Sage-Tips

How does my GPS know there is traffic ahead?

Here’s how it works: All iPhones that have Google Maps open and Android phones that have location services turned on send anonymous bits of data back to Google. This allows the company to analyze the total number of cars, and how fast they’re going, on a road at any given time.

How does Google Maps know when there is an accident?

Local highway authorities may have road sensors or cameras and may share that information with Google. Information from your phone you may not know you’re sending. Google analyzes how fast you are moving while the Google Maps app is open and uses that as part of its traffic condition analysis.

How does Apple Maps know there is an accident?

An accident, they know because our phone’s GPS is monitored by Google. They ask you if you want to help, and by default the answer is yes, unless you change it.

How does Google Maps know about stalled vehicles?

Using radar, active infrared or laser radar technology, the sensors are able to detect the size and speed of passing vehicles and then wirelessly transmit that information to a server [sources: Machay, Palmer].

How does Garmin GPS know traffic?

RDS (Radio Data System) traffic information comes through the regular FM radio system. RDS bandwidth is limited, so the amount of data you can receive via this method will be limited. DAB (Digital Audio Broadcasting) uses digital radio and high-speed bandwidth technology to receive up-to- date nationwide data.

How does satnav get traffic data?

Most of the more affordable in-car sat navs, such as Navigon and Medion devices, get their live traffic information supplied free via the Traffic Message Channel (TMC). Run by Trafficmaster , the data is sent over the FM radio band and decoded by the sat nav to provide verbal or visual traffic alerts.

Does Apple Maps use live traffic?

Another handy feature of Apple Maps is the ability to view traffic information and related issues. Roadworks and road closures are displayed by default, but you’ll have to turn on live traffic information in the settings. In the Maps app, tap the i icon in the top-right of the display to access Apple Maps Settings.

What does red on Apple Maps mean?

stop-and-go traffic
You can show traffic conditions in Maps so that you can plan the fastest route and leave enough travel time. Orange indicates slowdowns, and red indicates stop-and-go traffic. A marker appears anywhere there’s a traffic incident. To get more information about a traffic incident, click a marker on the map.

Does Google Maps show traffic data?

Google Maps lets you see the traffic levels around you, for example, but this feature is somewhat hidden. While you’ll see the traffic along a planned route automatically when you plan a trip via car to a specific destination, that color coding doesn’t extend to streets not on your route.

Do you have to pay for traffic data with a GPS?

As mentioned above, some newer portable GPS units and in-dash navigation receivers include either a limited or lifetime subscription to a traffic data service, typically for free and in some cases supported by on-screen advertising. Other devices or sources require a subscription to their service.

How do I get Real-time traffic information on my GPS?

Depending on the equipment you have, you’ll subscribe to a service that’s broadcast over terrestrial FM, or to one that’s broadcast along with satellite radio signals. Many new portable navigators now include this real-time traffic info for free.

How does Google tell you about traffic conditions in your area?

This is precisely how Google tells you about the traffic conditions in your precise area. Once you toggle ‘My Location’ on in Google Maps, you will automatically start sending your location data to Google’s servers.

Do I need a GPS unit to drive to work?

Normally, you wouldn’t use a GPS unit to guide you to work, or to get you back home along familiar roads. But with real-time traffic info, you’ll find that your navigation system becomes an invaluable traveling tool you’ll use daily. What do I need and how much does it cost?