[ghaff]

I can't get the number of satellites out of iOS but I can absolutely get a lat/long and accuracy. (Android you can get the number of satellites.)

Yes, you need to know how to use your phone and download the appropriate app(s) and maps while connected to the Internet. And you should probably have an external battery pack.

And many people won't prepare before setting out. But I'm not sure how different that is from a dedicated GPS unit or even map/compass. The only thing I use my ancient dedicated waterproof Garmin GPS for is sea kayaking so I don't risk my phone.

[msrenee]

I guess it just comes down to preparation then. A cell phone with maps downloaded is probably more convenient than a GPS with maps downloaded. I just don't think it's going to help much for the sort of situations that are being discussed in the thread where adequate research and planning were not done even though those things (albeit in less digital form) were absolutely available at that time as well.