Autoblog

Apple gives Google Maps the boot, adds free turn-by-turn navigation to iPhone

Noah Joseph — Tue, 12 Jun 2012 10:44:00 EST

The big news in the tech world right now is the World Wide Developer's Conference which Apple just concluded. That's where the House that Jobs Built unveiled its latest operating systems for both computers and mobile devices, its latest laptop computer design and more. But what does this all have to do with cars, you ask? Plenty.

First off, Apple used the high-profile press conference extravaganza to announce the integration of its Siri voice service into cars, starting with nine automakers (among them the massive General Motors group) that will be putting a dedicated button on their steering wheels to allow drivers to activate the service on their iPhones and iPads without taking their hands off the wheel or their eyes off the road. But that's not all that's of relevance to motorists from WWDC 2012.

Apple has also announced the launch of its own Maps application, replacing the Google Maps utility it had begrudgingly integrated into its devices until now. Resulting from Apple's acquisition of several erstwhile independent digital cartography operations, Maps aims to improve on the popular Google service with such features as spoken turn-by-turn directions with real-time ETA, smooth-scrolling 3D imaging, aerial flyover views of city centers and important landmarks, Siri integration and real-time traffic information.

The latter is reportedly crowdsourced anonymously from other users, leaving us with some questions regarding privacy issues. But we'll leave that to the guys with the tin-foil hats while we blissfully revel in Big Brother's latest offering to the masses. Follow the links below to see what Apple has in store in greater detail.

Apple gives Google Maps the boot, adds free turn-by-turn navigation to iPhone originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 12 Jun 2012 10:44:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Surprise! J.D. Power reports consumers frustrated with navigation systems

Damon Lavrinc — Tue, 22 Nov 2011 17:30:00 EST

Filed under: Technology, Infotainment

For those of us testing dozens of in-car navigation and infotainment systems each year, J.D. Power's 2011 U.S. Navigation Usage and Satisfaction Study comes as no surprise.

According to owners surveyed in the study, simplicity and ease-of-use are lacking in the majority of systems on the market, with "Address/street/city not found" topping the list, followed by difficulty inputting a destination, poor routing, ineffectual voice controls, a lack of street names and missing points of interest. Not to mention the most obvious issue: the inability to find the proper function in the menu system.

Additionally, with a growing number of automakers combining climate controls into the touchscreen, these systems are adding another layer of complexity with few tangible benefits.

Interestingly though, the Garmin-supplied system fitted to the Dodge Charger and Chrysler 300 - placing first and third, respectively, in consumer satisfaction - do combine many of the vehicle's climate control functions in a separate menu on the screen. So the issue isn't about incorporation, it's about execution.

Lining the bottom of the pack were a few Mercedes-Benz models (no surprise considering how long in the tooth COMAND is), the Jaguar XJ, Volvo XC90, Lincoln MKX and Toyota RAV4. And while the Clarion-equipped system (in the process of being phased out) in the Ford Flex, Fusion and Lincoln MKS all made it into the top 10, the TeleNav versions of the Ford Explorer and Edge - yes, the MyFord Touch equipped models - landed near the bottom. However, many of those issues should be rectified with the 2013 update, which includes faster response, better voice recognition and a mild UI overhaul. Hit the jump for the details and the complete rankings list.

Continue reading Surprise! J.D. Power reports consumers frustrated with navigation systems

Surprise! J.D. Power reports consumers frustrated with navigation systems originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 22 Nov 2011 17:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Jeremy Clarkson voicepack coming to TomTom navigation

Jonathon Ramsey — Tue, 06 Sep 2011 09:01:00 EST

Filed under: Etc., Technology, Celebrities

Way back when, animated characters were voiced by anonymous folks with great pipes. These days, you need A-list celebs to sell pixelated fish and other playthings. The disembodied and slightly stilted voices of navigation systems appear to be going the same way, and Top Gear host Jeremy Clarkson is the latest talent to contribute his voice to giving directions - ironic, considering he's made his disdain for GPS clear in the past.

