Navigation software maker NAVIGON is out with a new version of its application for Android smartphones, touting it as the first such product that allows users to “manage their maps within the app” and select which regions to download to their device. As far as I know, this is something Nokia has been doing for quite some time now with Ovi Maps… or I’m missing something?
Anyway, that map management (MyMaps) feature is only one part of the equation. NAVIGON 4.0 also rocks other new capabilities, including:
- FreshMaps – quarterly map updates from NAVTEQ. Users can keep their maps accurate for a one-time fee for the lifetime of the product.
- New UI which adapts to the screen size of the device. On smaller screens, NAVIGON displays fewer menu icons so you can see more of the overview screen. It’s worth adding that this release is compatible with Honeycomb and can be used on Android tablets.
- Cockpit Function – available via in-app purchase for $4.95, it displays relevant driving data in real-time on a cockpit-like screen. Captured data includes speed, acceleration, and elevation for last 30 minutes or last quarter mile.
- Zagat Survey – another optional add-on that can be bought for $7.95. It includes ratings and reviews of over 40,000 restaurants, hotels, attractions, golf courses, nightspots, and other leisure activities.
- Emergency Help – for quick access to distance information to the nearest police station, hospital, pharmacy or gas station.
- Traffic Live – INRIX-powered add-on that brings real-time traffic information for $19.95. It also alerts drivers to traffic problems and automatically calculates alternative routes so they can avoid congestion.
The NAVIGON for USA and NAVIGON for North America Android apps are available for $27.95 and $37.95, respectively. Existing NAVIGON customers will get the new version free of charge…
MobileNavigator USA [Android Market link]
MobileNavigator USA & Canada [Android Market link]