GPS Kit HD 8.0.4

GPS Kit HD 8.0.4

Garafa, LLC  ❘ Commercial
iOS
Latest Version
8.0.4
Safe to install

GPS Kit HD — powerful waypoint, track and sharing tools for iOS with a dated interface

Minh Ong

GPS Kit HD from Garafa, LLC is a feature-rich iOS app for recording tracks, saving waypoints, exporting KML/GPX, and sharing precise coordinates (including background tracking), though its UI and occasional lack of modern polish limit the experience compared with newer navigation apps.
2026 Editor's Rating

TIME Magazine has recognized the device as one of its “15 Fantastic Gadgets,” noting it is “perfect for hiking or mountain biking.”

TUAW.com highlighted the GPS Kit app’s versatility, stating that “it has a number of excellent outdoor uses, especially for hiking, biking, or geocaching.”

NBC’s ‘The Browser’ Radio Show mentioned that the product is “most beneficial for adventure-type guys.”

GPS Kit is a high-performance navigation solution designed for outdoor enthusiasts and professionals operating in remote environments.

GPS Kit HD leverages the larger display to offer a fully immersive experience, enabling simultaneous viewing of detailed menus and comprehensive map data to provide enhanced contextual information.

Regarding device compatibility: the 4G/LTE model of the iPad offers superior GPS reception even without an internet connection. Conversely, the Wi-Fi only version does not utilize true GPS hardware; thus, while functional, its location accuracy may be limited.

The application is suitable for a broad range of outdoor activities including hiking, hunting, camping, GIS field operations, research, skiing, cycling, geocaching, mountain biking, motorcycling, off-roading, fishing, and other adventures—regardless of location.

Highest Quality Mapping

  • Fastest map rendering available in the App Store
  • Elegant and responsive user interface
  • Offline Mode supports use in areas without cellular coverage or data connectivity
  • Extensive customization options for various map types

Efficient Data Management

  • Share links via email for Google Earth and other map viewers, including mobile browsers
  • Visualize historical data through full-color thumbnails of past excursions
  • Group tracks and waypoints for organized record-keeping
  • Flexible import/export options supporting KML, KMZ, and GPX formats via email or iTunes allows easy transfer via USB
  • Social media sharing capabilities for Facebook and Twitter

Advanced Waypoint Functions

  • Add photos and notes to waypoints with on-map display
  • Drag map to adjust position with real-time coordinate updates
  • Support for UTM, USNG, MGRS coordinate systems
  • Create waypoints quickly via long-press actions
  • Navigational guidance utilizing magnetic compass against waypoints
  • Real-time distance updates to selected waypoints displayed on the map

Weather Station Features (U.S. Only)

  • Create customizable weather stations for real-time point forecasts
  • Obtain localized weather data relevant to specific sites like fishing spots or ski routes
  • Information sourced from the National Weather Service

Smart Data Collection Techniques

  • Utilizes highest GPS accuracy settings available
  • Satellite positioning functions even without cell signal on compatible devices (iPad 3G)
  • Auto-segmentation ensures accurate track recording without overlaps or errors

Customizable Dashboard Interface

  • Sleek high-contrast display designed for outdoor visibility
  • A broad array of parameters including time metrics, elevation changes, coordinate formats (Lat/Long, UTM, MGRS, USNG), accuracy measures, speed statistics, odometer readings, and directional information can be tailored to user preferences.
  • Dashboard includes three configurable cells overlaid on the map for quick data access.

Additional Utilities and Features

  • Graphs depicting elevation profiles and speed trends
  • A multi-touch ruler tool for accurate distance measurement directly on the map

Please note that prolonged use of GPS functionality in the background may significantly impact battery life.

Overview

GPS Kit HD is a Commercial software in the category Education developed by Garafa, LLC.

The latest version of GPS Kit HD is 8.0.4, released on 02/04/2026. It was initially added to our database on 02/04/2026.

GPS Kit HD runs on the following operating systems: iOS.

Users of GPS Kit HD gave it a rating of 1 out of 5 stars.

