NAVIGON AG, a leading provider of mobile phone on-board navigation, today announced a significant update for MobileNavigator, the most feature-rich navigation app available on the iPhone platform. In addition to the iOS 4 integration, update 1.6.0 delivers the following new features: Live Weather, Clever Parking, updated NAVTEQ maps, Destination Information Display, Pedestrian Mode Voice Guidance and Enhanced Reality View™ Pro. The new release also brings NAVIGON MyRegion, the regional version of MobileNavigator, to the same feature level as MobileNavigator North America. Available now in iTunes, NAVIGON offers a special update 1.6.0 launch promotion for the first 12 days from launch date: MobileNavigator for $49.99, regular $79.99.
“MobileNavigator 1.6.0 delivers an efficient and informative navigation experience, helping drivers arrive stress-free and on time,” said Gerhard Mayr, vice-president worldwide mobile phones & new markets, NAVIGON. “Today MobileNavigator is the most feature-rich iPhone navigation app available. In the latest update, we not only added new driving related features such as Weather Live and Clever Parking but also improved the way information is presented in our new Destination Information Display.”
Live Weather updates and reports current weather conditions along the route and at the destination in real-time. Ensuring no unpleasant surprises, temperature and weather condition icons appear in the route overview screen before and during navigation. With only a tap a detailed three-day forecast is available. NAVIGON MobileNavigator is the first iPhone navigation app to include a Clever Parking feature, giving drivers the advantage of knowing where and what the best parking options are available around the upcoming location. When approaching the destination, a “P” icon appears in the map view. In one tap an easy to scroll list of all available parking options are available, including distance from location for easy decision-making. The Destination Information Display provides an at-a-glance overview and summary of information pertaining to the destination. Users can customize what is shown in settings/options, such as parking locations, weather information and specific POI’s such as all the restaurants at around the upcoming destination. This delivers an overview of everything important ahead of time, so they know what to expect and where to go when arriving.
Compatible with iOS 4, update 1.6.0 includes the much anticipated multitasking* compatibility, which provides continuous navigation and turn-by-turn directions while running other applications simultaneously. Users can, take a call without sacrificing navigation. While on the go, and receiving a call, the voice guided turn-by-turn directions automatically turn down, heard only by the driver and one tap lets the screen continue routing and navigation information in the map mode. MobileNavigator runs in the background when accessing other apps and functionalities of the iPhone, so the app can continue to automatically calculate and update routing information and provide voice guided turn-by-turn directions. When switching back to MobileNavigator, the user picks up exactly the place where left. The update also includes enhanced Retina display buttons and icons for the iPhone 4.
For those who use MobileNavigator when not behind the wheel, Pedestrian Mode Voice Guidance delivers voice directions as well as voiceover menu guidance. In pedestrian mode users get the same “turn-by-turn” directions as if they were behind the wheel, and can set the voice support to handle navigating within the applications menu options for a more hands free experience. Reality View 3D has also been enhanced, with a new look. Updated and refined graphics make the views of the road even more at-a glance friendly.
Version 1.6.0 Feature Highlights:
Live Weather
Clever Parking
Destination Information Display
iOS 4 integration
Enhanced Retina display buttons and icons for the iPhone 4
Latest NAVTEQ Maps
Pedestrian Mode Voice Guidance
Enhanced Reality View™ Pro and display of street names in the map view
*Note: NAVIGON MyRegion, the regional version of NAVIGON’s iPhone navigation app, has been renamed to MobileNavigator US MyRegion East, Central and West. This takes into account the fact that NAVIGON has updated the MyRegion app to the exact same feature set as MobileNavigator North America, including the In App Purchase Panorama View 3D. The regional version will receive the same updates as MobileNavigator North America in the future; the only difference is the price and the map coverage. NAVIGON MobileNavigator US MyRegion can easily be upgraded to additional regions or a full US map on the go via In App Purchase.
Pricing and Availability:
MobileNavigator is available for $79.99 in the Apple App Store and is equipped with maps of North America from NAVTEQ®. NAVIGON offers a special update 1.6.0 launch promotion for the first 12 days from launch date: MobileNavigator for $49.99. NAVIGON MobileNavigator US MyRegion is available for $17.99 (regular $29.99). Each additional regional map can be accessed as an In App Purchase for $12.99 (regular $14.99).
MobileNavigator 1.6.0 is compatible with iPhone 4, 3GS and 3G. The app also runs on first generation iPhone and iPod Touch, but third party accessories for GPS reception are required for these devices. *iOS4 multitasking is supported by the iPhone 4 and 3GS only.
