Favorite Smartphone Soaring Apps

On Nov 14, 10:34*pm, David Reitter wrote:
I have an iPhone (and have had previous models) and wholeheartedly
recommend it as a smartphone for convenience and reliability. *That
said, be aware of the total cost of ownership (phone plus expensive
plan for two years, or GSM-only contract-free phone plus cheap plan.)
A number of aviation-related apps are available, many of them very
cheaply. *In-flight use isn't so great - no matter what software (and
XCSoar doesn't run), the battery drain is substantial when GPS is
running and data transfer takes place.

I also picked up a lightly used Dell Streak 5 Android PDA/tablet/phone
for use as glide computer. *It cost me only US$200 and offers the best
screen among the portable, open-platform systems. *It can easily be
powered and installing/updating XCSoar is a snap. *At that price, I
don't see why one needs to compromise functionality. * What Max
Kellermann says in this thread is true. *(The Streak is too big for a
phone unless you carry a (man-)purse.)

Many Android smart phones will make a poor in-flight glide computer
due to their displays alone; do your research before you buy one.

PS.: there's an article in the current Soaring Magazine about PDAs,
but I find it fairly biased.

Speaking of battery drain, it is very true. Regardless of type, iphone
vs android phone or tablet, battery life is greatly reduced with
ongoing GPS use. On Amazon.com, i searched for solar cell phone
chargers and for less than $30, I got a small solar charger that is
the dimensions as the phone itself. While not strong enought to power
the device fully if it's battery is fully discharged, it will greatly
extend it's life. It also has a built in battry that can hold a
charge so it can be plugged in to provide power and recharge the
phone's battery. Would hate to land out, and find there's not enough
battery left in the phone to make the call for a retrieve.