NAVIGON Press releases

MobileNavigator 7 conquers the pedestrian zone

Fri, 31 Oct 2008 00:00:00 CET

Hamburg, Germany 31/10/08 - Perfect orientation - that is what mobile phone navigation is all about. As long as you use the navigation software only in the car, everything runs smoothly, but speed limit information and congestion warnings are not going to be of much help in the pedestrian zone. "That is why we have adapted a GPS profile of our new software especially to pedestrian navigation", says Jörn Watzke, Product Line Management at NAVIGON. "In the new pedestrian mode, superfluous functions are filtered out to make space for our new extras. The MobileNavigator 7 can not only guide you reliably from Hamburg to Munich, but it can also take you confidently through any pedestrian zone too." From now on, a small compass on the display needle indicates the direction to your destination as the crow flies - as well as the distance exact to the metre. A second arrow indicates the current walking direction. The advantage of the additional information is that even if you do not keep to the prescribed route, you will never become disoriented. Moreover, in pedestrian mode, the software is not constrained by rigid adherence to main roads. So the MobileNavigator 7 also guides you through small lanes, narrow paths or pedestrian-only zones. As the NAVIGON manager sums it up: "It couldn't be more flexible."

Those who prefer to use the mobile phone as a reliable navigator in the car can also look forward to new functions. In addition to the speed assistant, the realistic signposting display, the quick access menu in which individual keys have clear commands assigned to them, and the familiar Friend-Finder function, the MobileNavigator 7 can now also call up dynamic content to the Smartphone. This means that via the congestion warning service TMC Pro, the software processes all relevant traffic information. On request, the mobile phone can also be provided with up-to-date information flashes. If you wish, you can call up the weather forecast for the day before setting off. "With this, any user can - on request - receive additional details that are of real help", says Jörn Watzke. Professional traffic information from the premium congestion warning service for Germany, Great Britain and France costs 24.95 Euro a year. Extension of this service to additional countries in Europe is already planned for the end of this year. The flash updates are available for 19.95 Euro a year. Once a subscription has been taken out, there is a new update every month. Further costs may arise, depending on the mobile phone contract.

The MobileNavigator 7 is compatible with virtually all Symbian S60 mobile phones (3rd edition). The software is available to download immediately, at www.navigon.com. The navigation software is free of charge for up to 14 days after initial activation. "This means that anyone can take his time, without obligation, to convince himself of the quality of our software - before deciding later on whether it is worthwhile registering for our service", explains Jörn Watzke. After the two-week test phase, the user has three options. First: They buy one of the eight regional variants for 69 Euro, for example for Germany, Austria and Switzerland. Second: They choose the Europe variant with map material for 40 countries for 99 Euro. Or third: They enjoy the map view - which remains free of charge - on your own mobile phone, but without the navigation options. In November, there will also be a new WAP portal for Smartphones, for simple and convenient unlocking. The direct link for downloading the MN7 software is: www.navigon.com/mn7symbian.

NAVIGON Fresh: new services for new navigation systems

Tue, 14 Oct 2008 00:00:00 CEST

Hamburg, Germany 14/10/2008 - Is it necessary to invest in a new navigation device to enjoy the latest navigation functions? The answer to this question is no. All NAVIGON devices can be updated at any time using NAVIGON Fresh. Whether Text-to-Speech, TMC Pro or Safety Cameras updates, additional functions are ready for you to download at www.navigon.de/mapsandservices. The free software can be installed on your PC with just a few clicks and you can then easily load the new features onto your navigation device. Alongside the latest software updates, NAVIGON now also offers Landmark View3D, Curve Warning, Text-to-Speech and Reality View Pro as upgrade options. As from November, the latest NAVIGON FreshMaps from the map experts Navteq will also be available for the current NAVIGON software.

