Hey all, I'm close to making a decision about which smartphone to purchase and I'm considering the Blackberry Curve 8330 that Verizon offers. However, I need to some assistance in trying to discern how the GPS function works.

I'm currently on a family plan that does not offer Internet access, and I am aware that the GPS funtion works despite needing to access the Internet, but I do know I need a software based application and maps in order to utilize the full function of the GPS feature. I'm moving soon to a different state/city locale and I'm definitely going to need it navigate around the area I'm in (I'm poor at personal navigation!)

Is anyone aware of a free application and maps service that is accessible on the Blackberry Curve without requiring use of the Internet?

Any information you guys have to give would much appreciated. Thanks!

Not that I have heard of. Why have a blackberry without internet service?

no. especially not on verizon.

Wirelessly posted (8310; The Juggernaut)

There are thousands of posts here attesting to the fact that the 8330 GPS on VZW will not work unless you pay for VZW Navigator. And you must have a Data Plan on VZW.

So on top of the data plan, one would have to purchase the navigator to have gps working on the phone? How much does it cost and is there a better program to use on the curve?

9.99 a month for vz navigator and its the only program that works on vzw

MarkyMark: Only on Verizon and Alltel, is the purchase of the service required. On AT&T, TMo and others, it is not required to be purchased.

Thanks guys.

Hi, I would buy a cheap GPS system, like from Tiger Direct or Goggle GPS prices. I have used OEM systems in 3 cars so far and the TomTom and Garmin units for around $129.00 or so work as well as far as getting you from Point A to Point B as the OEM systems.
At $10.00 a month plus the Data charges, in less then a year you pay for the GPS system not to mention looking at a 3"-4" screen vs looking at your Blackberry screen. The portable systems for a few dollars a year you can update maps on-line. For my Honda Pilot OEM system, the newest version of the DVD is $189.00. I can by a TomTom for that.
I hope that helps you some.

Sigh -- as usual, there are plenty of reasons. However, it's not an option with VZW anyway.

I don't know if it's true that you need to purchase Navigator. I just got my 8330 and downloaded Google Maps yesterday. Seems to work well.

eugkim, you aren't using GPS on GoogleMaps, you are likely looking at a cell tower based location. On the screen, do you have a large wide light blue circle, or a pinpoint darkblue dot for your location, and within how many meters are you? It should state at the bottom of the screen?

Welcome to the BBForums, also.