I'm new to the forum and tried to search for this topic. I just purchased the 8800 and I'm interested in looking into activating the GPS. I have no idea what I need to do. I think I need to buy a separate receiver and sign up with Cingular for some additional service.

If anyone could give me some direction on this it would be greatly appreciated.

Thanks

Ken

The 8800 came with TelNav as one of the preloaded applications on Cingular. If you run that, you will have it as long as you have a data plan with your service. (if you have unlimited email service, then you have a data plan).

First thing to do is get a beer or glass of wine, and hop over to my tips site in my sig. Grab the 8800 tip sheet and then go to the GPS page and read on.

HUH? Are you suggesting that telenav is free?

Telenav is free for the first 30 days, but you still need to set up an account with them to input your 4 digit pin. I believe it's $9.99/mth for unlimited use. You're not charged any data charges by Cingular as long as your BB plan is unlimited, but you do need to pay for access to the service.

Just an aside .... The built-in GPS can be used on its own to get your coordinate location. Go to Settings>Options>Adv Options>GPS> then select Refresh GPS. Apps like BBMaps, Telenav, etc. use this info to pinpoint your position.

So with a Cingular 8800 I need to purchase a separate GPS receiver? Also, why does Cingular charge a monthly service when you can operate any GPS unit for free like a Garmin?

I think you may be confusing GPS with GPS Navigation Software. Yes, the 8800 comes with a GPS receiver. AS H3LLFIRE pointed out you can get the coordinates it is calculating.

What you want is GPS Navigation software. Here you have two choices right now. Pay $10/mo and get TeleNav or download BB Maps (do a search for comments on both and instructions on the latter). Personally, I think BB Maps is a waste of time. If you go to Stindsonddog's page he has a summary of GPS software for the BB but right now those are the only two options available.

The reason you're being charged is the BB doesn't have navigation software built in, the maps, poi, download air time are all included for the $10/mo. You'll see plenty of comments on TeleNav if you search. There is a less expensive plan too.

Also checkout Infoseek Find It, similar to google maps but uses the gps to get your position. A very nice program and it is free!

Regards-Michael G.

Thanks Michael That's what I was trying to explain. You did a much better job than me!

BB Maps is a waste of time IMO as well.

You can also try Mapquest Navigator. Officially the 8800 isn't listed as supported but I simply indicated that I have a Sprint 8703e and it works great on my Cingular 8800. Personally, I still prefer Telenav.

Has anyone tried Wayfinder with the 8800?