GPS Tracking Vs. GPS Navigation

30 Dec 2020

A common assumption individuals make when hearing the term GPS is that GPS navigation and GPS tracking are the same. But, even though they both utilize Global Positioning Satellites, they’re different services and devices.

What Is GPS Navigation?

With GPS navigation, it’s usually referred to using a device, built-in navigation system in your vehicle or an app to gain directions or find your way so you can get to your destination without getting lost. GPS navigation devices and apps receive data from GPS satellites based on data you input into them like a landmark or address you’re trying to reach.

A GPS navigation device will literally navigate you to the destination you want. Regardless of where you live worldwide, GPS navigation works. If you’re looking to get to a destination and aren’t sure how to get there, it’s a GPS navigation device you’re looking for to get you there.

What Is GPS Tracking?

With GPS tracking, a device receives GPS satellite data and then turns around and sends this data to a person who’s away from the device (sometimes hundreds of miles away). It can be hidden or hardwired into a vehicle. The data display can be an app on a smartphone or a piece of equipment in an office.

GPS tracking is primarily used for tracking where someone or something is. You can also use it for monitoring the health of a vehicle, too, like it’s fuel consumption. You can track a vehicle with GPS tracking and locate a vehicle if it’s not where it should be

Some of the uses for GPS tracking include:

Families can feel secure knowing their vehicles are being protected by GPS tracking. GPS tracking not only shows them the location where their stolen vehicle is, but it can also show them where a loved one is if there’s an emergency.

You can use GPS tracking in your teenager’s vehicle to see when they arrive and leave school or home and even monitor their driving behavior like speeding, harsh braking and other driving behaviors.

It’s a very remarkable device that both businesses and individuals can use and is very different from GPS navigation. Hopefully this cleared up any misunderstanding or confusion between the two types of devices.

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About George Karonis

George Karonis is the founder and Chief Executive Officer of LiveViewGPS Inc., a company he established in 2008 with the vision of making real-time GPS tracking more reliable, affordable, and accessible for businesses of all sizes. Over the past two decades, he has built a reputation as an innovator in GPS tracking, fleet management, asset monitoring, and Push-to-Talk over Cellular (PTToC) communications. Under George's leadership, LiveViewGPS has grown into a nationally recognized provider of GPS tracking solutions, serving businesses, government agencies, educational institutions, law enforcement organizations, and public works departments throughout the United States. The company's technology helps organizations improve operational efficiency, protect valuable assets, increase driver safety, and reduce operating costs through real-time location intelligence. Before founding LiveViewGPS, George developed a background in security, surveillance, and emerging location technologies. His passion for innovation and practical problem solving has driven the development of products that combine dependable hardware with easy-to-use cloud software, giving customers actionable information when it matters most. In 2018, George expanded into nationwide Push-to-Talk over Cellular communications by launching PeakPTT, providing businesses with rugged, instant communication solutions that operate over LTE and Wi-Fi networks. His focus has remained the same throughout his career: delivering dependable technology backed by exceptional customer service and long-term customer relationships. George regularly writes about GPS tracking, fleet management, asset protection, business technology, and communication systems. Through this blog, he shares industry insights, practical advice, and emerging trends to help organizations make informed decisions about tracking technology and connected operations.