B l u e t o o t h N e w s . c o m   

When we first tested TomTom Navigator and their Bluetooth GPS Receiver, I really liked the looks of the software and their 3-D view. I also liked all the great hardware that is included with the receiver. However, one negative was what I felt were inferior routing directions compared to other Pocket PC-based GPS programs I tested.

Well TomTom has addressed this issue, and is offering a free update just in time for Christmas!

Today, TomTom announced enhanced maps with improved turn-by-turn coverage for the USA based on data from Tele Atlas.

For those of you not familiar with Tele Atlas, they are one of the two leading providers of digital map data (the other being Navigation Technologies.) Since creating and maintaining accurate map data requires a huge investment, most GPS software companies rely on either Tele Atlas or NavTech to provide the raw data, and possibly the routing algorithms. The map data can be extremely comprehensive, and most GPS vendors only select a subset of the total data available.

For handheld computers, storage space is greatly limited, so limiting the dataset is an absolute requirement. For example, the map data provider may record specific speed limits for each section of road. However, since this information takes up considerable storage space, handheld GPS systems choose instead to depend on the “typical” speed limits based on road type. For example, all freeways might be set to 65mph regardless of the fact that actual speed limits can vary between 55mph and 70mph. This can lead to routings that are not always optimal. Of course, traffic conditions can also play a major role. 

Obviously, routing is a difficult challenge for handhelds, so the improved turn-by-turn coverage is quite welcome.

Pricing and Availability

TomTom Navigator will issue maps free-of-charge to all existing TomTom USA users. If you are a TomTom USA user, go to http://www.tomtom.com/products/usaupgrade/ to register online and take advantage of this offer. If you are not a TomTom user, visit: TomTom's Web site for product information.