Three-dimensional journeys: Landmark View3D

A single glance at the display will show you the correct route. That is the aim of good navigation. Landmark View3D displays points of interest and sights across Europe realistically and three-dimensionally on the navigation map. This makes orientation easier and therefore increases traffic safety. If you own a new NAVIGON 2200|2210 and do not want to do without this additional overview on your journeys, you can now download Landmark View3D from NAVIGON Fresh. The price: just 19.95 euros.
Improved safety thanks to Curve Warning
Simply update once and over 55,000 dangerous curves across Europe will be stored on your navigation system. Once the curve warning function has been installed on the new NAVIGON 2200|2210 or the NAVIGON 1200|1210, this smart passenger will optionally warn you before every dangerous curve on major roads and motorways. The price for more safety: only 9.95 euros.

Reality View Pro for perfect clarity

Keep to the right or turn off to the right at the next motorway intersection? An important question which you have to answer quickly when at the wheel. Reality View Pro reproduces every motorway intersection and every exit photo-realistically - including the navigation arrow on the correct lane. This useful feature is available for the NAVIGON 1200|1210 for 29.95 euros.

Text-to-Speech

The announcement "turn right into High Street" is much more accurate than "turn right now", and this additionally assists orientation in an unfamiliar environment. You can now download this new function for the NAVIGON 1210 from NAVIGON Fresh if you do not want to do without announcement of the correct street name. The feature will also be available for the NAVIGON 1200 in November. Text-to-Speech is available in English, German, French, Spanish and Swedish. The price: 19.95 euros.

Premium traffic congestion reports with TMC Pro

TMC is good, but TMC Pro is even better. In fact, it is the fastest, latest and most accurate congestion report service on the market. The new NAVIGON Fresh service is just the thing for every frequent traveller who wants to be on the safe side when it comes to avoiding traffic congestion. The NAVIGON 2200|2210 and the NAVIGON 7210 can be equipped with the premium service in Germany for 49.95 euros.

Regular Safety Cameras updates

Where are fixed speed traps currently set up? NAVIGON gives you the answer with its monthly Safety Cameras updates. All traffic cameras in 27 European countries are included. The service is available for almost all NAVIGON products: for the 12, 21, 22, 31, 51, 71 series and also for the TS6000T, TS7000T, NAVIGON 2100|2110 max, NAVIGON 8110, NAVIGON 7210 and the portable navigator 7 PDA. The price for effective protection of your driving licence: just 29.95 euros.

Software updates for six navigation devices

Always on the road with the latest software version: NAVIGON provides regular free software updates for devices from the NAVIGON product series. These incorporate general improvements made as part of continuing further development. NAVIGON Fresh automatically downloads the latest updates from the internet and automatically installs them on the corresponding navigation device.

MobileNavigator 7: the satnav turbo for your pocket PC

Mon, 29 Sep 2008 00:00:00 CEST

If you want to get quickly from A to B, there's one thing you're definitely not prepared to do: wait. Well, you don't have to. From today, the new MobileNavigator 7 guarantees speed in navigation for every pocket PC. The new software calculates the planned route more quickly and functions such as Text-to-Speech, Traffic Lane Assistant Pro, Reality View Pro, real directional displays and speed assistant make your journey even safer. Radar Info also helps to avoid unnecessary additions to your licence points. "Our new software enables us to combine hitherto unachieved precision in route guidance with unbelievable speed." says Jörn Watzke from Product Line Management at NAVIGON.

Thanks to the Text-to-Speech function, the smartphone does not just tell you which way to go at each junction but also has the right road name to hand - and can announce it loud and clear. The free TMC takes into account current traffic jam reports affecting your journey and quickly suggests an alternative route. Over two million specific destinations across 40 European countries are directly stored in the software.

