Cell phone Global Positioning Systems (GPS) were not a common thing until 2005. Most cell phones that have a GPS now can only be used to track the closest available 911 center and nothing else. Using a cell phone to get turn-by-turn directions often times requires a more sophisticated software package and the appropriate compatibility.

E911 Program

The E911 (Enhanced 911) Program created by the FCC in 2005 required that cell phones have GPS capability. A person can contact their cell phone carrier to find out when their phone was built and if it has E911 capability. If the service provider does not know, then it may be necessary to contact the manufacturer of the phone.

E911 Phones

Phones with E911 capability are able to track and use the appropriate 911 center in case there is an emergency. It allows law enforcement and other emergency services to track you position within 50 to 100 meters.

Limitations

The E911 program only allows the phone to track the closest 911 center. To use a phone to get turn by turn directions, it needs to have the right capabilities.

Smart Phones

Smart phones, such as a Blackberry, often have the compatibility to get turn-by-turn directions from your phone. The phone service carrier should be able to tell if a phone has this capability.

History

Before E911, cell phone users who did not have a GPS capable phone had to rely on knowing their general location in case of emergency. Now, with E911, emergency responders are able to locate the emergency faster and respond quicker than they had in the past.

Source:

Map-GPS-Info.com: GPS Cell Phone - Portable Navigation and Safety