Blackberry and GPS

[leobags]

I have tried to download some blackberry programs into the phone that use GPS , but the program can not acess the GPS . I know the GPS works because the map program that comes with it works. I have been told that Verizon locks the GPS . If so how do I get it unlocked?

Leo

[LOWFLYER]

Hey Leobags, welcome to the forum.  First, what BB do you have?  Second have you tried downloading google maps?  Third, remember when you're using the GPS feature to turn on your location.  Most have it set to 911 only, but you can go into Options>Advanced Options>GPS>GPS Services>Set "Location On" and save.  Let us know how it goes.

-Justin

A "Quickpull" a day keeps the lag away. PM me for a link to the download.

Serving proudly, USAF, Land of the free because of the brave.

[leobags]

I have the pearl 8130 . I now have blackberry maps installed and it works but not many features . I tried google maps but it only showed the nearest cell tower. I tried downloading other GPS programs from blackberry but none could access the GPS. The phone is set to location on . I have tried both ways .

Leo

[LOWFLYER]

Not sure on the Pearl, but on the Storm it does go to the nearest tower first, and then takes a few mins to get down to your actual location.  With Google maps my Storm GPS is accurate on my location within 10 feet literally sitting in my house but it initially shows my location within 300 yards or something before it actually acquires my exact location.  Try it again and wait a few mins to give it time to acquire your exact position and let us know how it goes.  Even with my HP iPaq it takes usually 2-3 mins before it acquires enough satellites to pinpoint me and you're phone is no different.   

[leobags]

I wil try this but some of the programs that i have installed tells you that the gps is not conected.

leo 

[StreetDocRN]

Leo,

I have a Pearl 8130 and had similar problems.  I am a former Alltel customer who was inducted into Verizon Wireless.  I just yesterday found RIM updated the 8130's operating system software to version 4.5.0.160.  I updated the software and for some reason, the GPS works.  I do know that it can take several minutes for the device to lock into a satellite to get a position.  I have only tried using Blackberry Maps to find my location on a map and not used any other software.  My wife has the same phone and I tried in vain to get hers to lock into a satellite but it would not work for me until I upgraded her software on her phone.  I am not sure if the Blackberry OS upgrade had anything to do with making the GPS work, but it seemed to for me.  Hope this helps.

Michael

[LOWFLYER]

It is possible I suppose that it was locked out until this update as VZW just recently started unlocking the GPS in BBs from what I understand.  I think the Storm was the first to come out unlocked.  Get the update and report back.  Remember that it will take a few mins for your phone to acquire a few satellites so be patient.  Please let us know if it doesn't work so we can further assist in troubleshooting.

[BBgirl09]

Afaik, the Storm and Tour are the only 2 devices with GPS unlocked on Verizon unless you pay for VZNavigator.  Even then the GPS does not work with other apps, only VZNav. 

Maybe time for a new BlackBerry. 

Edit, I take that back about GPS, but I think it's unlocked only for use with BlackBerry Maps, not all third party GPS programs.

Message Edited by BBgirl09 on 07-24-2009 10:06 PM

[leobags]

I think you are right i can get a new one in Nov. I think i will

Thanks

leo