According to the UK's Daily Mail, TomTom will unveil a device next month in which the famously ornery BBC star will advise you to execute handbrake turn - going all, well, Clarkson, when you miss your offramp. If he ever gets to be too much, apparently the unit will allow you to get directions from The Stig, which we expect will sound like not getting any voice directions at all.

Jeremy Clarkson voicepack coming to TomTom navigation originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 06 Sep 2011 09:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Emotionally sensitive satellite navigation systems in development?

Zach Bowman — Mon, 03 Jan 2011 17:36:00 EST

Filed under: Etc., Technology

It's one of the great ironies of our age that many of the devices that were crafted to make our lives easier are more prone to catapulting us into fits of blinding rage. Anyone who's been led astray by satellite navigation knows exactly what we're talking about. But what if your devices knew that you were upset with them and could alter their behavior accordingly? Researchers at Cambridge University are working on new technology that could create emotionally-sensitive robotics to reduce driver distraction and curb road rage.

The tech uses a range of sensors to detect everything from facial expressions to hand gestures and even the user's tone of voice. Researchers are hoping that in the future, vehicles will be able to uses similar data to decrease the volume of the radio or mute cell phone calls if they sense that the driver is upset or agitated. Still, don't expect your next new car to be able to sense your emotional state. According to The Daily Telegraph, mainstream application of the tech is still long way off.

[Source: The Telegraph]

Emotionally sensitive satellite navigation systems in development? originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 03 Jan 2011 17:36:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Garmin Nuvi GPS recalled over fire risk - Suzuki threatened?

Zach Bowman — Thu, 26 Aug 2010 14:31:00 EST

Filed under: Aftermarket, Technology, Suzuki

Garmin has recalled a total of 1.25 million portable GPS units for a possible fire risk, with 796,000 of those sold here in the United States. According to Consumer Reports, the problem stems from a faulty battery that may cause the device to overheat while in use. So far, there have been no injuries or property damage due to the defect, and fewer than 10 units have been reported with the problem.

The recall covers Nuvi 200W, 250W, 260W and a few models in the 700 series that land in a certain date-code range and that use a specific type of printed circuit board design. The easiest way to tell if your unit falls under the recall is to head over to Garmin's site and enter in your model's serial number. If yours comes up as one of the unlucky few that has to be returned, Garmin will provide you with all of the necessary mailing instructions.

Interestingly, several automakers have offered cradled Garmin products in place of costlier in-dash navigation systems, some of which will be covered under the recall. Among those manufacturers, Suzuki has been the first to confirm to Autoblog that some of its models will be impacted. The company said that it is currently working with regulators to deduce which vehicles shipped with the faulty Nuvi systems and how to proceed with getting the units fixed. Stay tuned for more information.

[Source: Consumer Reports]

Garmin Nuvi GPS recalled over fire risk - Suzuki threatened? originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 26 Aug 2010 14:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Video: TomTom comes to the Dark Side with Darth Vader voice pack

Noah Joseph — Fri, 07 May 2010 16:58:00 EST

Filed under: Technology, Videos, Humor

Darth Vader TomTom voice recording session - Click above to view the video after the jump

We know what you were thinking: If only my sat-nav could play Jedi mind tricks on me while I'm driving. Sounds like a good idea, no? TomTom evidently thinks so, and has worked their latest voice pack around it.

In the video after the jump, you can get a humorous inside look at the voice recording session with none other than Darth Vader, whose bellowing, heavy-breathing sound can now be added to your TomTom for the low, low price of $13. Yoda, C3PO and Han Solo (what, no Jaba?) are also available. But the next time we spin out on a patch on black ice, we'll be thinking of Vader losing it in his TIE Fighter while losing it ourselves.

