As you probably know from finding your way to this blog, most online discussions regarding the iPad GPS are long-winded with unnecessary technical details. Therefore, I will try and keep this short and sweet, giving you everything you need to know about the iPad GPS.
First and foremost, the iPad (WiFi-only) does not have a GPS chip, and therefore your location information, and subsequent use of this information, is largely governed by your proximity to WiFi access (and only gives the location of the WiFi access point, not your device). The iPad (WiFi + 3G) model has a built-in assisted GPS chip. This means that with this model you have full GPS capabilities, with or without WiFi and/or 3G coverage. The term "assisted GPS" simply means that the internal GPS has the capability to use a combination of WiFi, 3G Coverage, and GPS to triangulate your location faster, with less battery power, and with a greater degree of accuracy in poor overhead/overcast situations. This is a very valuable tool when one is typically restricted by tree cover (but still not as accurate as clear conditions).
That being said, I have used the iPad's GPS both with and without WiFi/3G and have seen little difference. In both cases (with cellular data/WiFi turned off and while assisted by 3G/WiFi coverage) I was able to reach a maximum of a 5 meter accuracy. I was also able to reach this level of accuracy in both clear and overcast weather situations. Briefly put, the fact that the iPad (WiFi + 3G model) has an internal GPS chip and the WiFi-only model does not, brings up an extremely important consideration in choosing which iPad model to buy. I would highly recommend spending the extra money to get the 3G model, given that spatial information is arguably one of the most valuable features for any field researcher. Overall, I am very pleased with the iPad's GPS and even more-so with its response time to reach a 5 meter accuracy.
Image Reference: (GIS Development 2006)
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