More on the Apple iPhone 3G's GPS Features

We're learning more about the GPS features, location-based services, and software applications for the new Apple iPhone 3G as its release date approaches (July 11). As reported earlier, the new iPhone comes with a high-sensitivity GPS receiver, but it will also calculate your position with the help of WiFi hotspots and cellular towers when it can't pick up GPS satellite signals (rare in these days of high-sensitivity receivers, which often work indoors). Features include:

• Geotag photos: automatically attach precise coordinates to photos you take with your iPhone. Geotags are useful for posting your photos by location at various online services.
• Turn-by-turn directions and traffic tracking and avoidance. Still little information on the specifics, and the data and software driving these features. Remains to be seen if the iPhone 3G can compare with dedicated car GPS devices in this crucial category. Car GPS maker TomTom is rumored to have an iPhone application in the works.
• Maps on iPhone: Switch between map view, satellite image view, and "hybrid" view, powered by Google Maps.
• Apple has opened the iPhone up to third-party applications, so you'll be able to shop the App Store for location-based apps such as "Loopt" which lets you locate and connect with friends, and be alerted when friends are nearby; share your location, status, and photos; explore places and events recommended by friends. The open apps capability will be receiving a lot of attention from top developers, and there will be an impressive set of location-based apps available as time goes on.

Apple has posted a guided tour of the new iPhone 3G that includes a demo of GPS, Google Maps directions, and a points-of-interest search.

iPhone 3G photo © Apple