[Source: TomTom via Engadget]

Continue reading Video: TomTom comes to the Dark Side with Darth Vader voice pack

Video: TomTom comes to the Dark Side with Darth Vader voice pack originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 07 May 2010 16:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Like a Rolling Stone: Bob Dylan to voice sat-nav systems?

Jeremy Korzeniewski — Tue, 25 Aug 2009 18:58:00 EST

Filed under: Technology, Celebrities

Want an interesting voice on your satellite navigation system but tired of the Yoda, Stewie, Arnold and Homer themes you've already downloaded? Good news, then. Bob Dylan has just announced on his "Theme Time Radio Hour" show in the U.K. that he may be providing his distinctive vocals to a GPS unit near you soon. Says Dylan:

I am talking to a couple of car companies about being the voice of their GPS system. I think it would be good if you are looking for directions and hear my voice saying something like: left at the next street, no a right - you know what? Just go straight... I probably shouldn't do it because which ever way I go I always end up at one place: Lonely Avenue.

We can picture it now... the first time you're lost, Bob Dylan's elastic voice comes on loud through the speakers, "How does it feel? To be on your own... with no direction home. Like a complete unknown." Comforting, no?

[Source: Telegraph]

Like a Rolling Stone: Bob Dylan to voice sat-nav systems? originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 25 Aug 2009 18:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Europe gets Toyota Yaris SR with dockable TomTom nav unit

Jonathon Ramsey — Thu, 21 Feb 2008 15:02:00 EST

Filed under: Gadgets, Budget, Technology, Hatchback, Toyota, Lifestyle, UK

Click above to view high-res gallery of the Toyota Yaris SR

The Euro-spec Toyota Yaris is a well-equipped little car. But things like the nine airbags, chrome exhaust finisher, and remote central double locking are merely gravy for the real show on this new SR model: a fully-integrated portable TomTom navigation system that doubles as a touchscreen interface for the car stereo.

It's a neat little trick, and the unit also offers Bluetooth connectivity and a USB connection for MP3 players. We wonder, though, if this is about simply making life easier and aesthetically cleaner for GPS users, or if people are really clamoring for a portable GPS. This blogger has never seen anyone walking down the street taking direction from a TomTom -- but this blogger also lives in LA where nobody walks anywhere, so maybe I'm not the best judge. If nothing else, certain Euro Yaris takers can finally kiss the suction cups goodbye. Uh, Toyota, how 'bout some of that love over this way, please?

Gallery: Toyota Yaris SR

[Source: Toyota]

Continue reading Europe gets Toyota Yaris SR with dockable TomTom nav unit

Europe gets Toyota Yaris SR with dockable TomTom nav unit originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 21 Feb 2008 15:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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BMW and Google help European drivers navigate better, read Autoblog

Damon Lavrinc — Fri, 14 Dec 2007 14:57:00 EST

Filed under: Gadgets, BMW

Those of you rolling in any new BMW model equipped with sat nav and Bluetooth connectability, save the Z4 and X3, can now integrate Google's useful, albeit sometimes erroneous, route plotting into your Bimmer. The joint effort between ze Germans and the search overlords allow users to log onto Google Maps UK, plan their route and then send the information to the vehicle's sat nav.

While that might seem like a redundancy, the truly sweet feature of the system is the ability to import ten RSS feeds into the BMW's computer, allowing you to check up on the happenings of the automotive world from your go-to obessives at Autoblog. Just try to avoid gawking at galleries while in route to pick up the kiddies.

BMW's full press release is posted post jump.

Continue reading BMW and Google help European drivers navigate better, read Autoblog

BMW and Google help European drivers navigate better, read Autoblog originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 14 Dec 2007 14:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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TomTom asks users for a helping hand

Siddharth Raja — Tue, 31 Jul 2007 18:04:00 EST

Filed under: Technology

Satnav manufacturer TomTom will be emulating a practice that's been going on for years on the internet where data resources are kept up-to-date by information submitted by a user community. Probably the best example of this is Wikipedia, a free online-based encyclopedia filled with information submitted and edited by users like you and I.