We told you about TomTom and Darth Vader teaming up to get you where you need to get – no matter what – last month. Now another Jedi Knight, that didn’t fall away to the Dark Side, tries his little green hand at getting you to Point B. Master Yoda from the Star Wars Universe is now available for all TomTom GPS systems sans the iPhone app. Today, the Yoda VoiceSkin is attainable for download at the mere cost of $12.95 with such instructions as, “Right you should turn, then sharp left…control, control, if a Jedi, you wish to be.” If you’re not confused or killed by that instruction, then Yoda offers, “After 200 yards turn right… then bear left…but not to the darkside.” Upon your safe arrival, Yoda utters, “Your destination you have reached. Powerful you have become. Remember the Force will be with you always.”
Resist the Dark Side and join the Rebel Forces with Yoda and many other Star Wars characters today.
CoPilot has been around for years and it’s version 8 number boldly indicates this. I still remember the first version it released for laptops almost a decade ago and now, it’s been shrunk down to the little iPhone screen. CoPilot Live handles the reduced screen real estate quite well placing important information in clear and easy to read parts of the screen while never cluttering it up. Of all the navigation applications I have reviewed, iPhone or stand-alone, I would say CoPilots map interface is the best. But does it get you to your destination the best?
Continue reading the review…
The Magellan RoadMate 1700 is designed to make driving and navigating larger vehicles easier and safer. The extra large 7-inch WVGA full-color display provides four times the standard screen area for enhanced readability allowing the driver to spend more time with their eyes on the road and less on the screen. The Highway Lane Assist feature positions the driver in the proper lane for upcoming lane changes and exits – critical advance notice for larger vehicles. Magellan’s OneTouch user interface gives you instant access to your favorite addresses and searches.
“The Magellan RoadMate 1700 was created for large vehicle drivers to make their journeys safer and easier,” said Mike Wagner, Senior Director of Product Marketing for Magellan. “With its extra large color touch screen, built-in AAA TourBook® and Roadside Assistance, optional extension mount and CoPilot trucker software (sold separately), the Magellan RoadMate 1700 is the ideal travel companion for SUVs, family vacations in the RV or even commercial truck drivers.”
The Magellan RoadMate 1700 includes preloaded maps of the 50 United States, Canada and Puerto Rico; Highway Lane Assist; Spoken Street Names, mini USB 2.0; a Micro SD; Multi-Destination Routing with Route Optimization, and integrated AAA TourBook® travel guide information. A convenient Video-In jack can be used to connect an iPod®, back-up camera or other video source to watch live video on the bright 7” display (cable not included).
Specialized optional accessories allow you to adapt the Magellan RoadMate 1700 to your large vehicle needs. An optional heavy duty Extension Mount brings the GPS navigator up close and personal. With three points of articulation and an extra 12” of extension, no cab is too large to maneuver the display within easy reach. The specialized multi-surface mounting pad will stick directly to vinyl dashboards safely securing the device and avoiding the long reach to the windshield.
The optional CoPilot® Truck Software from ALK industries provides reliable and accurate truck-specific GPS navigation and mapping for drivers of all types and sizes of commercial and recreational vehicles throughout the United States and Canada. The Magellan RoadMate 1700 is now available online and in many retail locations. It includes a windshield mount and cradle, cigarette lighter adapter, protective pouch, USB data cable and an adhesive disk for dash mounting.
The unit retails for $299. For optional accessories, including cases, pouches and additional mounting options, visit http://www.magellangps.com.
The Earthmate PN-60w is the world’s first handheld GPS that enables Type & Send text messaging via satellite. A special interface on the PN-60w connects it wirelessly with the SPOT Satellite Communicator, which was designed exclusively for DeLorme. Messages are created on the PN-60w’s internal keyboard, then relayed via satellite for delivery using established SPOT technology.
Because messages are conveyed via satellite, and are not dependent on cellular phone coverage, the PN-60w with SPOT Satellite Communicator keeps users reliably connected even in remote locations around the world. Both devices are designed to be ruggedized and waterproof and thus better suited than most cell phones for the rigors of outdoor use.
The Teva Mountain Games will be the first opportunity for the public to see the two devices together in action. The DeLorme and SPOT exhibits will be side-by-side in the Gear Town area, located in downtown Vail.
“We’re excited to introduce the Earthmate PN-60w with SPOT Satellite Communicator to serious outdoors enthusiasts at the Teva Mountain Games,” said DeLorme Product Manager Chip Noble. “The ability to navigate confidently in remote locations and stay connected with customized satellite messaging means peace of mind wherever you go.”