On top of this, additional online services are also available for the first time: You can now book your hotel from the comfort of your car or find out what the weather is like at almost any European destination. "Thanks to our co-operation with HRS and the weather service Foreca.com, our new software can do more than simply get you to your destination." continued Jörn Watzke. "Our users receive up-to-date additional information which goes way beyond mere navigation." Whether you need the weather forecast or a hotel reservation: NAVIGON has pre-installed all services for free on the MobileNavigator 7. Calling up instant current information on the PDA display can incur costs, depending on your mobile phone contract.

From today, the MobileNavigator 7 including map of Europe is available for download in the NAVIGON online shop for €99. If you want to bring your maps up to date, you will find the latest data in "NAVIGON FreshMaps". A 24-month subscription to the maps is ready to download from NAVIGON Fresh for €99. The cost of buying the MN7 software and NAVIGON FreshMaps together is only €149 for both instead of €198.

NAVIGON 7210: unique and limitless design

Fri, 29 Aug 2008 00:00:00 CEST

Hamburg, 14th of July 2008 - Sometimes less is more. This is especially true of the minimalist design of the new NAVIGON 7210: fewer frills, instead very straightforward, extremely slim and 'apparently' no frame. Out of the ordinary, unique, and not just where its elegant look is concerned. Already a winner of the internationally acclaimed red dot design award, it isn't just the exterior that's impressive about this new style icon. NAVIGON's new designer navigation device with SmartDisplay will be available from September 2008.

The new NAVIGON 7210 combines the popular functionalities of the current product family with the very latest from the world of navigation devices: reliable Voice Recognition Pro, Curve Warner, Reality View Pro and Lane Assistant Pro, plus the brand new Landmark View3D, Emergency Help, Favourites on the Map and Curve Warner features. "Our new navigation device informs just in time acoustical and as well by a sign on the display about sharp and dangerous curves on highways and motorways. That leads to more safety on the road. To make orientation in urban areas even easier, the Lane Assistant shows you the perfect lane on screen before you turn off at large crossroads. With Landmark View3D, distinctive points of interest - such as architectural or historic sights - are now displayed on the maps in the form of realistic 3D representations", explains Jörn Watzke, Vice President Product Line Management at NAVIGON AG. "This aids orientation in not one but two ways - and that right across Europe." Beyond the city limits, Reality View Pro provides a clearer overview: Before complicated motorway junctions, the new NAVIGON 7210 shows drivers the right way to the correct exit. The course of the road, motorway signs and exits are visualised in a photo-realistic manner on the display. The Curve Warner alone knows about 55.000 dangerous turns in whole Europe.

The new "Emergency Help" functionality indicates the vehicle's current location and helps find useful points of contact such as hospitals, police stations, petrol stations or pharmacies. These destinations can be accessed through the menu, displayed on the map and integrated into the navigation at the touch of a button. Additional information, such as a telephone number, is also displayed, and can conveniently be dialled via the Bluetooth hands-free kit.

Voice Recognition Pro, which allows you to enter destinations at the touch of a single button, and new individual special destination options round off the comprehensive package of functionalities of this new designer navigator. In addition to the over two million existing special destinations, you can now also save your own special destinations and add them to the map, giving the navigation device a very personal touch.

Inside the NAVIGON 7210, a high-powered 600 MHz processor, 64 MB of internal memory and 2 GB of flash memory are hard at work to bring the new functionalities to life in outstanding quality on the brilliant 4.3 inch SmartDisplay in 16:9 format. A powerful lithium-ion rechargeable battery (1.600 mAh) guarantees several hours of unrestricted travel. After that, the car charger with integrated TMC antenna provides new energy.

With the NAVIGON Fresh online service, the NAVIGON 7210 can be brought up to date at any time: Registering within 30 days of purchase guarantees a special rebate on the price of 99 euros for the very latest maps for 24 months. A new update from the NAVTEQ experts, including new roads, house numbers and special destinations, is available to download every three months. The new NAVIGON 7210 comes with maps of 40 European countries, and will be available from September priced at 349 euros.

