Abstract: Methods and systems are described for selectively invoking a positioning system for a mobile device. In some implementations, first and second signals are received from first and second non-position-based sensors, respectively, each representative of a context of the mobile device. A processor determines whether the mobile device is in motion based on at least one of the first and second signals; and in response to determining that the mobile device is in motion, a positioning system is invoked to receive a position measurement of the mobile device. The processor determines whether a user of the mobile device is likely in control of a vehicle; and in response to determining that the user is likely in control of a vehicle, the operation of the mobile device is restricted.

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.