GPS Tracking

[Budron]

Hi guys,

Been searching and reading loads but still cant find a definitive answer.

I am wanting to purchase a N95 mainly for the great 5mp camera and the GPS function.

I am not completely sure on how this GPS function works. I was under the impression that once you purchased a GPS unit that the rest was free! (pre downloaded maps, connection to the satellites etc) But I have been reading that if you want the GPS to follow (track) you around as the drive you need to pay for this aswell as the voice directions as an extra?

Finally my question is, I wont be on a data plan if a purchase a N95 so is there any pre download able maps that have free tracking when the screen follows you around the maps as you drive (is this what tracking is?) Basically is there anyway of getting software that will follow me and give me voice for free that is all pre- downloaded so i dont have to pay for data charges (even maybe if its not 100% ethical?((Hacks)), can i say that on these forums? if not, disregard)

I may seem like a tighta$$ but I will be stretching the budget to get the n95 in the first place and figure if i'm spending that much i shouldn't have to pay more.

Many thanks for your replies in shedding some light on this subject for me.

-Budron

[NZtechfreak]

MGMaps can store maps, its a little bit of hassle generating the maps, but it will follow you and prevent the need for a data connection (and its free).

No idea what Nokia maps are like for OZ (they're terrible here).

[Budron]

Cheers for the reply.

Anyone got anymore impressions on using the mgmaps program?

[mcbain]

The GPS function with the 6110 is free (incorporated in the phone cost)
As with the N95 the MAPS themselves are free, but for the tracking/navigation feature you must purchase a licence. Of which there are a few different options to be 'cost effective'.

[Budron]

Does that mean without the purchase of it and just the free maps that the dot (me) will still move on the map, but the screen wont follow the map around for me?

[mcbain]

The sreen will move with the dot(you) but not if you have a route showing.
It USED TO do this (tracking) but Nokia threw this feature out with the update to Maps 2.0

[Budron]

So is it at all possible to get an older version of nokia maps?
BTW thanks heaps for explaining all this.

[mcbain]

NO problems.
And as far as i know, you cant go backwards in versions of maps.
If you have a look into the pricing and if you are on a capped plan, you will work something out.
Say, purchase one week worth or even one day worth and pay for it via premium text message.

[Budron]

So is there any free software out there at all in which you can pre download the maps as to not get hefty data charges????? I will not be on any sort of plan, for data charges.

[NZtechfreak]

Already told you mate: MGMaps.