A new service from handset maker Nokia reduces the time it takes for its cell phone-based GPS navigation systems to determine the starting locations of users and increases the navigation experience by getting users to their destinations in less time, according to the company. Nokia phone-based navigation systems employ the Nokia Maps application for geographical data. The Assisted GPS (A-GPS) service is currently available on the Nokia 6110 Navigator and the Nokia N95 smartphone, according to a press release. The company hopes to equip its full lineup of mobile devices with GPS with the new service, and current N95 owners can update their firmware to include A-GPS via the Nokia Software Updater. RELATED LINKS Review: TeleNav Track Uses GPS to Manage Your Mobile Workforce The Business-Savvy Smartphone Review: Nokia E62 The time it takes a GPS service to determine a user’s starting location is called “time to first fix,” according to Nokia, and A-GPS reduces this time for an improved navigation experience. “By decreasing the time wasted while you wait for a first fix, we are increasing the enjoyment that Nokia Maps provides,” said Ralph Eric Kunz, Nokia’s vice president of multimedia experiences, in the release. Third-party service providers, like cell phone carriers, also have the option of incorporating their own regional A-GPS services via a technical framework that works in tandem with Nokia’s service, “making fix times even faster in certain areas.” A-GPS operates via users’ cellular data networks, and data transfer fees vary based on service provider. In related news, CIO.com recently reviewed the Nokia E62 smartphone,which includes built-in GPS. More information about Nokia Maps is available on the company’s website. Related content brandpost Sponsored by Palo Alto Networks Operational technology systems require a robust Zero Trust strategy in 2024 Zero Trust provides a foundation for creating a stronger security posture in 2024. By Navneet Singh, vice president of marketing, network security, Palo Alto Networks Dec 05, 2023 6 mins Security brandpost Sponsored by AWS in collaboration with IBM How digital twin technology is changing complex industrial processes forever As the use cases for digital twins proliferate, it is becoming clear that data-driven enterprises with a track record of innovation stand the best chance of success. By Laura McEwan Dec 05, 2023 4 mins Digital Transformation brandpost Sponsored by AWS in collaboration with IBM Why modernising applications needs to be a ‘must’ for businesses seeking growth Around one-third of enterprises are spending heavily on application modernisation and aiming for cloud native status. The implications for corporate culture, structure and priorities will be profound. By Laura McEwan Dec 05, 2023 5 mins Digital Transformation opinion 11 ways to reduce your IT costs now Reorienting IT’s budget toward future opportunities is a big reason why CIOs should review their IT portfolios with an eye toward curbing unnecessary spending and realizing maximum value from every IT investment. By Stephanie Overby Dec 05, 2023 11 mins Budget Cloud Management IT Governance Podcasts Videos Resources Events SUBSCRIBE TO OUR NEWSLETTER From our editors straight to your inbox Get started by entering your email address below. Please enter a valid email address Subscribe