Phone GPS captures location, speed and direction during active trips while the driver app is running. It needs location permissions and connectivity, and does not receive ignition or engine data from the vehicle. A dedicated tracker can provide vehicle tracking independently of the phone, with data determined by the device and its connections.
What data does the driver app collect?
During an active trip or booking, the app captures the phone’s position, speed and heading. It aims to sample location roughly every minute, with actual updates affected by movement, phone settings, permissions and connectivity. Background tracking requires background location permission and support from the phone’s operating system.
Phone GPS supplies trip locations; it does not connect to the vehicle’s ignition, engine or sensors.
How does it compare with an IntelliTrac device?
| What you need | Phone GPS | IntelliTrac device |
|---|---|---|
| Position on the map | During active trips while the app is running | Based on device, reporting settings and connectivity |
| Trip history and replay | From available phone locations | From available device locations |
| Ignition and engine data | No | With suitable hardware and supported connections |
| Tracking without the app running | No | Yes, subject to device power and connectivity |
| Harsh driving events | Not from phone GPS | With supported hardware and configuration |
| Driver identification | App sign-in | Driver identification options, including RFID |
| Camera footage | No | With a compatible camera system |
Which option should we use?
Use phone GPS when trip-level location is enough or before trackers are fitted. Choose a dedicated device when you need vehicle tracking independently of the driver’s phone, or ignition, engine and sensor information.
Explore IntelliTrac tracking software to see the fleet map, journey replay and site activity. Our team can help match devices and connections to your vehicles.
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