GPS (Global Positioning System) technology, primarily designed for navigation, has evolved to become an integral part of various unexpected applications in our daily lives. While navigation remains its fundamental purpose, advancements in satellite communication have given rise to unique and unconventional uses of GPS technology.
1. Tracking Prescription Medications:
- GPS aids in combating theft of addictive painkillers like Oxycodone.
- Empty medication bottles are equipped with GPS trackers to monitor and trace stolen shipments.
- Proprietary GPS technology ensures reliability by discreetly blending into large shipments.
2. Tracking People:
- GPS finds application in tracking elderly individuals and patients with progressive memory disorders.
- Concealed GPS devices, like SmartSoles, are placed in the soles of shoes for discreet monitoring.
- Real-time location tracking alerts caregivers, and geofencing options provide additional security.
3. Driverless Cars:
- Google’s self-driving cars leverage GPS technology for autonomous navigation.
- Advanced GPS systems, combined with sensors and cameras, guide driverless cars through complex traffic scenarios.
- The evolution from traditional navigation assistance to enabling fully autonomous vehicles is a remarkable progression.
4. Preventing Shark Attacks:
- Coastal areas prone to shark attacks benefit from GPS technology.
- Marine organizations tag sharks with active GPS trackers.
- Lifeguards receive real-time updates, allowing them to warn beachgoers and prevent potential shark encounters.
5. Pet Tracking:
- GPS-enabled pet tracker collars sync with smartphones for real-time location monitoring.
- Collars, such as Paw Tracker, Gibi Pet Locator, and Tractive GPS Tracker, offer peace of mind for pet owners.
- Extended battery life ensures prolonged usage, alleviating concerns about pet safety during brief absences.
As GPS technology continues to evolve, its versatility extends beyond conventional navigation, enriching our lives in unexpected and innovative ways. From safeguarding prescription medications to enhancing pet safety, GPS’s unconventional applications underscore its significance in diverse aspects of modern living.