NAVIGON 2200 I 2210: premium quality for first-time buyers

Fri, 29 Aug 2008 00:00:00 CEST

Hamburg, 29th August 2008 - It looks elegant and is barely larger than the palm of your hand - but it covers nearly all of Europe. No doubt about it: when it comes to route planning, the little NAVIGON 2210 is a pretty big deal. Thanks to new software technology, routes between Paris, London or Berlin are calculated more quickly, and Text-to-Speech ensures even greater precision of navigation announcements. New functionalities such as Emergency Help round off the repertoire of the NAVIGON 2200 | 2210.

"A selection of our best navigation functionalities, encased in high-quality design: perfection down to the smallest detail is what makes our new pilot stand out", says Jörn Watzke, Vice President Product Line Management at NAVIGON. Framed by a chrome ring, the NAVIGON 2200 | 2210 shines thanks to its elegantly polished surface and its brilliant 3.5-inch display. The TMC antenna is cleverly integrated into the car charger cable, helping your NAVIGON co-pilot guide you around every traffic jam. To make sure you're always on the right track when your way is clear, NAVIGON has integrated Lane Assistant Pro and Reality View Pro into its new companion. At multi-lane crossroads in urban areas or at complex motorway exits and junctions, the NAVIGON 2210 indicates the perfect lane well in advance, ensuring that you reach your destination easily and safely. The usefulness of the new Emergency Help is not limited to exceptional circumstances: whether you're looking for a hospital, a police station or the nearest garage or pharmacy, you can chose to additionally display the contact data of the selected destination, such as its address and telephone numbers, and be guided there directly at the touch of a single button.
Technically, a 375 MHz processor gets the NAVIGON 2200 | 2210 going, and with 512 MB ROM / 2 GB ROM and 64 MB RAM, it swiftly calculates even the most complex routes. The NAVIGON Fresh online service allows you to upgrade the NAVIGON 2200 | 2210 with additional, state-of-the-art extras. Along with regular software updates, the service also provides the latest speed trap information for the whole of Europe. NAVIGON FreshMaps even lets you bring your sat nav up to date every three months with current maps of Europe supplied by map specialists Navteq. The price of a 24-month subscription: 99 euros. To ensure that you always have enough room for all additional services, you can easily extend the memory of the device later on by means of a Micro SD card.

The NAVIGON 2210 costs 179 euros in the Europe version with road maps of 40 countries, while the 2200 version for Germany, Austria and Switzerland is available for just 149 euros.

NAVIGON 1200 I 1210: our new sat nav bargains

Fri, 29 Aug 2008 00:00:00 CEST

Hamburg, 29th August 2008 - The latest software technology, Lane Assistant Pro, Speed Assistant and individual special destinations: the new NAVIGON 1200 | 1210 knows the basics of modern navigation inside out.
"Modern design, ease of use, extensive functionality requiring minimal space, all at an excellent price - that's what makes our new 12 series highly attractive, especially to first-time sat nav users and price-conscious buyers," says Jörn Watzke, Vice President Product Line Management at NAVIGON. A look at the details is especially worthwhile for bargain hunters and first-time sat nav users: The latest Lane Assistant Pro offers a better overview and shows the ideal lane on its brilliant 3.5-inch display before you turn off at multi-lane junctions. "Reality View Light" displays motorway exits realistically. In addition to two million pre-entered special destinations, users can now even save their own favourites to the map under a name of their choice and indicated by a special icon. Emergency Help gives access to all relevant information on the nearest hospital, the closest police station, on garages and pharmacies in the area at a single click. In addition to their locations, NAVIGON provides contact data such as addresses and telephone numbers. Speed Assistant and Radar Info round off the range of functionalities of the NAVIGON 1200 | 1210. And its new software and 375 MHz processor with 64 MB RAM ensure that your route is swiftly calculated.
The memory of the device can easily be expanded by means of a Micro SD card - especially useful if you want to upgrade your sat nav with additional functionalities such as Text-to-Speech. As usual, the selection of features is available to download via our NAVIGON Fresh online service - and so are the NAVIGON FreshMaps maps of 40 European countries, which are updated every three months. The price of a 24-month subscription: 99 euros.

