How good have the last few years been for the GPS business? In the second quarter of 2005, over 1,200,000 GPS devices were sold to consumers around the country. In the same quarter of 2006 that number had jumped to an astonishing 2,400,000 - a leap of 100%! But what is fueling this growth? And what does the future hold for advancement in consumer Global Positioning System devices?

Read out to discover the places GPS is making the most impact today - and the areas that may hold the key to the future of GPS devices for consumers and businesses.


GPS Devices in Cell Phones

Once, the concept of a handheld GPS device would have been a tough sell. But over the next few years, we can expect to see more and more personal GPS devices - small, inexpensive and ultra-lightweight - reaching the market. Also, look for all the latest models of cell phones and advanced smart phones to start coming equipped with real time GPS capability.

And don't think that cell phone makers are pushing GPS technology on an unwilling public. Surveys held by three major cell phone makers found that GPS was the feature "most want to see" in their next cell phone (24% said GPS, 19% said Internet capability)

GPS Devices in Cars

Once the property of only long-distance truckers and military vehicles, GPS tracking and navigation devices have made their way into millions of American and imported automobiles over the past several years. In fact, the devices now come standard in several manufacturers' luxury cars.

Among the benefits these in-auto GPS devices offer drivers:

Live traffic reports delivered to the device
 Voice activated turn-by-turn navigation
Touch screen controls on colorful, interactive maps
Safety features including automated police contact when the car has been stolen

GPS: Making the cars of the future safer

GPS engineers are beginning to take their technology to the next level in terms of driver safety. 3-D modeling technology used in many advanced GPS devices are now being utilized to help cars anticipate turns and obstacles in the road before the driver can even turn the wheel. In these situations, a small red light comes on inside the car, alerting the driver of impending danger.

This same "Jetsons-like" technology would also automate defensive driving by sizing up potential conflict on the road, and directing the car in the best way to avoid it.

Although both seem futuristic, consider the current line of Lexus automobiles that can parallel park themselves - truly a marvel of modern engineering!

All these systems use GPS based technology that continues to push the envelope.

GPS helps businesses save money

With GPS technology become less expensive and more accurate, business are beginning to reap the benefits. Many companies report significant savings in fuel costs thanks to GPS systems that let them plan and execute the most efficient travel routes for their drivers. GPS also helps companies keep their drivers safer (and where they are supposed to be) by offering advanced tracking capabilities.

If you love technology (or just have a poor sense of direction) then stick around! The future of Global Positioning Systems looks to be an exciting ride.

 

 

 

 By: Mark Etinger