iPhone GPS module due Feb 2008

[+JSWilson64]

Here's a link to the hardware: Partfoundry and here's a link to one software developer - voice your requests! Monster and Friends.

 

They say the hardware will ship in Feb 2008. Without seeing any product, I think the OpenMoko folks have a better shot at a useable GPS application for a touch-screen smart phone, since they're working with open hardware and software. With the iPhone / iPod Touch, you run the risk of an Apple update bricking your device.

[Wintertime]

Here's a link to the hardware: Partfoundry

I don't have an iPhone or iPod Touch yet, so I haven't been paying extremely close attention to developments regarding them, but I have a question about this quote from the PartFoundry site:

 

The iphone locoGPS module allows jail broken iphones to finally have GPS functionality.

 

If you jailbreak an iPhone or iPod, doesn't that invalidate the warranty?

 

Patty

[+RRLover]

Here's a link to the hardware: Partfoundry

I don't have an iPhone or iPod Touch yet, so I haven't been paying extremely close attention to developments regarding them, but I have a question about this quote from the PartFoundry site:

 

The iphone locoGPS module allows jail broken iphones to finally have GPS functionality.

 

If you jailbreak an iPhone or iPod, doesn't that invalidate the warranty?

 

Patty

Yes, . . . . unless you're able to save and restore the firmware before turning it in for service, modders

beware!

 

Norm

[+zafwon]

I have an iPhone and it's a little frustrating when it comes to GPS's and third party apps/hardware. Yes Apple will not officially support jailbroken phones.

 

I'm currently use a program called Navizon that gives me positional data from cell towers. It's not too bad for general directions and it integrates well with Google Maps. No turn by turn but I don't think the module will offer that ether. Works with my data plan so I'm not tied to wi-fi.

 

In Feb 2008 Apple is going to offer a SDK for third party vendors...so that would make us think they'll allow things like the GPS module soon. We'll have to see, but I don't see the battery being too friendly to some attachment sucking power. It already struggles with wi-fi, edge, and Bluethooth all running.

 

I hack the heck out of my phone to make it do what I need. It's such a capable and dynamic device, but they lock it down and force people to take the risk.

[+BrianAndAmanda]

I have been keeping my eye out for this gps module and will buy it as soon as it comes out. Think about it, an iphone with gps is the ULTIMATE geocaching tool. I Just hope the coders are working on geocaching software for the iphone.

[+JSWilson64]

Well, so the date has come and gone, and PartFoundry has placed the iPhone / iPod Touch GPS module on indefinite hold. I guess the SDK didn't have what they needed to make it a go after all. They are working on a new product that is a wifi-connected "GPS server," with a summer 2008 release date.

Quote from www.gomite.com

LocoGPS Wi-Fi Mobile Navigation Server incorporates its own GPS receiver, processor, battery and transmits over an integrated Wi-Fi radio to enable a full mapping solution through a web-based user interface. So in other words, if your device has Wi-Fi and a compatible web browser then you can connect to locoGPS Wi-Fi Mobile Navigation Server without special software installed on the display device - pretty nifty, eh?

I ain't holding my breath.

 

It's a shame Apple won't turn loose the Bluetooth on the iPhone.