GPS, like many modern technologies, is often taken for granted. Yet it's quite a bit more fragile, in terms of operation, than you might think. Here are some facts and tips that may help your own smartphone GPS experience.

"Having been with us now for over twenty years, from hardcore tech enthusiast territory to mass market gadget, GPS has certainly come of age. On a marketing board outside a phone shop, GPS is mentioned and the user immediately assumes that the phone will, more or less instantly, know where it is on the planet. Just like that. Just like magic. It says 'GPS' so it must do what it says on the tin. A bit like "3G" or "5MP camera". Simply facts and things that will just 'work'."

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