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Navigon 2.0 arrives for iPhone with new name, lets users download maps by state (video)
Navigation junkies have been pining for Navigon's latest MobileNavigator application ever since our sneak preview at CTIA, but that wait is now over -- at least for iPhone constituents. To mark its arrival, the app was re-branded as Navigon 2.0, and yes, it's a free upgrade for current users. Most notably, the software now enables individuals to selectively load maps into their iPhone on a state-by-state basis -- thereby creating extra headroom for more important uses. Additionally, Navigon fans will also discover a completely re-designed user interface along with an in-app purchase function that delivers quarterly map updates. Now through November 30th, new users may purchase Navigon 2.0 for $20 off the normal price of $49.99 for the United States or Canada, and $59.99 for all of North America. Curious to see it in action? We've included a demo video and the full PR just beyond the break.
Navigon demos upcoming MobileNavigator for iOS and Android, latest Windows Phone app (video)
So, get this. We were cruising through the halls of Pepcom's Mobile Focus with a horrible fever and on the brink of delirium. Unsure how much longer we could keep composure, we came upon Navigon's booth. In addition to displaying its brand new Windows Phone application, the company was also showing off its upcoming releases of MobileNavigator for Android and iOS. Fortunately, Navigon's Public Relations Manager, Johan-Till Broer, was kind enough to give us a demo of each app. Among the new features, users will be able to select individual states for local map storage, which goes a long way toward freeing up space. Additionally, there's also a driving mode called Cockpit, which allows leadfoots to check their speed and acceleration over the last 30 minutes. The app updates will be free to all existing users, although if you want to load up new maps, that'll be a one-time fee. We're told to expect these latest gems in a couple of months. As for the Windows Phone version, it sells for $50, although is currently available for $30 -- at special introductory pricing. A demo video and full PR is just after the break. Be sure to check it out. %Gallery-136410%
Navigon MobileNavigator for iOS updated with augmented reality, safety camera features
Navigon just recently rolled out a stylish iPhone Car Kit for use with its iOS navigation app, and it's now also announced a fairly significant update to the app itself. In addition to all the usual basic navigation features, MobileNavigator 1.8 now also boasts an augmented reality component dubbed the "Reality Scanner" that overlays points of interest on top of a live camera view, as well as a new "Safety Cameras" feature that warns you of speed and red light cameras (available as an in-app purchase for $4.99). What's more, Navigon has also dropped its prices across the board for the occasion -- the full app with maps for all of North America will now set you back just $45 until April 18th, while versions for just the US or Canada run $35 apiece. Full press release is after the break.
Navigon introduces the Design Car Kit at Macworld 2011
We are live on the ground in San Francisco this week for Macworld 2011, and one of our first meetings was with Navigon, which has reinvented itself in the US over the past few years, going from a company that makes personal navigation devices to strictly a software company thanks to the MobileNavigator iOS app and its variants. The overall smartphone nav app market has grown by 117 percent in the last few years, and largely due to the iPhone app (which reached 1 million downloads last August, a number made much more impressive when you realize the app usually sells for US$50 and up), that's pushed Navigon's own growth hugely as well. In the past year, the company released version 1.7 of the software, which added improvements in the form of a paid in-app Zagat rating tie-in as well as free updates, like Google Local information. The last update also added across-the-board compatibility with the iPad, and Navigon told me that many of its iPad users were not using Apple's tablet in the car itself, but at home to plan out and see in motion the routes they later transferred over to their mobile devices. The company hasn't released any hardware in the US for a few years (though "our main business is still hardware" in Europe, they said), but that will change with the Design Car Kit, an iPhone 4 holding stand that attaches via suction cup to your car's window -- it's designed to hold your iPhone while it runs MobileNavigator (or any other app, really -- there is a charging cable included that's "extra long" for easy access, but there are no electronics in the kit itself). Navigon told me that they thought there was a place for a quality holder on the market, and the device certainly seems well-designed, with the suction cup attaching via a release that won't let go easily when locked down.
Navigon's MobileNavigator 1.7 update adds universal iPad integration, Retina Display support, and more
We've maintained for quite some time that Navigon's MobileNavigator app was leaps and bounds better than most of the similarly priced alternatives, and if you just so happen to already own it, you can look forward to a rather sizable update this morning. The newest build -- which should be percolating through the iTunes tunnels as we speak -- takes things to v1.7, and it essentially includes a half-dozen new features: universal iPad integration, Zagat Survey, Active Lane Assistant, Map Reporter, enhanced Retina Display support and new user notifications. Furthermore, the outfit's announcing a series of free single-feature apps for the iPhone in 2011, with help2park launching today; as you might imagine, this one assists in finding a parking space nearby, and it's being offered gratis. The outfit has alerted us that all MobileNavigator US MyRegion apps should see the update right about now, while the USA and North America versions will "follow soon." Oh, and if you're curious about those new add-ons, the Zagat will cost you $7.99 (it's on sale at the moment for $5.99), Traffic Live will run $19.99 and the Panorama View 3D tacks on another $9.99. The full skinny is just after the break, per usual.