Users can type and send text messages to individual email addresses, cell phones, buddy lists, and social networking sites like Twitter, Facebook, Fire Eagle, SpotAdventures.com, or Geocaching.com. In case of emergency, SOS messages can be sent with the user’s GPS coordinates embedded. In addition, family and friends can track a user’s progress via Google’s free online maps.
The Earthmate PN-60w comes with DeLorme Topo North America GPS maps and desktop software included, with topographic and street coverage of the U.S. and Canada. It also displays high-resolution aerial imagery, official USGS and Natural Resources Canada topo maps, and NOAA nautical charts, all available from DeLorme via low-cost subscription. Navionics lake maps and marine charts (sold separately) can also be displayed.
The text messaging, track progress, and emergency SOS/911 features are all activated via subscriptions from SPOT.
VoiceSkins.com, in association with Lucasfilm Ltd. and TomTom, announces the launch of the official Star Wars voices for GPS. Darth Vader’s VoiceSkin is the first Star Wars GPS voice to be made available for download by users of TomTom GPS navigation systems. The voices of Yoda, Han-Solo and C-3PO will be launched over the summer of 2010.
“The TomTom brand is synonymous with high quality navigation. Star Wars fans are sure to be delighted when they hear just how great these voices sound on their TomTom navigation devices,” says Casey Collins, sr. director of international licensing and marketing at Lucas Licensing.
”Star Wars is iconic and the voices from the films are some of the most distinctive and recognisable in popular culture. We are absolutely delighted to bring the official Star Wars voices to TomTom GPS in partnership with Lucasfilm,” said Chris Hilton, CEO of Locutio Voice Technologies, the company behind VoiceSkins.com.
Lord Vader’s menacing voice and signature breathing add a thrilling dimension to TomTom GPS voice commands. Incorporating dialogue inspired by the original films, the Darth Vader VoiceSkin delivers navigation instructions such as: “In 100 yards, take the exit left and do not fail me this time!”, and: “After 800 yards, turn to the left…then… make a U-turn – Obi Wan has taught you well.” And: “Bear left, to the Dark Side. Then in 200 yards you have reached your destination. The Force is with you, but you are not a Jedi yet”.
The Darth Vader voice also features original sound effects from the classic films, including lightsaber sounds and TIE fighter flybys. John Williams’ unforgettable Imperial March music is embedded into certain sections of the navigation commentary. With such audio temptation on offer, Darth Vader will turn all TomTom drivers to the dark side!
“We are thrilled to launch these exclusive Star Wars voices, available only for TomTom devices,” said Tom Murray, senior vice president market development at TomTom, Inc. “Now, Star Wars fans around the world can unite their enthusiasm for Star Wars with their driving experience, making every journey more entertaining and enjoyable.”
Along with the Darth Vader VoiceSkin, Star Wars fans can also download extra content free of charge, including: official Star Wars start-up screen wallpaper; various official warning alerts sounds voiced by Darth Vader; and a Lord Vader map icon.
To celebrate the release of the voices, TomTom is launching a unique Star Wars game where fans can also test their allegiance to the Force, to see if they wish to turn to the dark side.
All Star Wars voices will be available in English to purchasers worldwide, with further languages available throughout the summer.
Darth Vader’s voice is available to all users of TomTom navigation systems for download immediately at $12.95. To hear clips of the voices – and to find out more about them and the Star Wars game – visit
· Website www.voiceskins.com/darthvader
· Video: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2ljFfL-mL70 (Above Video)
· Game: www.tomtom.com/usetheforce
NAVIGON AG, a leading provider of mobile phone on-board navigation, today announced the availability of update 1.5.0 for MobileNavigator, the most feature-rich navigation app available on the iPhone platform. The new update delivers three innovative features: Connection to Facebook and Twitter, Panorama View 3D with 3D terrain views derived from NASA data, and personalized route recommendations via NAVIGON MyRoutes.
“With the our latest iPhone app update NAVIGON continues to expand the navigation functionalities of MobileNavigator, making sure our users have access to the latest NAVIGON innovations ,” said Gerhard Mayr, vice-president worldwide mobile phones & new markets, NAVIGON. “Update 1.5.0 not only redefines routing capabilities on the iPhone platform but also integrates outstanding, reliable 3D environment views and social media connectivity, an industry first feature for on-board iPhone navigation.”
MobileNavigator update 1.5.0 gives users an easy way to broadcast current position, destination and ETA (Estimated Time of Arrival) to favorite social media outlets, Twitter and Facebook, without navigation interruption. The in-app Facebook or Twitter icons seamlessly launch during navigation and Twitter will automatically limit character input to its required maximum 140 characters.