The new NAVIGON guide is available in two versions: the 1200 version with maps of Germany, Austria and Switzerland costs 129 euros, the NAVIGON 1210 with all information on 40 European countries is priced at 149 euros.

NAVIGON Fresh with fresh extras

Thu, 24 Jul 2008 00:00:00 CEST

Your sat nav tells you the name of every road as you turn off - and en route, you can rely on its premium traffic jam warnings. For anyone who doesn't want to be without Text-to-Speech and TMC Pro, NAVIGON Fresh is the perfect solution. The update program is available for all NAVIGON devices and can be downloaded free of charge at www.navigon.com. It only takes a few clicks to install the software on your PC and conveniently download the new extras to your navigation device. In addition to the latest FreshMaps maps, software updates, regular information on speed traps, and Reality View as an additional navigation function, NAVIGON is now also offering Text-to-Speech and TMC Pro as upgrades. The latest NAVIGON Fresh Maps for the actual NAVIGON software are available by the end of July 2008.

Text-to-Speech

Compared to "now turn right", the instruction "now turn right onto Queen Street" is far more precise and additionally aids orientation in unfamiliar surroundings. If you don't want to miss out on having the correct road names announced as you drive, you can now download the latest extra for the new NAVIGON 2100 | 2110 max via NAVIGON Fresh. Text-to-Speech is available for Germany, France, Great Britain, Ireland, Spain and Sweden at a price of 19.95 euros.

Premium Traffic Jam Reports with TMC Pro

TMC is good - Premium TMC is better. To be exact, TMC Pro is the most current, the fastest and most precise traffic jam reporting service on the market. For frequent travellers who want to be 100% certain when it comes to traffic jam avoidance, the new NAVIGON Fresh Service is just the thing. For 49.95 euros, the 21max series can be supplied with the premium service in Germany, France, Finland and Great Britain.

Regular speed camera updates

Where are permanently installed speed cameras currently lurking? NAVIGON provides the answer to this question with its monthly speed trap updates. Every speed camera in 27 European countries is listed here. The service is available for all NAVIGON products of the 21, 31, 51 and 71 series, and also for the TS6000T, TS7000T and the Mobile Navigator 6 PDA. From August, updates will also be available for the NAVIGON 2100 | 2110 and 8110. The price of effectively warding off licence penalty points: 29.95 euros.

Software updates for six navigation devices

Always travel with the latest software version: NAVIGON regularly provides free software updates for devices of the NAVIGON product family that allow you to benefit from general improvements we make as we continuously optimise our products. This service is also available via NAVIGON Fresh.

NAVIGON 2150 max: more functionality, better overview

Tue, 08 Jul 2008 00:00:00 CEST

Hamburg, 8th of July 2008 - Summertime is travel time. About two months after the launch of the 2110 max, NAVIGON is now releasing a new navigation device so that prospective holidaymakers always have the latest navigation functionalities at their fingertips when they head out into the countryside. Lane Assistant Pro, Reality View Pro and up-to-date maps of 40 European countries make the current NAVIGON twins ideal companions - and not just for the summer months. The new NAVIGON 2150 max additionally features Text-to-Speech, announces street names when giving directions, and includes a Bluetooth hands-free kit.

"The 4.3-inch screen in 16:9 format not only displays the correct lane at the next intersection or the next motorway junction. Drivers are told the exact name of the road they need to take", explains Jörn Watzke, Vice President Product Line Management at NAVIGON. "There's no better way to provide a clear overview and convey a greater sense of security." And to allow drivers to keep both hands on the wheel even when they're on the phone, NAVIGON has integrated a state-of-the-art Bluetooth hands-free kit into its new navigator. Connecting to a mobile phone is quick and easy - particularly useful on long journeys.

