Re: How does the GPS compare to other devices?
 

No, it's from a first (actually, third) person perspective, that is always pointing down the road you are travelling. I do not think that the Ovi map does this (it does not on the E71 anyway).

Re: How does the GPS compare to other devices?
 

Concerning the GPS performance without an internet connection, seems like other people have noticed it too: bug #5337

Re: How does the GPS compare to other devices?
 

I thought that the phone needs a GSM signal to triangulate its location to get a GPS lock quickly, and not an internet connection. Isn't what A-GPS (Assisted GPS) is?

Re: How does the GPS compare to other devices?
 

On OpenTom.org wiki there is an (incomplete) list of hardware features of TomTom hardware. Link. By far not all TomTom products have a digital compass, and I'm positive this is not required for accurate result. At least, not on TomTom products I've used.

Not sure but I imagine this:

1) AGPS is used.
2) Updated via 3G.
3) User moves more than 300 km.
4) AGPS data out of date.
5) *argh*

So, I'd try to:

1) Select different spot for AGPS (at least possible with AGPS on N810)
2) Disable AGPS and test what kind of difference this setting makes.
3) As workaround, get those few kB required for AGPS using roaming or WiFi.

Re: How does the GPS compare to other devices?
 

Pretty much the case for me too.

I resorted to navigation from a visual fix irl and using the route 'set from map'.

Re: How does the GPS compare to other devices?
 

looks like a vector based map to me.

Re: How does the GPS compare to other devices?
 

I have no idea about what context you were using the word 'vector'.

If you meant a spatial vector, as in engineering, then yes, I suppose, as the view perspective is in the direction you are heading - sort of what I was saying.

If you meant vector as in vector graphics (as opposed to bitmap), then yes, the map data would be vector data, and the display would be rendered from that information, but that seems beside the point - it would be the same case for Ovi too.

What did you mean?

Re: How does the GPS compare to other devices?
 

I have actually had this issue with other phones that use agps. Usually a software patch fixes the issue or I had to turn off AGPS entirely

Re: How does the GPS compare to other devices?
 

What is the GPS data refresh rate? Many are 1HZ which is sufficient for most traveling. A faster sampling rate (without interpolation) or at least an option would be nice though.

Re: How does the GPS compare to other devices?
 

Vector vs. bitmap maps. Map data stored in some vector format is more compact and can find routes, etc. In contrast, programs that only download and save bitmap tiles don't really have any awareness of streets, etc.

It's a pretty specific distinction when talking about mapping software.

@Jason

A-GPS means using a server to do the number crunching with the GPS signal data. Using the GSM towers for rough position triangulation is different. In the preview i read of the N900, the phone was able to get a GPS position fix in 30 seconds or less consistently when using A-GPS (via Nokia's provided server URL). When he tested with A-GPS disabled at my request, it took about 6 minutes to get the initial (cold) fix.

I've written about this in another thread on the N900's GPS here already. I recommend browsing that thread for details on the GPS...