Information Technology Reference
In-Depth Information
Location Services: How the iPad Knows Position
The iPad with 3G includes a chip that picks up GPS (Global
Positioning Satellite) signals and translates them into an accurate
physical location. The Wi-Fi-only model does not contain a GPS chip,
but Maps still works. How?
Apple designed a system it calls Location Services, which takes GPS
and 3G cellular location data (if available) as well as information
from Skyhook Wireless, a company that plots the physical locations
of millions of Wi-Fi networks, to come up with an accurate fix on
your position. Any app can use Location Services, but it must first ask
your permission to use the information. The iPad's operating system
keeps track of which apps can access the location data.
It's possible to reset the list (in case you accidentally tapped Don't
Allow for an app), although it clears all permissions; you'll need to
grant access to apps again the next time they ask. Go to Settings >
General > Reset, and tap the Reset Location Warnings button.
You can also just disable Location Services in Settings > General (turn
the option to Off). However, some features, such as Find My iPad, will
no longer work. You may choose to disable Location Services tempo-
rarily, for example, when you want to conserve battery life.
To navigate the map, do any of the following:
■
Drag with one finger to reposition the map. As you move around, the
map redraws areas previously outside the borders of the frame. At any
time you can tap the Current Location button to re-center the map on
your position.
■
Pinch two fingers to zoom in or out. You can pinch and move at the
same time, too.
■
Double-tap anywhere on the screen to zoom in on that area.