Navigon MobileNavigator finally hits American Androids, includes augmented reality POI view
We got our first taste of Navigon's MobileNavigator for Android way back at CES last January, and since then Googlephone users across Europe have been merrily navigating around using the thing. Finally, Americans get our chance, with Navigon announcing a North American release. This version includes maps of the good 'ol US of A, downloaded to the storage card (1.5GB worth) to enable full offline navigation, though you'll need a connection to get traffic updates. There's an improved Reality View Pro mode, which shows "photo realistic 3D views" of street signs and, the cream of this frothy app, a new Reality Scanner mode. This Layar-like view overlays nav and POI information over a real-time stream of the world from the phone's camera, letting you spot that Stuckey's from afar. The app hits the Android Market today for $39, but that's one of those limited time deals. After two weeks it jumps up to $59, so don't be slow with the clicking. %Gallery-105975%
Navigon's MobileNavigator comes to US Android devices
Germany navigation firm Navigon's turn-by-turn app for Android has been available in some European countries for much of the year, but it's hitting the US for the first time this week. Major features include the so-called "Reality Scanner," Navigon's take on augmented reality, lane-level navigation, a database of speed and red light cameras (seriously, don't go through red lights, okay?), and "MyRoutes," offering you a selection of up to three routes to your destination based on your driving habits. It's available in the Android Market starting today; Navigon's running a two-week special for $39.99, after which it'll go up to $59.99. Follow the break for the full press release.
iPhone GPS navigation head-to-head review
Nobody likes getting lost, and nobody likes paying too much for a reheated lunch at a franchise restaurant when there's a mouthwatering family joint hiding just around the corner. Wouldn't you know it, there's an app that solves those problems -- quite a few of the things, as it turns out. Following up on our earlier look at non-iPhone GPS apps, we took a look at the top iPhone navigation choices in the App Store and narrowed it down to the five below, then threw in a no charge option for kicks, covering a range of prices from free to upwards of $120 per year. As it turns out there's a very tangible difference between the discount and the "premium" options here, but is that extra really worth it? Read on to find out.
Navigon chops MobileNavigator into three regions, pick any one for $30
Even as the rise of free navigation apps gives most paid competitors pause (if not killing them outright), Navigon has managed to stay well ahead of the pack with a robust, oft-updated smartphone solution, despite charging over $80 for the privilege. But now, even that last bit can change. For $30, Navigon's MyRegion gives you its premium MobileNavigator software at around one-third the price, with the simple caveat that you only get maps for one-third of the US (East, West or Central) to go with it. Should you drive out of your designated zone, Navigon will generously allow you to buy another chunk a la carte for $15; and all of Navigon's other add-ons, including the new MyRoutes feature (customized route recommendations and alternate routes) are similarly available. It's not quite as delectable as gratis, but we have to admit a certain admiration for Navigon turning software investment into impulse buy. Oh, and speaking of impulsive: Navigon's offering MyRegion for the low, low price of $25 through April 12th.
Navigon keeps MobileNavigator iPhone app fresh with 3D terrain views, Facebook / Twitter integration
Hey, software engineers of all shapes and sizes -- are you keeping an eye on this? Navigon is releasing yet another significant update for its continually improving MobileNavigator iPhone GPS app, and at this point, we reckon these guys and gals should get some sort of medal for pursuing innovation on an existing product rather than leaping to "the next best thing." The latest refresh adds in three primary features: 3D terrain views, a 3D panorama view ($9.99 extra) and in-app connectivity with Facebook and Twitter. As you'd expect, the latter enables users to broadcast current position, destination and ETA to social media outlets, which should make existing Foursquare addicts overwhelmed with joy. Version 1.5.0 also throws in MyRoutes, which is said to analyze your driving habits, patterns, location and time / day in order to provide "up to three routes clearly displayed in-map with ETA, distance and driving times for each." Best of all? It's just $69.99 ($20 less than normal) until February 15th, while the real-time traffic add-on is reduced $5 to $19.99 for the same duration.
Navigon announces MobileNavigator for Android and Windows Mobile
We'd heard that Navigon would be bringing navigation to Android, and here at CES it's gone one better: MobileNavigator is coming to Android and Windows Mobile. The app will feature Navigon's trademark Reality View Plus view and Lane Assistant Pro features on both platforms, and it'll sell for $89 on WinMo starting now ($69 until Valentines Day), and launch for Android in the spring.