Complementing the elegant iPhone UI, Panorama View 3D is three-dimensional digitized cartography generated from NASA’s height and terrain data. The 3D maps deliver an accurate depiction of surrounding environment, and what lies ahead with landscapes that include elevations, shadows, and geographic images. Panorama View 3D is integrated in-map, independent from the phone’s data connection.
NAVIGON MyRoutes analyzes driving habits, patterns, location, time and day to provide up to three routes clearly displayed in-map with ETA, distance and driving times for each.
Up to three recommendations can be suggested, one primary, and up to two alternatives provide the user with options to choose the preferred course.
MobileNavigator transforms the iPhone into an inclusive navigation device that relies on the GPS receiver, independent from a cell or wireless signal, to provide the most feature rich on-board navigation application. MobileNavigator offers a familiar, yet streamlined user interface that offers intuitive visual feedback and readily accessible connected features, which takes the efficiency of mobile navigation to new heights. It is the only on-board iPhone navigation app available that includes Google Local Search, Reality View™ Pro, branded in-route POI’s, seamless in-app iPod controls, enhanced pedestrian mode, Traffic Live, and now Connection to Facebook and Twitter in one application.
NAVIGON recently announced the availability of MyRegion, a customizable version of MobileNavigator. MyRegion lets users choose which part of the country they use at a price built for all budgets. Available with flexible map choices for the Eastern, Central or Western U.S, the total U.S. map is downloaded upon purchase of the first “MyRegion,” and activation of additional content is accessed via a seamless In App Purchase on the go. NAVIGON MyRegion delivers the same premium feature set as the full North American version, and each region receives the same updates. NAVIGON MyRegion already includes the MyRoutes feature and Connection to Facebook and Twitter as well as Panorama View 3D will become available soon.
Pricing and Availability:
MobileNavigator update 1.5.0 is available for free to all current users. Panorama View 3D is an In App Purchase for $9.99. MobileNavigator with total map access of North America sells for $79.99 in the App Store with no hidden charges or additional monthly fees. NAVIGON MyRegion (Eastern, Central or Western) is available now in iTunes at an introductory price of $24.99 (normally $29.99) until April 12th. Each additional regional map can be accessed as an In App Purchase for an introductory $12.99 (normally $14.99).
Magellan, a leading GPS brand, today announced the launch of the Magellan eXplorist GC, the first dedicated GPS device for geocaching that includes out-of-the-box paperless geocaching, pre-loaded with the most popular geocaches in the world, a brilliant color screen, rich graphics and an easy to use interface all packed into a rugged and waterproof device, that connects seamlessly to http://www.geocaching.com. The Magellan eXplorist GC will ship in April.
Geocaching is a high-tech version of a “treasure hunt,” where adventure seekers use GPS technology to hide and find physical objects, solve location-based puzzles, and share experiences online. Geocaching is enjoyed by people of all ages and promotes a strong sense of community and support for the environment.
The Magellan eXplorist GC GPS receiver is made exclusively for geocaching with an intuitive interface and the ability to sort and search thousands of geocaches. The device has multiple fun and familiar graphics, such as smiley faces for logs and merit-based awards to show off your geocaching expertise.
“Magellan, a leader in GPS and navigation for more than 20 years, is pleased to introduce a dedicated GPS device for geocaching that exceeds the expectations of both novice and seasoned geocachers,” said Justin Doucette, Director, Outdoor Product Marketing for Magellan. “The Magellan eXplorist GC offers an amazing geocaching experience that includes a full end-to-end solution, from accessing geocaching.com to finding hidden treasures all around you to documenting your adventures and sharing with a growing user community of enthusiasts.”
Powered by two AA batteries, the device can provide up to 18 straight hours of outdoor adventure along with a highly-sensitive SiRFstarIII GPS chipset that provides 3-meter accuracy. Geocachers can easily mark finds and quickly add field notes. Additionally, the product comes pre-loaded with common outdoor GPS features such as waypoint creation, a worldwide basemap, active tracking and trip odometer.
The Magellan eXplorist GC GPS device will be introduced at an M.S.R.P. of $199.99. The unit will ship with a USB cable and 2 lithium disposable AA batteries. With the purchase of a Magellan eXplorist GC GPS device customers will receive a 30-day free premium membership to http://www.geocaching.com. Details and conditions of this offer are available at http://www.magellangps.com/exploristgc.
Magellan, the exclusive 2010 sponsor of Geocaching.com’s Cache In Trash Out (CITO), will host a CITO event in the San Francisco Bay Area in the month of April. CITO is an ongoing environmental initiative supported by the worldwide geocaching community, dedicated to cleaning up parks and other cache-friendly places around the world to help preserve the natural beauty of our outdoor resources. Details will be available soon at http://www.magellangps.com.