Pros

  • Supports external GPS receivers (Bluetooth/serial) and can use their higher-accuracy data instead of the device’s internal GPS
  • Can log raw NMEA and GPS tracks for later analysis or export
  • Exports/imports common formats (GPX, KML, CSV) making it easy to move data to mapping/GIS tools
  • Offers a wide range of coordinate formats and datum/coordinate conversion options (useful for surveyors, mariners, and international use)
  • Waypoint management (create, edit, name, save) and basic navigation-to-waypoint functionality
  • Provides on-screen numeric readouts and a simple compass/heading display for precise readings
  • Relatively lightweight and focused on GPS data and logging rather than heavy map-tile usage
  • No subscription model (one-time purchase historically) — straightforward licensing

Cons

  • User interface and visual design are dated compared with modern iOS apps; can feel clunky to new users
  • App historically has infrequent updates — may have compatibility issues with the latest iOS versions or newer devices
  • Limited or outdated map sourcing/online map integration compared with contemporary navigation apps (fewer built-in base maps)
  • Documentation and in-app help can be sparse or technical; steep learning curve for non-technical users
  • Bluetooth pairing and external GPS integration can require manual configuration and troubleshooting
  • Lacks many modern conveniences such as seamless cloud sync, live online basemaps with smooth tile rendering, or integrated route planning/routing
  • Support responsiveness may be limited (small developer) and community/user forum activity is low
  • Not optimized for newer large-screen devices or the latest hardware features (e.g., no advanced sensors integration or modern UI layout enhancements)

FAQ

What is GPS Kit HD?

GPS Kit HD is a GPS utility app for iPhone and iPad from Garafa, LLC that provides precise coordinates, track recording, waypoint management, coordinate conversions, and map display for navigation, surveying, and outdoor use.

Which coordinate formats and units does GPS Kit HD support?

GPS Kit HD supports multiple coordinate formats (decimal degrees, degrees/minutes/seconds, UTM, MGRS and others) and common unit systems (metric and imperial) so you can view and copy coordinates in the format you need.

Can I record tracks and export them?

Yes. The app records GPS tracks (breadcrumbs) with configurable logging intervals. Recorded tracks and waypoints can be exported in common formats such as GPX and KML for use in mapping software or sharing.

Does GPS Kit HD work offline or with cached maps?

GPS Kit HD can display downloaded or cached map tiles so you can continue to view maps when you are offline. You can also use a plain coordinate readout and compass view without a base map when no data connection is available.

Can I use an external Bluetooth GPS receiver with GPS Kit HD?

Yes. The app supports external GPS receivers that connect to your iOS device via Bluetooth or the iOS External Accessory framework. When connected, GPS Kit HD will use the external receiver for position, heading and accuracy data.

How do I import and manage waypoints and tracks?

You can create waypoints inside the app, or import GPX/KML files via the iOS Files app, AirDrop, email attachments, or by opening files from other apps. Imported items appear in your waypoint/track lists for viewing, editing, exporting or deletion.

How do I export logs, tracks or waypoints from GPS Kit HD?

Exports are available in standard formats (GPX/KML). You can share exported files via Mail, AirDrop, save to Files, or open them in other apps. Some versions also allow direct upload or FTP—check the app’s export/share menu for available options.

What settings control tracking accuracy and battery usage?

GPS Kit HD provides configurable logging intervals and distance filters so you can balance recording detail against battery consumption. Reducing logging frequency or using significant-change updates will conserve battery, while higher-frequency logging gives finer tracks but uses more power.

Is GPS Kit HD compatible with the latest iOS and iPadOS?

GPS Kit HD requires a supported iOS/iPadOS version. Check the app’s page on the App Store for current compatibility and required OS version. If you have an older device or OS, verify compatibility before updating.

Where can I get help or support for GPS Kit HD?

For help, consult the app’s Support or Help section (in-app or on the developer’s website), or contact the developer through the App Store listing. The Support area provides usage notes, troubleshooting tips, and instructions for importing/exporting data and connecting external receivers.


Minh Ong

Minh Ong

I'm Minh, a software engineer and author with a passion for exploring and writing about the latest in software and technology. With my experience in software development and a specialization in software updates and content creation, I bring a deep understanding of the tech landscape to my reviews and articles. My focus is on providing you with comprehensive insights into general software topics and the latest industry news.

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