This is Navigon's Official press release:

NAVIGON brings Android users independent orientation

Barcelona, 15th February 2010 – To continue its strategy of enabling mobile phone users the use of navigation systems independent of mobile networks, NAVIGON is expanding its onboard range for smartphones and will be offering the MobileNavigator for Android operating systems from Spring 2010. The Android smartphone operating system has been on the market since 2008 and further devices are expected for 2010. US market research organisation Gartner predicts that this open source system will see 7-fold growth by 2012.[1] “Today, our award-winning software, MobileNavigator, already offers tomorrow’s technologies for a wide range of mobile phone operating systems. For example, we recently integrated a connection to social media platforms like Facebook and twitter for the iPhone“, says Gerhard Mayr, Vice President World-Wide Mobile Phone Business at NAVIGON. “And now, Android users too are reaping the long-term benefits of our know-how. In this way, we are making premium level navigation available to an increasing number of users.”

As reliable as a PNA – and always ready to go
MobileNavigator for Android (versions 1.5 to 2.1) equips numerous smartphones like the T-Mobile Pulse, the Nexus One or the HTC Magic with onboard navigation. The map data is stored on the smartphone, therefore the navigation system has no need to connect to any mobile network, meaning there is no long loading time or any additional roaming costs. As always, established NAVIGON features transform mobile phones into reliable devices:

· The map view function Reality View ProTM shows users motorway exits and signs in schematic, realistic 3-D quality
· The display switches automatically from day to night mode and also offers an option for showing the map display in portrait or landscape format when required. At the same time, the software achieves a frame rate of up to 8 fps (frames per second) in map mode to ensure a clear and jitter-free display[2]
· Alongside the visual features, smart aids such as Lane Assistant and Speed Assistant provide additional support to ensure a safe driving style. Precise spoken announcements explain the next scheduled navigation procedure[3]

Simple operation
The MobileNavigator will integrate seamlessly into the Android operating system, making the most of the characteristics of the platform for intuitive user guidance. Smart address input makes using the device quick and easy, speeding up the route planning process. In addition, the programme enables direct access to phone book contacts. “Driving in traffic is becoming increasingly complex while, at the same time, people have less and less time to spare,” says Gerhard Mayr. “Our MobileNavigator provides our customers with greater flexibility to safely master the challenges of day-to-day mobility.”

MobileNavigator for smartphones with Android operating systems will be available as a download at the Android Marketplace within the next few weeks. The software will be available with an attractive discount to celebrate its market launch. The introductory price will be only €49.95 for the regional version for Germany, Austria and Switzerland and €74.95 for the European version. NAVIGON also offers a 30 day, full software ‘Try & Buy’ option without any obligation to buy.[4]

Compatible devices

HTC Hero
HTC Magic
Google Nexus One
Huawei U8220
Motorola Droid
Motorola Milestone
Samsung GT-i5700 Galaxy Spica
Samsung GT-i7500 Galaxy
Sony Ericsson Xperia X10
T-Mobile G2 Touch
T-Mobile G1
T-Mobile Pulse

Notes to editors
[1] Source www.chip.de 7 October 2009, amongst others
2 Average fps values vary according to the respective hardware, the mean value of 8 fps applies to high-performance smartphones like the Nexus One.
3 Available in German, English, French, Italian, Swedish, Spanish, Danish and Dutch
4 The ‘Try & Buy’ option applies to both the regional and the European versions. Potential buyers can search all addresses and view all maps during the trial period. Navigation is limited to only one country until the software is purchased.

Mike Barrett