Verizon Partially Uncripples GPS Transceiver on Curve/Pearl OS 4.5 Update

Users of HowardForums are confirming that the latest update to BlackBerry OS 4.5 (version ending in .77) on Verizon for the Curve and Pearl enables the internal GPS transceiver to work with BlackBerry Maps.  

When tested with the new functionality, the reports average a lock time of up to a minute for the first lock, with 30 seconds being the norm after each subsequent lock to establish functionality.  

It should be noted that the transceiver access will only work for BlackBerry Maps, as any attempt to use a third party application such as Windows Live Search or Google Maps will result in the GPS access not working, presumably due to the need to update the aforementioned apps to enable recognition of the transceiver.

It is also not known if Verizon has broader plans to fully unlock GPS access on all of its BlackBerry devices as the carrier has stated previously that any third party developer must submit its GPS/LBS applications to be digitally signed before being allowed access to built-in GPS hardware.

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