In GPS systems, what does the user segment consist of?

The user segment of GPS systems is fundamentally composed of the devices that receive GPS signals. This includes handheld GPS units, smartphones, and other navigation devices equipped with GPS receivers. These devices play a critical role in the GPS system by utilizing the signals transmitted by satellites to determine their geographic location, navigate, and provide various location-based services. The user segment interacts directly with the satellite signals to compute positions, velocities, and times based on the data received. This functionality is what enables users to benefit from GPS technology in practical applications like navigation, mapping, and tracking.