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Google Maps Navigation

Maybe I'm missing something, but isn't this pretty much useless given that it requires a data connection? You can't always rely on having a data connection available while you're driving around.

I don't think the dedicated satnav service providers need to worry just yet.

I've tried this and it hardly uses any data for a trip. Also it must cache the maps for the route ahead as it never loses maps even when you lose signal. It's not the best sat-nav, but it is good. The only problems now are:

1) You need to install a custom ROM, but I see no downsides to this.
2) No good for international travel where data charges are crippling.

On Google's blog they have stated that they're working on downloading maps and loading them on your device. Then sat-nav manufacturers should be very worried with Nokia and Android having free sat-nav.
 
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