TomTom confirms deal to supply mapping data

Two Maps-related features in iOS 6 will require at least an iPhone 4S or an iPad 2 to function, despite requirements for the rest of the OS, Apple has quietly revealed. A check of the official Maps page shows the fact mentioned only in a footnote. "Flyover and turn-by-turn navigation will be available only on iPhone 4S and iPad 2 or later," the page reads, adding that "some features may not be available in all countries or all areas."

iOS 6 itself requires only an iPhone 3GS, although the first-generation iPad is being rendered obsolete. Both Flyover and turn-by-turn navigation can require a lot of intense 3D processing, however, which may put too much strain on the 3GS or even devices using Apple's A4 processor, including the first-gen iPad and the iPhone 4. The iPad 2 and the iPhone 4S use A5 processors; the best-equipped device may be the third-gen iPad, which has an A5X processor and 1GB of RAM.

TomTom has meanwhile confirmed that the new Maps app uses its data. "TomTom has signed a global agreement with Apple for maps and related information. No further details of the agreement will be provided," it says in a press release. TomTom currently sells a number of navigation apps in the App Store, and it's unclear what their fate will be after iOS 6 launches. Built-in turn-by-turn may seriously impact the sales of other iOS navigation apps by firms like Garmin and NAVIGON, at least in regions where Apple/TomTom provides support.

By Electronista Staff

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iPhone, industry, TomTom, Apple, iPad, iOS, iOS 6