Connect External GPS to iPad/iPhone - Step-by-Step Guide

Adding GPS Functionality to a Wi-Fi Only iPad

This guide is designed for iPad users who purchased a Wi-Fi only model and now desire GPS capabilities. It will detail the process of connecting your iPad to an external GPS unit or a GPS-enabled smartphone.

Why Add GPS to Your Wi-Fi iPad?

Several motivations might prompt you to pursue this setup. One common reason is the availability of a dedicated GPS device offering extended battery life and enhanced accuracy compared to a smartphone.

Alternatively, if you own a Wi-Fi only iPad, integrating GPS functionality allows for precise mapping applications, surpassing the limitations of Wi-Fi-based location services.

Connecting to an External GPS Unit or Smartphone

The following steps will enable GPS functionality on your iPad using either an external GPS receiver or your smartphone. Ensure compatibility of the chosen device before proceeding.

Important Considerations: The specific method for connecting and configuring GPS may vary depending on the external device and the apps you intend to use. Consult the documentation for both your iPad and the GPS device for detailed instructions.

Utilizing an external GPS unit or a smartphone with GPS capabilities effectively expands the functionality of your Wi-Fi only iPad, providing accurate location data for navigation and mapping applications.

Essential Requirements

This guide details the necessary components for the following process:

• A jailbroken iOS device – in this instance, an iPad will be utilized.
• The BTstack GPS application (obtainable through the Cydia store, specifically from the Big Boss repository, priced at $5).
• A GPS receiver that supports transmitting coordinate data via Bluetooth connectivity (an Android phone will serve as our example).

The provided instructions focus on establishing a connection between an Android phone and an iPad; however, the methodology is adaptable for pairing a TomTom GPS unit with either an iPhone or an iPad, alongside various other device combinations.

It is crucial to reiterate that a jailbroken device is a prerequisite for this procedure. The technique relies on the capability of a jailbroken iOS device to disable the standard Apple Bluetooth stack and substitute it with BTstack.

Setting up BTstack GPS

To begin, open Cydia on your iOS device. Utilize the store’s search feature to find BTstack GPS. The BigBoss repository is typically enabled by default. If it isn't, access it through the main Cydia screen by selecting “More Package Sources”.

Upon locating BTstack GPS, proceed with the installation. The application is priced at $5, with payment options including PayPal and Amazon Payments. A demo version is available for users who wish to test compatibility before purchasing.

Demo Mode Functionality

The demo mode allows you to verify the connection between your iOS device and the external GPS device. However, it's important to note that GPS data will only be accessible within the BTstack GPS application itself during the demo period.

Following installation, navigate to the Settings menu on your iOS device. Two key configurations are required.

Configuration Steps

First, within the General Settings, ensure that the native iOS Bluetooth functionality is disabled. Second, access the Extensions menu and select BTstack. Confirm that the BTstack option is enabled.

By completing these steps, you will prepare your iOS device to effectively utilize an external GPS device with BTstack GPS.

Setting Up an Android Bluetooth Forwarder

Individuals intending to utilize this method with a separate GPS unit can proceed directly to the device pairing stage. Consulting the device’s documentation prior to initiating the BTstack GPS pairing process is recommended.

We are employing an Android smartphone as the GPS source, necessitating the configuration of the device to transmit the GPS signal through Bluetooth connectivity.

As of now, approximately six applications are available that cater to users seeking to connect their Android GPS module to an external system via Bluetooth. User feedback suggests that the functionality of these apps can vary significantly depending on the specific phone model.

It’s important to be prepared to test multiple applications before discovering one that functions optimally. Bluetooth GPS proved successful in our testing; however, alternatives such as ShareGPS, Network/Bluetooth GPS, and Bluetooth GPS Output are also worth exploring.

Begin by installing Bluetooth GPS, and if compatibility issues arise, proceed to evaluate the other options. The process is somewhat unconventional, as mobile phone manufacturers generally do not anticipate users utilizing the GPS functionality outside of the device itself.

Application Installation and Initial Configuration

Once you’ve selected an application, install it on your Android device. The installation process is standard for Android applications and should be completed quickly.

After installation, launch the application. You will likely be prompted to grant the application certain permissions, including access to your location and Bluetooth settings. Grant these permissions to ensure proper functionality.

Pairing with Your External Device

With the application running, initiate the pairing process with your external device. This typically involves putting your external device into pairing mode and then selecting it from the list of available Bluetooth devices within the Android application.

Follow the on-screen instructions provided by both the application and your external device to complete the pairing process. A successful pairing will establish a Bluetooth connection between your Android phone and the external device.

Establishing Connections Between Your Devices

Having transitioned your iOS device to utilize the alternative Bluetooth stack, the next step involves verifying the functionality of the GPS application paired with BTstack.

A new icon, designated simply as GPS, should now be visible on your home screen. Selecting this icon will reveal a minimalist interface displaying a list of available devices.

Initial Device Search

Upon the first launch, the application will initiate a search for devices. Ensure your Bluetooth GPS device is in discovery mode to facilitate a prompt connection.

The screenshot illustrates our Android device appearing after a scan for Bluetooth devices, alongside the pairing request sent to the iPad.