Where does the network in the car navigation come from?
3 Answers
Car navigation systems utilize offline navigation functionality. After downloading the offline navigation installation package, offline navigation can be achieved. The navigation system requires an initial satellite positioning, which must be supported by a network connection for the first time. Once positioned, it does not need to be repositioned again. It offers high precision and strong signals, enabling real-time position updates even in tunnels. The built-in GPS antenna receives data transmitted by at least three of the 24 GPS satellites orbiting the Earth, thereby determining the car's current location. The navigation host matches the position coordinates determined by GPS satellite signals with the electronic map data to accurately locate the car on the electronic map.
The network connection in car navigation primarily comes from the built-in cellular module in the vehicle, which connects to the mobile operator's 4G or 5G network. Many modern cars integrate small antennas and SIM cards, similar to mobile phone internet access, enabling automatic connection to telecom services for real-time traffic updates and map refreshes. From my observation, manufacturers like Tesla or Toyota pre-install data plans, offering free trial periods, after which a monthly subscription fee is required. This technology relies on eSIM or physical SIM cards, ensuring stable data transmission, with speed dependent on coverage. Users can manage the connection via the in-car menu: setting data usage limits or completely disabling it to save costs. Additional benefits include instant searches for points of interest, such as restaurant ratings, which are far more convenient than outdated disc updates. Occasionally, in areas with poor signal, the navigation automatically switches to offline mode but warns about connectivity risks.
When driving, the navigation network often relies on the phone's hotspot. After enabling the iPhone's personal hotspot, the car system connects to Wi-Fi to access the internet, allowing for real-time traffic updates or downloading new maps. Earlier models required manual configuration, but many cars now support automatic Bluetooth pairing by default. If the owner prefers not to use a hotspot, some premium vehicles come with built-in mobile data solutions, obtaining services from carriers like AT&T. I've noticed that data fees might be included in the manufacturer's subscription package or billed separately. The connected car system caches data to reduce usage, but staying online ensures the navigation stays current, such as avoiding road construction. Setup is straightforward: just select Wi-Fi in the car's settings. Remember to regularly check your phone's data limits to avoid unexpected overages.