Navigon updates US iPhone navigation app, live traffic updates are a go
A little later than previously alluded to, but Navigon's finally rolling out live traffic update to its MobileNavigator iPhone app. Same prices as mentioned before, it'll regularly be $24.99, but for the next four weeks, it's only gonna ring up at $19.99 for lifetime use, no monthly fees. Not that TomTom needed anything else to think about, of course. Full presser after the break.
Navigon adding live traffic to iPhone navigation app, asks 'TomTom who?'
Practically all summer, the buzz surrounding TomTom's forthcoming iPhone GPS app was near deafening. But said noise apparently didn't penetrate the labs at Navigon, as that very outfit has produced what's easily the most full-featured option on the market today. Just a week after updating the already-great app with text-to-speech, iPod controls and location sharing, the company is now proclaiming that live traffic will splash down in October (at least in North America). The update will enable the software to utilize real-time speed data from drivers currently en route as well as historical information in order to alert you of slow-downs and re-route you when necessary. We've personally seen live traffic functions fail more often than not, but we're giving Navigon the benefit of the doubt here until we can test it ourselves. Best of all, it'll only cost MobileNavigator users (priced at $89.99) a one-time fee of $24.99 for lifetime traffic, and if you snag it within the first four weeks after it goes on sale, that rate drops to $19.99. So, TomTom -- what now?
Navigon sneaks text-to-speech, iPod controls and location sharing into MobileNavigator app
TomTom's much-ballyhooed iPhone GPS app best step its game up, else it'll get left in the dust by none other than Navigon. The lesser-known nav company today introduced the second major update for its MobileNavigator iPhone app (our impressions are here), and the feature additions aren't anything to scoff at. For starters, the program has become the first on-board navigation app for the iPhone to gain text-to-speech functionality, and just in case hearing street names belted out through a robotic voice ain't good enough for your high standards, the inclusion of iPod control should win you over. At long last, drivers can access the full range of iPod functionalities with a single click from map access, and it even recognizes the shuffle feature to keep you guessing. Finally, a location sharing function has been added to make stalking your pals that much easier; to close, Navigon has knocked $10 off the purchase price, bringing it down to a nearly-palatable $89.99 -- and yes, those who already own it can download the update gratis.[Via HotHardware]
Navigon updates iPhone app, adds some desired features
Navigon, as promised, has updated MobileNavigator [iTunes link] for the iPhone. According to the developer: "The free update adds a couple of new features and enhancements to the MobileNavigator. NAVIGON's route planning function known from the companies PND line enables users to plan a route with different destinations ahead of time. Taking advantage of the iPhone's own functionalities, a call POI (point of Interest) function allows to directly call the number of a POI such as a restaurant or hotel by simply clicking on the number. It is also possible to save it to the user's contacts. Furthermore, the update provides an optimized volume control when navigating and using the integrated iPod function of the iPhone at the same time. It also allows to decide which POIs should be displayed in the map view." I have tested the new functions and can verify that they work as advertised, except for the ability to save a POI in my contacts list. I've asked Navigon for the secret. Update: You hold the phone number in the POI list down for a moment, and a menu appears allowing you to save the contact, add to an existing contact, or send a text message to that number. Navigon has also updated the GUI, and while en-route you can get time of arrival and distance to destination without having to click on the screen. The map also displays your current speed, the posted speed limit (if available in the database) and the distance to your next turn. While the points of interest database is not as large as the AT&T Navigator app, which is web connected, it is reasonably up-to-date and complete. A shopping center near me which opened last November was there, along with the new roads that were built around it. The database won't be perfectly up-to-date, but frankly, even Google is behind on POI locations near me. Coming in future updates to MobileNavigator is real-time traffic, and text-to-speech, so street names get announced when approaching a turn. I know those are biggies for many buyers. The Navigon MobileNavigator is $69.99 until the end of this month, when it goes up to $99.99. There is also an update coming soon for the excellent iGO Navigator, so it is interesting to see the competition forcing new features and innovations. I just received a press release from ALK Technologies announcing their CoPilot Live [iTunes link] nav solution for the iPhone. It looks feature complete, and sells for US$34.99. We'll be reviewing it ASAP. If you are looking for nav for your iPhone, it's a good time to start comparing, and there are more apps and the TomTom solution on the way. Here are some screen grabs from the latest version: %Gallery-70067%
Navigon scores with MobileNavigator
While many have been waiting for the TomTom hardware/software combo for the iPhone, Navigon has delivered a very appealing app for the iPhone running version 3.0 of the OS.MobileNavigator [App Store] has a striking on-screen display, with many features lacking in some of the other products that are out there. Unlike the AT&T Navigator and the G-Map apps, MobileNavigator allows you to access your address book for destinations. It works in landscape or portrait mode, and can warn you if you are speeding. It does not have any traffic info, and you can't call any phone numbers that are in the POI (points of interest) data base. A take me home function is done with a single click.All the maps are loaded on your device (1.29 GB) so going out of range of an AT&T cell site is not a worry. If you get a call, the guidance stops, but resumes automatically when you conclude the call. Maps can be 3D or 2D, and the 3D maps look great and closely mimic what is on the road in front of you. The voice directions are quite clear, in contrast with the AT&T app, which is garbled and pretty much a waste.So how is it on the road? Pretty nice. I got a quick GPS lock. If for any reason you lose GPS, in a tunnel for example, you get a red bar across the top of the screen. You can display POIs along your route, and many of the icons have company logos like Best Buy, most of the gas station logos, even Quiznos.If you are navigating the next street to turn on is at the bottom of the screen. If you are not navigating, you see the street you are on. At the top of the screen you get the arrival time if you are navigating. Touching that part of the display will give you your speed, and another touch gives you the distance. Many streets alert you to the speed limit, and if you go go over, you can set a warning.Intersections on highways are handled very well, with nice big road signs and clear directions of where to go. The voice directions come at the opportune times, and do not nag, the way the AT&T app does.At my location, southern Arizona, the maps were complete and there were far more POIs than provided on the G-Map application.
