Location data and data usage (Verizon, iPhone, updating, GPS)

[JazzmanLI]

So I have a iPhone on a 2GB data plan with Verizon. I've been using the Mapquest app while traveling and I notice it uses my current location. Does this use data? I know all the maps do but was curious with my current location.
If this does use my data does it use a lot?

[EinsteinsGhost]

On my iPhone (AT&T), there is some data usage if I have the map open. Otherwise no.

[DowntownHarrisburg]

Originally Posted by JazzmanLI

So I have a iPhone on a 2GB data plan with Verizon. I've been using the Mapquest app while traveling and I notice it uses my current location. Does this use data? I know all the maps do but was curious with my current location.
If this does use my data does it use a lot?

If it's updating the map to show your current location, then some data is consumed by downloading the map data. Exactly how much varies greatly based on window size and the complexity of the map. Generally, this is a small amount of data.

Note that Verizon lets you check your data usage at any time. Call #DATA and listen to the prompts.

[JazzmanLI]

Thank you everyone! I was leaving it on on my way home to NY to avoid traffic through DC and Baltimore and was hoping this wasn't going to be a hog on my data plan. I saw my dot move along the map and wasn't sure if it was using data.

[Peregrine]

The acutual "locating you" feature is the GPS transponder built in to the phone. This, in and of itself, uses no data. But as has been said, every time you move new map data is downloaded.