GPS with Traffic: Google Maps App

Just a few years ago, GPS's were the hot thing.  Over time, some providers started to combine the GPS software with traffic information...

And then, smartphone providers started to provide GPS services for a fee.  This had the added benefit of up-to-date road maps.

The Google Maps app available on many smartphones now provides these features for free (with your smartphone's data-plan + the smartphone's GPS).  We've tested the "Google Maps app" -- with traffic enabled -- and the results have been very accurate (especially in metro areas).

Here's an interesting article on how traffic data is collected. 

4G Wireless Coming Soon for Verizon Smartphones

At the recent CES show, Verizon showed some of the new 4G smartphones that will soon be available. Verizon's network actually boasts 4G speed now -- but it is currently available only for aircards (for laptops) in most markets. Smartphones that can use the 4G signal will hopefully be available within a few months.

Sprint currently DOES offer 4G data service for its smartphones, but Sprint's "footprint" and signal strength seems to be best in and around the metropolitan areas it serves. It's network "shadows" Verizon's network -- but the actual signal strength is not as strong (at least in testing we have done) if you are slightly outside the main service areas.

Some other notes:

• Verizon is expected to offer the Iphone 4 in early February. Note that all of these numbers are confusing to some people. The Iphone 4 will used 3G speed for smartphone data service.
• Verizon's 4G service, called LTE, will be accessible by 4G phones that will probably be available in the second quarter of 2011. Verizon salespeople are saying, "Within a few months; maybe even in a few weeks" -- but it makes sense for Verizon to stagger their offerings.
• Sprint's 4G service seems good, but you should check the signal strength of your smartphone.