How to Turn Your Phone into a GPS for Driving: Tips and Tools
Traveling with a smartphone has become the norm, and with the right tools and settings, your phone can serve as an effective GPS while driving. This comprehensive guide will help you transform your phone into a reliable navigation source, including tips on mount placement, app usage, and advanced features like dashcams.
Turn Your Phone into a GPS with Ease
If you’re traveling in a newer car, you might have access to CarPlay. This feature allows you to use your iPhone via the car’s infotainment system when the phone is plugged in. Simply activate CarPlay on your iPhone, and your car’s system will display turn-by-turn directions. Additionally, you can ask Siri for directions, making the navigation process as seamless as possible. Simply turn on Siri and say ‘Hey Siri, take me to [destination]' to receive voice-guided directions.
Smartphone GPS and Turn-by-Turn Directions
Almost all smartphones come with robust mapping applications like Google Maps, Waze, or a similar application. These apps are designed to track your location and provide turn-by-turn directions. Some even use computer vision to understand the road conditions, as seen in a new free iPhone app called Nexar. This app turns your phone into a dashcam while using it as a GPS, providing real-time traffic and road condition updates. For the best experience, ensure that your phone is placed as high as possible on the dashboard, preferably below the level of the dash. This improves visibility and ensures that the phone is not easily distractable.
Ensure Safety and Compliance
While turning your phone into a GPS can be incredibly useful, it’s essential to prioritize safety. Mounting the phone on the windshield is a significant safety risk and is both unsafe and illegal in many jurisdictions. Instead, position the phone off-center and slightly towards the passenger side. This placement can provide a clear view of the road and reduce the risk of distracted driving. Additionally, always focus on the road ahead and avoid looking down at your phone for extended periods.
Advanced Features and Enhancements
Turning on audio prompts is crucial for safe navigation. These voice-guided directions ensure that you can stay focused on the road without having to constantly glance at the phone. For further enhancement, consider downloading a mapping app with advanced features such as real-time traffic updates, journey planning, and turn-by-turn directions. Some apps even provide predictive navigation, adjusting routes based on real-time data to find the most efficient path.
Additional Benefits: Using Your Phone as a Dashcam
In addition to serving as a GPS, your phone can also function as a dashcam. This dual functionality ensures that you have both navigation assistance and a record of your travels. To set up, you’ll need a good mobile mount and active data plans from an ISP. Once configured, the iPhone app Nexar or similar can capture images and videos of your journey. It’s a valuable tool for both safety and insurance purposes, especially in a collision.
With the right setup and tools, your smartphone can become an indispensable GPS for your travels. Whether you’re navigating through unfamiliar areas or using advanced features for safer driving, your phone can offer a comprehensive solution. Stay connected, stay safe, and enjoy the convenience of your smartphone as your trusted navigation partner on the road.