Abstract: Systems and methods are provided for controlling a mobile device, in which a processor receives a first accelerometer signal representative of motion of the mobile device. The processor determines a variation in the first accelerometer signal, and sets an acceleration threshold based at least in part on the determined variation. When a second accelerometer signal exceeds the acceleration threshold, the processor measures a position of the mobile device using a positioning system, determines that a user of the mobile device is likely in control of a vehicle, and disables one or more mobile device features.

Abstract: Systems and methods are provided for selectively invoking a positioning system in mobile device control applications. A processor receives a measurement representative of wireless networks in an environment of a mobile device, and evaluates the first measurement using first criteria. In response to determining that the first measurement satisfies the first criteria, a positioning system is invoked to receive a position measurement of the mobile device, and the operation of the mobile device is controlled according to the position measurement. When the first measurement does not satisfy the first criteria, the processor invokes the positioning system at a later time.