Telenav is giving website developers a new option to quickly navigate to places such as businesses and restaurants. It is providing a way to link from a site to its free HTML5-based navigation service through a dedicated button. This is called the Scout Drive Button and was already available for iOS devices.
Telenav's Scout navigation app we had a chance to check out at CES has just received an update for its iOS version that will work offline. Users will get the option of downloading regions separated into Western, Central or Eastern and use their device's GPS sensor to get spoken, turn-by-turn directions. Also new is voice control, with users able to say things like "Drive home" or "Find gas station" and have their phones guide them there.
Ford at MWC revealed it will debut its Sync in-car infotainment system in Europe on the upcoming B-Max minivan. The service will be available in nine languages, including UK English, EU French, EU Spanish, EU Portuguese, German, Italian, Turkish, Dutch, and Russian. At the same time, the carmaker introduced Sync AppLink globally, the system meant to allow drivers to operate their handsets using their voice.
We were given the chance to check out the product of the recently-inked Telenav and Ford deal at an event at the CES show. The smartphone Scout app will allow users to take their personal trips on the road with them, as it will seamlessly transfer from their smartphone screen to Ford's Sync-system equipped cars. It requires a constant data flow and GPS signal access from the smartphone, as content isn't stored locally on the car's hardware.
