Route 66 GPS arrives at last on Android Market

Route 66 hoped to apply a creative take to GPS with the launch of its self-titled GPS app for every Android user (free, Market). The navigation app breaks rank through an augmented reality mode known as Follow Me. If the phone is facing the road, it can show a virtual car that takes the route the driver should go, giving a clearer sense of what to do than an abstract lane assist feature might.

Outside of this, the map system also promises a blend of both online and offline maps, with the option of caching map data for a foreign trip or in areas where data might be spotty. Map packs include 3D data as well as links to weather and Wikipedia when relevant. Industry standards like real-time traffic, speed camera warnings, and an on-foot mode come with the app.

The Route 66 app itself is free, although map access normally costs money. Everyone gets a 30-day trial if they start up before end of the year, and users can buy a blanket 80-country, lifetime license to updated maps for $65. Devices need at least Android 2.0, although tablets get the benefit of a split view with Follow Me and traditional mapping side-by-side.

By Electronista Staff