Can the GPS system be used as internet / other connectivity?

[MirceaKitsune]

This is probably a weird question and most likely impossible, but still wanted to know. It might also be a general technical question, so I hope this is the right thread.

Let's say I'm in an area where there's no cell coverage and also no WIFI, and I want to connect to the internet. Above me there might be satellites of sorts, either GPS or internet ones. Are there any applications or hacks that could allow the GPS system / chip of my phone to work as an internet connection?

GPS is of course intended for finding one's position on a map only (such as Google Maps). But technically, it's still a way to communicate with a third party device. Depending on the implementation, it might be possible to use the chip to connect to satellite internet or other devices... perhaps with a hacked driver or special application?

Anyone know to what extent this is possible? Otherwise, can the GPS system be used for any other type of connectivity and transmission than just getting your position in the world? What tricks does the GPS system allow overall with custom tools?

[RichH]

Nice idea - Hopefully someone has thought of it before and has an answer

[stonkr]

It's my understanding the GPS signal is one way only, from the satellite to earth.

I also understand it's really weak by the time it reaches us so would most likely not be of use for any kind of data transmission anyhow.

Then again, I could be wrong...

[MirceaKitsune]

Well I am also curious if the GPS chip / system in the phone could be used to communicate not only with satellites, but for instance with long-range radio antennas at ground level. If it's one-way only, could it still be used to stream audio, video or a website through it (read-only), right? Again I'm partly wondering this for technical curiosities... not like anything beats a normal internet connection

[greenman]

Not sure the American military would be too keen on using their GPS for entertainment purposes!!
Within your phone you already have devices capable of doing what you ask:
- GPS receives signals from geostationary satellites
- FM radio
- sim card/network chip
- bluetooth
- wifi

Could GPS be used for the functions you mention?
Well, yes, after all GPS are simply using another wavelength in the vast spectrum, to transmit data. But like most data streams, they work better when carrying out one task.
Imagine radio 1 and 4 transmitting on the same wavelength - ok it is possible, but why do it?