TomTom to make iOS app social, reorganize GPS lineup
updated 01:00 pm EST, Wed January 11, 2012
Future iOS app will guide to network contacts
TomTom has announced a series of upcoming product changes at CES. Of special note is the company's iOS app, which will see a v1.10 update later this quarter. The new app will sport an unusually high level of social network integration, allowing people to pull information from Facebook and Twitter to navigate to friends, places, and events. Working in the other direction, people will also be able to share destinations and arrival times, whether via Facebook, Twiiter, email, or SMS.
In terms of dedicated GPS units, the company is planning to release an updated collection in the spring, simplified into three tiers. The Start series will focus mostly on basic features, such as lane guidance and spoken street names. Buyers will, however, have access to gas prices, as well as lifetime map and/or traffic updates.
The VIA line will upgrade to instant routing and Bluetooth, as well as voice recognition, better lane guidance, enhanced graphics, and slimmer designs with integrated mounts. The most expensive options will be in the GO LIVE line, among them capacitive touch, TomTom HD Traffic, a "click-and-go" mount, dynamic instant routing, and special apps and services.
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