Long-distance travellers will also value the outstanding battery life of up to three hours. And if that's not enough, the charger cable with integrated TMC antenna can supply the NAVIGON 2150 max with fresh power. The digital companion also reports any traffic jams on the planned route and suggests an alternative route.

Thanks to optimised destination entry with large letter fields and intelligent input assistance, you can type in any route in Germany or right across Europe in seconds. "If you like, you can plan your entire journey in advance at home, save it, and then set off at your leisure", says Jörn Watzke. With over two million special destinations, the smart companion can always point you to the nearest petrol station, a suitable restaurant or popular sights.

In addition, the NAVIGON Fresh online service allows you to bring the NAVIGON 2150 max up to date at any time: Registering within 30 days of purchase guarantees access to the very latest maps for 24 months at a special price of 19.95 euros instead of 99 euros. New updates with new roads, house numbers and special destinations are available from the Navteq experts to download every three months. The new NAVIGON 2150 max including map material for 40 European countries will be in shops mid of July, priced at 299 euros.

NAVTEQ secures all NAVIGON off and onboard business for three years

Mon, 09 Jun 2008 00:00:00 CEST

Sulzbach, 9 June 2008 - NAVTEQ (NYSE: NVT), a leading global provider of digital maps for vehicle navigation and location-based solutions, has reached a three year agreement for Europe to provide NAVIGON with maps as a preferred supplier. The agreement covers onboard navigation across all NAVIGON's PNDs plus software products for other PND brands and mobile phone customers worldwide. This is in addition to a recent contract to supply mapping products for NAVIGON's off board business.

It is the most comprehensive contract NAVIGON has awarded NAVTEQ in the companies' six year relationship and is a logical progression following many joint global successes across different business sectors. The most recent illustration of this successful collaboration is NAVIGON's FreshMaps initiative, which highlights the company's strong wish to develop the map aspect of its business. With FreshMaps, NAVIGON customers will be able to get NAVTEQ maps updated every three months.

The intention of this agreement is that the two companies will work together over the coming years on both a series of new products as well as a variety of initiatives involving NAVTEQ products and services.

"While we had an established and successful track record with NAVTEQ, we took an objective approach to this contract," explained Jörn Watzke, Vice President Product Line Management. "After exhaustive analysis, we selected NAVTEQ for the quality of data, value of offering and ability to strategically collaborate with NAVIGON to help us achieve our objectives and significantly grow our global PND and wireless business."

"As NAVIGON is one of the world's leading innovators of high-quality navigation, we are very pleased with the three year agreement. Given NAVIGON's focus on introducing new content and capabilities, NAVTEQ is well placed to provide support, "said Jeff Mize, Executive Vice President, NAVTEQ Global Sales. "We introduced over thirty new content features in 2007 alone and will be supporting our customers in bringing a variety of additional features to the market in the future."

NAVIGON 8110: three-dimensional mobile navigation

Tue, 04 Mar 2008 00:00:00 CET

Hamburg, 4 March 2008 - Optimum clarity thanks to the new Lane Assistant Pro and the enhanced Reality View Pro. New software technology provides even faster route calculation and quicker response times, with an integrated MP3 player, picture viewer and FM transmitter providing the best in multimedia connection. There is no doubt: NAVIGON 8110 will be setting new standards at CeBIT 2008 as far as route planning is concerned. A new highlight with the NAVIGON navigator: for the first time ever, Panorama View3D provides a three-dimensional display of the entire route. This will guarantee a completely new driving experience.

"Our new navigator shows what today's navigation equipment is capable of: technology and design in perfection", explains Peter Scheufen, Chairman of NAVIGON AG. In its frame of brushed stainless steel and perfectly mounted in its new active holder, the NAVIGON 8110 cuts a dash. End of February 2008 it was already awarded with an "honourable mention" of the international red dot design award.

