Not sure about phone but portable GPS's work fine in an airplane. The problem is they don't have any aviation database in them.
 
While they may work, the database wont be of much use to a pilot in the air.

But, strictly as a backup, it could at least give you an idea of where you are
 
We do..

......quite often, actually. Several years ago, I used a cheapie Magellan ($139.00) as primary to fly a 150 mile trip.:)

It's just a spoiler to have a 496 with the entire AOPA flight manual in its database..Nearest towns, ARTCC freqs, airports, FSS's. real-time weather...etc....a real little wonder.

Regards,