In the case of TomTom's GPS devices, users would be able to submit information about traffic flows and highlight any errors in the maps. You may recall stories of several motorists in Europe being directed to drive onto railway tracks and some being instructed to cross a river via a bridge that never existed. The new system is likely to prevent that from happening in the future.

TomTom's new set-up will be called 'Navigation 2.0' and is designed to work with digital maps from another company, Tele Atlas, which TomTom is currently in the process of acquiring. Users from around the world are already sending up to 16,000 tips per month, but, since TomTom doesn't make the maps, the feedback is falling on deaf for now

[Source: Reuters]

TomTom asks users for a helping hand originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 31 Jul 2007 18:04:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Nav system in Zephyr rated best in the biz

John Neff — Tue, 14 Nov 2006 14:32:00 EST

Filed under: Gadgets, Lincoln

Having reviewed many vehicles in my day, I can tell you unequivocally that not all satellite navigation systems are created equal. Just checking the sat nav box on the options sheet doesn't guarantee you'll be getting a system that's easy to use and will get you where you want to go. Those who know me will tell you that I've often sung the praises of Ford's sat nav systems, specifically the ones found in Lincoln models. My first experience with these factory-installed Pioneer units came from a review of the Lincoln LS I did back in the day, and I was happy to find an equally agreeable sat nav in the Lincoln Zephyr we tested back in March. So permit me to feel vindicated when I inform you that J.D. Power and Associates has just released its 2006 Navigation Usage and Satisfaction Study in which the Lincoln Zephyr's navigation system received the highest rankign. J.D. rates these factory installed nav systems in six areas that include (in order of importance) ease of use, routing, system appearance, speed of system, voice directions and navigation display screen. The Zephyr's Pioneer unit did particularly well in the those first three areas that are weighted the most. One feature of the system with which I became particularly infatuated was its ability to leave a trail of electronic breadcrumbs on the screen's map showing you where you've driven. And in case you're wondering, the same unit is also available in the 2007 MKZ.

[Source: J.D. Power and Associates]

Nav system in Zephyr rated best in the biz originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 14 Nov 2006 14:32:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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DashDaq throws open source in face of high-end sat navs

John Neff — Mon, 06 Nov 2006 20:03:00 EST

Filed under: Gadgets, SEMA Show, Technology

We're kicking ourselves because we didn't get a chance to play with the DashDaq onboard computer at SEMA last week where it won a Best New International Product Award. Actually, to call it an onboard computer is generalizing its capabilities a bit too much. The small handhelt unit plugs into your vehicle's OBD-II port and can be used for data acquisition, diagnostics, as an extra set of gauges and as a good old fashioned handheld computer. The secret to this little guy's high must-have quotient is the fact it runs on Linux and comes with tools to help you write custom software for it. So besides what it can do out of the box, a clever programmer can have it be a GPS sat nav unit, multimedia player, or even an actual onboard computer. The fact that its maker, Drew Technologies, is keeping the DashDaq open source gives it a huge advantage over other devices, most notably high-end sat nav systems, that come with similar features but can never be modified to do more.

Aside from the flexible software, the actual hardware is impressive too, particularly the 4-inch TFT LCD screen that displays 16.7 million colors (that's all of 'em) and features 480 x 272 resolution. Follow the jump for shots of how good the screen images look, as they are completely unaltered from what you would see on the actual unit. You can also check out this movie of the unit in action and DT's webpage where computer nerds who are smarter than us will appreciate all the things this little grey box can do. Drew Technologies is hoping to have the DashDaq on the market by early 2007 at an MSRP of $595, which, with a little help from a thriving open source programming community creating killer applications, could have the big boys in the satellite navigation and data acquisition markets asking for directions.

