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Can you trust your phone's GPS driving directions?

Posted at 6:57 AM, Sep 24, 2019
and last updated 2019-09-24 09:57:59-04

So you're heading out on the road?

With no map and no dedicated GPS device, you're likely counting on your phone to keep you on the right path.

But Data Doctor Ken Colburn says your smartphone mapping features may not be what you want, if you can't get a signal.

Instead, he suggests if you're headed to remote areas or another country, look into a newer GPS device, which uses satellites and isn't dependent on cell phone towers.

Plus, you can get specialized GPS devices.

If you're a hiker, you can get a portable one to be used in car and on foot.

If you drive an RV or a long vehicle, look for specific devices that consider height restrictions and sharp curves in roads.

There are ways to use your smartphone for mapping without a signal.

There are Apple and Google maps, but experts say they are limited and can drain your battery.