NAVIGON AG, a world-leading provider of mobile navigation solutions, today announced the launch of NAVIGON MyRegion in the Apple App Store. NAVIGON MyRegion is a customizable version of NAVIGON’S popular iPhone navigation app, MobileNavigator, with regional map access for the East, Central or Western U.S. It is the first iPhone navigation app that lets users upgrade to additional regions within the app and on the go, providing cross country navigation at choice. The total U.S. map is downloaded upon purchase of the first “MyRegion,” which allows activation of additional map regions via a seamless In App Purchase from the application. NAVIGON MyRegion delivers the same premium feature set currently available in the North American version, MobileNavigator, and each version will receive the same updates. Access to the first region is available an introductory price of $24.99 (normally $29.99) until April 12th with no hidden charges or additional monthly fees. Each regional map can be accessed as an In App Purchase for an introductory $12.99 (normally $14.99) MobileNavigator with map access for all of North America (including Eastern, Central and Western U.S. as well as Canada) is available for $79.99.
“NAVIGON MyRegion gives our customers the power of choice to only access the areas they use, enabling a customized and tailor-made navigation experience at a price built for all budgets,” said Gerhard Mayr, NAVIGON vice-president worldwide mobile phones and new markets. “At the same time we are providing our customers the peace of mind of being able to upgrade to additional regions and cross country navigation later on, independent of additional downloads.”
NAVIGON MyRegion includes all the features and capabilities as MobileNavigator 1.4 plus NAVIGON MyRoutes. This new feature will be added to MobileNavigator North America via an upcoming update to 1.5.0 due this spring. NAVIGON MyRoutes is an industry first feature that learns from the users driving style to provide customized and better route recommendations. The feature also offers up to two alternative routes clearly displayed on a map including ETA, distance and driving time. This lets user choose the route that best serves their individual situation.
NAVIGON MyRegion offers a familiar, yet streamlined user interface that offers intuitive visual feedback and readily accessible connected features, which takes the efficiency of mobile navigation to new heights. It is the most feature rich navigation solution for the iPhone and transforms the Apple phone into a premium navigation device. NAVIGON MyRegion provides turn-by-turn directions independent of a cell or wireless signal, since the full map material is saved on the iPhone. It is the only iPhone navigation solution that includes Google Local Search, Reality View™ Pro, branded in-route POI’s, seamless in app iPod controls, enhanced pedestrian mode, NAVIGON MyRoutes, and Traffic Live in one application. Traffic Live provides crowd sourced real-time traffic information to calculate better routes that avoid congestion and get drivers to their destination faster. The feature is available as an in app one-time purchase at a promotional price of $19.99 until April 12th (normally $24.99).
NAVIGON is dedicated to delivering premium navigation software for multiple mobile phone platforms. The company recently launched MobileNavigator for Windows Phone and announced an application for Android phones.
Magellan, one of the leading GPS brands, today announced an innovative new vehicle mount for the iPhone 3G, iPhone 3GS and second generation iPod touch. With a built-in GPS receiver for improved navigation accuracy, the Premium Car Kit features an amplified speaker for crystal clear directions and enhanced Bluetooth hands-free calling and clear turn-by-turn directions.
For iPod touch 2G users, the GPS receiver in the Magellan Premium Car Kit allows true navigation functionality, turning the iPod touch into a complete car navigation system. Once the iPod touch is connected to the Premium Car Kit, a separate Bluetooth enabled mobile phone can be connected to it via Bluetooth for hands-free calling.
“Building on the ease of the Magellan RoadMate app, we are proud to introduce a cutting-edge Premium Car Kit that gives our consumers the entire in-car navigation experience from their iPhone or iPod touch,” said Peggy Fong, Chief Operating Officer for Magellan.
Features of the Premium Car Kit include the following:
Secure vehicle mounting for iPhone or iPod touch
Accommodates most silicon skins and hard shell cases
Adjustable mount securely rotates iPhone to either portrait or landscape mode for optimal positioning and widescreen route display
Recharges battery via the vehicle power outlet
Amplified speaker with volume control for loud and clear phone calls and directions
Noise canceling microphone for full duplex speakerphone operation
Auxiliary audio output (for connection to your car stereo)
Works with all navigation applications (including the Magellan RoadMate for iPhone application)
Bluetooth enables hands-free calling
Available now for pre-order, the car kit will retail for $129.99 and will be available at Amazon.com, Best Buy, and MagellanGPS.com.