The wifi version does NOT have a gps.
SkyHook provides WPS data for the iPad/iPhone/iTouch devices, works surprisingly well, but of course not when you want it...
http://www.skyhookwireless.com/howitworks/wps.php
The iPad 3G version will supposedly be out end of April.
The 3G version uses XPS,
http://www.skyhookwireless.com/howitworks/xps.php
So besides the terms, what does it mean ?
For wifi - if you stay on street level it works surprisingly well.
For 3G - assuming you get a tower fix BEFORE you go airborne it also works.
Just don't expect to pick up any GPS fixes while airborne and out of coverage, it will most likely never pick up a fix for you...
Please, stay in coverage when you start ALL 'location services' applications. If they cache data they will work once you reach 'no service' areas as well.
But again, if you QUIT the app once in a 'no service' are don't expect to the app to find you again.
So - once the 3G comes out, or if you're willing to 'jailbreak' your device you can use your device offline.
Again, I really don't say anyone should jailbreak their devices, but Apple, please let people pair up GPS devices without having to do something drastic.
For the record: since I need a clean environment for development, I have NOT any jail-broken devices, but I have reports at least the iTouch works with
external GPS devices. Search the forum please..
Someone can probably fill in on the iPad jailbreak status. Again, this is NOT recommended, last time I heard you will VOID your warranty if Apple finds out you did.
So there's some conflicting info? Does it have a gps or not?
Will the 3g have real gps or cell phone triangulation?
Point being...is there an app that will deliver the charts/plates in a georeferenced fashion?