

Originally Posted by chas_m

No. Only the 3G model has GPS.

The Wifi only model can do things like Google Maps and basic (static) location services using wifi triangulation (ie the same way my 2G iPhone does it), but cannot do real GPS.

Incorrect. Neither has true GPS, but the 3G model will get you approximate location with cell tower triangulation. It'll get kind of close, but nowhere nearGPS percition. And apps with GPS location assist won't work with it.

04-05-2010, 11:26 PM

I do believe if you get the data plan you can get GPS. I just logged onto Google Earth and it asked to use my current location. I'm using wifi and it put me on my street. I can see my house with a blue pin by it. With a data plan it should track your movements like the iPhone.

Sorry, I've been corrected by the person above me.

04-05-2010, 11:59 PM

It's just inaccurate to say that it has GPS. That leads people to think it actually has dedicated GPS hardware that connects with global positioning satellites when it doesn't.

As far as the location assist in apps, the iPhone apps I've loaded onto mine so far have not worked with their locating features. It may work for some, in which case I am wrong, but I just haven't seen it work yet.