The use of Global positioning system (GPS) receivers has increasingly become affordable to the masses during the last 18 months, as these units are now available for less than $100.

A number of other recently studies conducted, worldwide, also examines the market for GPS integrated circuits (ICs). Though unit growth will be very strong in the GPS market, continued pricing pressure for ICs will temper overall revenue growth to about that of the overall equipment market.

The latest development and evolution of surveying and mobile mapping technologies opens new avenues for the acquisition, update, fast, and real-time online processing of data. Currently mobile mapping systems are supported by a series of advanced technologies, including GPS and inertial navigation systems (INS), imaging sensors of high-resolution charge coupled device (CCD) camera, satellite synthetic aperture radar (SAR), multi spectral and hyper spectral sensors, portable computers and highly intelligent processing/automation algorithms.

Experts, Analysts, Corporate Heads Believe that the current role of government in global competition for GPS-related sales is relatively limited, largely involving regulatory matters such as certification of GPS in safety-of-life applications and export controls on military-grade GPS equipment.

'This consistent growth in existing markets along with the emerging applications, has forecasted the global GPS market to reach $ 22bn by 2008.' Quotes a Technology & Market research firm RNCOS.

Talking about the technological front of GPS Industry Market, Experts at RNCOS believe that, 'GPS is the engine driving much of the telematics industry. It has also reformed the automotive platform by enabling tracking a teen's use of the family car to automatic tax collection for interstate trucking companies'.

The study, 'World Global Positioning Systems Market Update (2006-2008)' examines the current status and trends of the global positioning systems industry. Covered areas include wireless and in-vehicle navigation, as well as growing segments such as recreation, communication, people tracking, marine and surveying, among others.

As per the report the Analysts at RNCOS predict that 'Although new GPS markets are anticipated to reach mass-market status increasing at a rapid speed with unit sales expected to reach 30 million by 2010 the GPS industry will continue to spin off new application markets followed by demand for Satellite radio valued 15.7 million in next 5 years.'

For each segment, total market value is forecasted to 2008 in addition to regional totals. An analysis of key market drivers and barriers for each segment is presented. The report also quantifies the market for GPS IC shipments, ASP and revenue to 2008.