Garmin, the global leader in satellite navigation, is bringing its first turn-by-turn navigation app to the iPhone. Dubbed StreetPilot, the new navigation app is just the beginning for the navigation giant as the company plans to release a slue of new smartphone applications for both iPhone and Android.
Here’s a breakdown of the applications Garmin plans to release in 2011 — StreetPilot for iPhone, Garmin Tracker, myMechanic, and My-Cast Lite. Let’s breakdown these applications one-by-one and review the features and compatibility.
Garmin StreetPilot for iPhone, as the title suggests, was designed solely for the iPhone. iPhone users will receive unlimited use of Garmin’s navigation with traffic alerts. On the main screen there’s only two options ‘Where to?’ and ‘View Map’. Looking up an address will offer voice-prompted, turn-by turn directions that speak street names.
Garmin StreetPilot for iPhone also includes many of the high-end features seen on Garmin’s standalone units such as traffic alerts, road closures and land assist with junction view. There’s also speed limit indicators for most major roads. Since the system is an “off-board navigation system” you’ll always have the latest up-to-date mapping information. The app is currently available for $39.99 in the App Store.
The next application, Garmin Tracker, is coming to both iPhone and Android. This free app works in conjunction with the Garmin GTU 10 tracking devices (set to be announced this week at CES 2011). Garmin Tracker combined with GTU 10 will allow you to track vehicles, your pet or even your children with quick access to their location on your smartphone.
Garmin’s myMechanic is an Android-only application for the car enthusiast. Delivering you car’s real-time horsepower, torque, G-force and more, myMechanic works when paired via Bluetooth to Garmin’s ecoRoute HD module. The app will be available in February 2011.
Last up is Garmin’s My-Cast Lite, which joins the current lineup of My-Cast apps available on the iPhone. The new free lite version is available now for Android users and provides radar, current conditions, hourly and extended forecasts.
Overall it looks like Garmin is making a serious push in 2011 for Android and iPhone. We can’t wait to get our hands on StreetPilot for iPhone, but we will have a chance to try out all of the apps this week at Garmin’s CES booth. If you have any questions you’d like us to ask Garmin while we’re at CES, fire away.
Garmin | App Store | Out Now