[Source: Drew Technologies]

Continue reading DashDaq throws open source in face of high-end sat navs

DashDaq throws open source in face of high-end sat navs originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 06 Nov 2006 20:03:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Hyundai offers Garmin sat navs through dealers

Damon Lavrinc — Wed, 18 Oct 2006 18:05:00 EST

Filed under: Gadgets, Technology, Hyundai

Garmin has scored a major coup by buddying up with Hyundai to sell its nüvi 360 personal navigation device at all of the automaker's 725 dealerships across the U.S. The nüvi 360 not only navigates, but also features hands-free Bluetooth calling and other travel specific features like a database of over 6 million points of interest, a currency converter and an MP3 player with picture viewer. The small pocket-sized device mounts on your vehicle's windshield, though it can be detached and used while traveling on foot, as well. At $857.00, however, the cost of the device is anything but diminutive.

This could be a very smart move by Hyundai as well, which knows that redesigning and engineering a dash to accept a nav system and Bluetooth compatibility wouldn't be cost effective for many of its models like the lower priced Accent and Elantra. The South Korean automaker doesn't actually offer a satellite navigation system on any of its vehicles, so this could also be a stopgap measure to satisfy customers interested in such technology while Hyundai works on rolling out a factory version for its vehicles in the North American market.

[Source: Garmin]

Hyundai offers Garmin sat navs through dealers originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 18 Oct 2006 18:05:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Directions no charge: Cadillac offering nav systems for free

Damon Lavrinc — Sun, 08 Oct 2006 08:03:00 EST

Filed under: Gadgets, Cadillac

In a gesture of unwavering generosity, Cadillac announced yesterday that select 2007 models would come equipped with free satellite navigation. The offer will end on January 2nd 2007 and is only available on "specially-equipped" models.

What directional joys await those of you willing to drop the coin on a new Caddy? It's pretty much the standard navigation fare, with a dash-mounted LCD displaying turn-by-turn directions, with the option of a sultry vixen barking orders at you if you make a wrong move (some don't need a sat-nav for that). Other standard features include an address finder, a business search and, for those of you willing to upgrade to XM, NavTraffic, that provides real-time traffic reporting.

The free navi will be only available on 2007 models and we haven't found out the meaning of "specially-equipped" yet, but we'll call our local dealer today.

[Source: Cadillac via GM Inside News]

Directions no charge: Cadillac offering nav systems for free originally appeared on Autoblog on Sun, 08 Oct 2006 08:03:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Delphi NAV200 comes in at $349

John Neff — Thu, 21 Sep 2006 19:13:00 EST

Filed under: Gadgets, Technology

Aftermarket navigation systems are not cheap, though neither are the nav units that come bundled in your car. Aftermarket units can start in the $500 range but easily skyrocket up to $2,000 depending on how many features you demand. Delphi's consumer electronics division has just announced a new hand held nav system called the NAV200 that packs most of those popular features in a small form factor at an easily digestible price of $349.

The NAV200 is about the size of a PDA (who uses those anymore?) and can be controlled via a stylus or your own grubby fingers via a 3.5" touchscreen. Unlike many aftermarket nav systems, you aren't forced to load maps into it via a CD through your computer. Rather, Delphi includes complete maps of the US and Canada from NAVTEQ on a 1.5gb SD card that slots right in. You can also insert an SD card with MP3 files, photos and videos and use the NAV200 as a portable media player, however the battery only lasts 3 hours when not plugged into the cigarette lighter. Still, it could replace an iPod for some.

Other features that the modern nav user demands are also present, like the option for real-time traffic info that the unit can use to reroute your path (available with an adapter antenna and subscription fee). Bluetooth, however, is one missing feature we feel the NAV200 is missing, as pumping cell phone calls through such devices is becoming quite popular, especially in states where you're not allowed to hold a cell phone while driving anymore. But the NAV200 makes a compelling case for itself at $349.

[Source: Delphi]

Delphi NAV200 comes in at $349 originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 21 Sep 2006 19:13:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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VZ Navigator: Do not pass Go, do pass destination, go directly to jail

Joel Arellano — Mon, 17 Apr 2006 16:01:00 EST

Filed under: Aftermarket, Gadgets, Etc., I.C.E., Technology

Martha McKay of the Wichita Eagle recently tested the VZ Navigator, a GPS navigation system offered by Verizon for its Motorola V325 cell phone. The service became available in January.