Navigon brings MobileNavigator to iPhone's App Store, we go hands-on
While the world waits with bated breath for TomTom to make good on its promise of providing a bona fide GPS application for iPhone OS 3.0, Navigon is stepping in with every intention of stealing the aforementioned firm's thunder. Sure, AT&T has issued its own subscription app that dings you $9.95 per month, and we've also seen a few dedicated GPS apps surface from both Sygic and XRoad, but this is definitely the first on-board iPhone nav solution from what we'd call a "major" GPS company. Available starting today in the App Store, the 1.29GB MobileNavigator program contains comprehensive NAVTEQ maps of North America, and if you're interested in Europe, Navigon's app for that side of the pond was released around a month ago. Click on for a few of our thoughts.
European nav app first out of the gate for iPhone
It looks like our European friends will get first crack at an advanced turn-by-turn navigation app for the iPhone/iPod touch. MobileNavigator Europe [App Store] requires the 3.0 software, and looks to be fully featured: 2D and 3D map displays Can be used in portrait and landscape format Branded UI features such as Reality View Pro, Lane Assistant Pro & "real signpost display" Speed Assistant with adjustable audio-visual warning Direct access and navigation to contacts saved in the iPhone's address book The latest NAVTEQ maps, 2M+ European POIs (points of interest) Navigation is automatically resumed after an incoming phone call Quick access to user-defined POIs in the area and along the route Take Me Home function with a single click This software is the first of several apps coming for the iPhone. The TomTom app that will work in the U.S. has been demoed and coming soon. Garmin, one of the premier GPS manufacturers is going the other way, and will release their own phone with navigation built in, but the project has been troubled and much delayed. Telenav has pre-announced its iPhone offering and suggested that customers keep an eye on the company's Twitter feed.The Navigon app is US $94.99 (!) this month only, then the price goes up (!!!). The Navigon website doesn't yet show a list of the supported countries, but it's displayed in iTunes and is quite extensive (Albania to Vatican City with Estonia, Macedonia, San Marino & Slovenia + more in between). The app supports ten different languages and will automatically switch based on the selected language for the iPhone itself. The download weighs in at 1.65 GB.This quick release of high quality navigation software should set mouths watering for a release over here, but I'm a bit troubled by the pricing, as you can buy a pretty fully featured low-end navigator for only a few more dollars.Update: Our readers have also mentioned Gokivo, with a continuing US$9.95 a month subscription, and Sygic, which provides turn by turn navigation in Austrailia and New Zealand.Thanks to Gaspare for the original tip and our alert readers for more suggestions!
Navigon TS 7000T Europe guides to you stay within the law
If having a DMB tuner on your GPS device doesn't get you excited, perhaps some more practical info will. Navigon has just released its latest nav device, the TS 7000T Europe with MobileNavigator 6 -- yeah, yeah, it's got all the stuff you'd expect, like a 4.3-inch screen, 16:9 aspect ratio, and loads of maps of 37 European countries pre-installed on a memory card (we're guessing SD, although we're not totally sure). But the best part of the 7000T is that each time you cross one of those European countries, be they in the European Union (France), or not (Switzerland), you'll get a popup that will not only tell you points of interest, but things that may help you stay out of trouble, like the traffic rules of the country, speed limit, or the maximum blood alcohol rate (really!). In any case, €500 is a small price to pay to have the peace of mind to know that you're still within the law.[Via Navigadget]
