Should you use a smartphone app like Google Maps or buy an onboard Satellite Navigation (Sat Nav) system by the car manufacturer for your navigation needs? Now, isn’t that the million-dirham question! If you are scratching your head wondering which is better, we have already done the work for you. Now just in case you are in the market looking for used cars for sale in Dubai, UAE, you will know which tech will suit your car better. Let’s take a look.
Coverage makes all the difference
Both have GPS capability so the question is which one is faster? You probably didn’t know this but smartphones can actually get a faster fix on your location in the UAE. That does not mean they provide better coverage though. Smartphones rely on an internet connection to download maps on the go. That’s bad news if you are traveling overseas or in an area with poor coverage. With Sat Nav there are no such concerns since it provides offline access to up-to-date maps.
Sat Nav takes this round. But hey, Google Maps and Apple Maps are planning enhanced offline access for their apps. Let’s keep an eye out for that!
Mapping holds the key
Relying on a navigation app is usually a safer bet, especially in Dubai. Want to know why? It’s simple; there is so much construction going on in the region that roads and routes change all the time and your Sat Nav maps are likely to get outdated within months. You can take the car to the dealer and get the maps updated but that is a hassle and some dealers even charge for it!
Apps win because they are connected to global maps and are always updated.
Ease of access wins out
Sat nav has easy charging and display going for it. Apps, on the other hand, typically have a much better interface and top-notch search functionality. And you can always fix some of their access issues by buying a windshield mount and charger.
This is a close one since both have their own benefits. Judging by the pace smartphone tech is being developed, in the near future, apps will probably win out.
Pay attention to additional features
Both apps and Sat Nav offer route planning. However, for live traffic updates, smartphone apps are the way to go. Google Maps can show you areas with traffic congestion and suggest alternative routes. And we all know that traffic updates can be a real lifesaver in Dubai’s traffic. Or you can learn how to survive the traffic on UAE roads.
Smartphone apps are a better option. After all, we can’t do without our live traffic updates, right?
Know the cost
Dealers can charge thousands of dirhams for pre-installed Sat Nav. Apps like Google Maps are practically free. Take your pick! Obvious, eh?
What’s the final verdict then? Navigation Apps emerge a clear winner! They are cheaper, more up to date, and offer much better functionality. So, the next time you are investing in new or used cars in Dubai without a Sat Nav system, bear this information in mind. Why pay a premium for a car with a Sat Nav system when your smartphone can do the job just as good, if not better. Happy driving!
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