In a similar manner to TechnoRide's testing of OnStar's Turn-By-Turn service, McKay entered her destination address into the cellphone, which downloaded directions to the unit. McKay then followed "Michelle's" voice prompts and found herself driving a half-mile past her destination to the Bergen County Jail. A Verizon representative later explained that the VZ Navigator's mapping directions are provided by Navteq Corp., and such inaccurate information was probably an aberration.

Uh-huh. McKay at least can take some comfort that VZ Navigator didn't guide her over a cliff. Share your sat-nav experiences (good and bad) with your fellow reader in 'comments.'

[Source: The Record via The Wichita Eagle]

VZ Navigator: Do not pass Go, *do* pass destination, go directly to jail originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 17 Apr 2006 16:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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New Garmin StreetPilot geared toward North American Asians

Joel Arellano — Fri, 14 Apr 2006 16:05:00 EST

Filed under: Aftermarket, Gadgets, Trends, Technology

Garmin, the well-known maker of portable GPS systems and other devices, has announced it will start offering a version of its popular StreetPilot c330 (pictured) that will provide directions in five different Asian languages. The 'StreetPilot c330 Asian Americas', which goes on sale in May, is the first in the North American market to offer such capability. Garmin had developed it in response to census data showing that over six million Asians live in Canada and the U.S.

Languages offered include Japanese, Korean, Mandarin Chinese, Taiwanese and Thai. Garmin will use NBA star Yao Ming of the Houston Rockets as the c330's spokesperson.

[Source: Kansas City Star]

New Garmin StreetPilot geared toward North American Asians originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 14 Apr 2006 16:05:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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TomTom brings instant messaging to sat-nav

Joel Arellano — Mon, 10 Apr 2006 08:56:00 EST

Filed under: Aftermarket, Gadgets, I.C.E., Technology

"Where did they find those wonderful toys?"

That's what we at Autoblog occasionally find ourselves asking when checking out sister-blog Engadget. And what toys!

Sat-Sat Nav-Nav Makers-Maker TomTom has released a new product called TomTom Buddies. It's a standard GPS navigation system with a nice twist: you can keep watch where your friends and family are traveling and they can track you, too. Great for those family gatherings (though terrible if you oversleep and blame your tardiness on traffic!).

The system works in a manner not unlike most Instant Message clients. Users invite other TomTom-ophiles into the system and can even sent text messages and interesting sites to each other. Also like IM, when drivers want a bit of solitude, a privacy option permits 'hiding.'

[Source: Engadget]

TomTom brings instant messaging to sat-nav originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 10 Apr 2006 08:56:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Ford to offer Fiesta Freedom for technology buffs

Chris Paukert — Fri, 31 Mar 2006 15:01:00 EST

Filed under: Aftermarket, Audio, Gadgets, Trends, Europe, I.C.E., Technology, Hatchback, Ford

Ford's UK subsidiary has unveiled their newest special edition, dubbed the Fiesta Freedom. Geared towards technophiles, the model includes £800 ($1,400 USD) of packaged extras, including Bluetooth connectivity and voice-control stereo. Available in a variety of bodystyles and specifications, the Freedom also includes bespoke 15" alloys, body colored trim, fog lamps, and special badging.

Buyers will be entitled to a special deal with mobile provider Vodaphone, giving them a deal on a G3 Nokia N70 handheld, along with a Tom Tom Mobile 5 sat-nav unit that works with the phone whether in the car or not.

Priced from £8,845 ($15.4k USD), just 2,500 examples will be on offer in Britain beginning next month.

[Source: MotorTorque at AskaPrice.com]

Ford to offer Fiesta Freedom for technology buffs originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 31 Mar 2006 15:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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