The software is at the heart of NAVIGON's smart navigator, significantly improving navigation options: Panorama View3D continually displays a three-dimensional road layout whilst you are driving. This means that mountains and valleys en route are displayed as they appear in real life, and bridges and tunnels are displayed on the road layout. Reality View Pro now provides an even more realistic display of awkward motorway junctions and the correct exits. The new Lane Assistant Pro even provides a view of the road beyond the junction, as well as showing the correct lane to take at the junction itself. Jörn Watzke, Vice President for Product Line Management at NAVIGON, sums it up by saying "it ensures better orientation and consequently improves safety".

The latest generation of Bluetooth hands-free kit is especially practical, providing easier and faster connection to mobile telephones. A command can be given to move numbers from the phone book into the navigator's memory. The integrated USB port can be used to copy address information from MS Outlook straight into the navigator's list of favourites. Text-to-Speech function, precise Voice Recognition Pro and clear menu structure all ensure the navigator is simple and safe to use. Once you say the name of the town and street, the NAVIGON 8110 will take care of everything from there. There is an option to change your destination as soon as you have said it. The town, street and house number can be changed with a single request. So you only need to touch the screen once to plan your entire route. Voice Recognition Pro does the rest: route planning has never been so easy.

The NAVIGON 8110 contains a 533 MHz processor with 512 MB ROM and 128 MB RAM as well as a separate graphics accelerator, enabling the latest navigation functions to be displayed quickly on the 4.8-inch screen. The antenna for receiving traffic congestion information is fully integrated in the charging cable. The 8110 is the only navigator in the NAVIGON range with access to the latest, fastest and most accurate traffic information service on the market: TMC Pro. All this at no extra cost. The navigator also comes with extensive multimedia provision: photos stored on SD cards can be displayed on the brilliant 16:9 screen, either individually or as a slide show. The NAVIGON 8110 also has full MP3 player functionality. You can choose to listen to music through the built-in loudspeakers, headphones or radio sets. The FM Radio Transmitter transmits all audio signals in the best possible sound quality - including the precise navigation announcements.

Lane Assistant, PIN code protection (protection against theft) and a POI memory containing more than 2 million destinations complete the all-inclusive navigation package. The price for this fantastic travel companion: 449 Euro - including a map of Europe that covers 38 countries. During the first 24 months after purchase the device can be kept up to date with latest maps free of charge by the new service NAVIGON FreshMaps. An update will be provided every three months.
NAVIGON 8110 will be available end of April 2008.

Unique worldwide: “NAVIGON FreshMaps” – always on the move with the most up-to-date maps

Tue, 04 Mar 2008 00:00:00 CET

Hamburg, 4 March 2008 - Up-to-date map material is playing an increasingly important role in navigation devices. More than 1000 kilometers of infrastructure change every year in Europe. That includes among others several thousand miles of roads. That is all the more annoying when the navigation device displays a turning situation that in fact no longer exists. The solution to this problem is now offered by NAVIGON, with a service that is unique throughout the world: "NAVIGON FreshMaps". Every three months, the navigation expert now provides a full data package from the map professionals NAVTEQ, covering the whole of Europe, available for downloading. This update includes the full map content, with road data for new and altered roads, and including special destinations.

"Most users use their navigation device in the certainty that they will always get from A to B without problems", says Jörn Watzke, Vice President for Product Line Management at NAVIGON. "Many people do however forget that the precondition for perfect route planning is optimum map information. But with "NAVIGON FreshMaps", we inform the users immediately when up-to-date route information is available for downloading, and at the same time provide the opportunity to download it. This is not limited to roadblocks - we offer a complete update. Nothing could be more customer-friendly."

Via the free-of-charge download portal NAVIGON Fresh, the new maps are easily downloaded to the individual navigation device from the Internet. The program is available free of charge on the NAVIGON homepage www.navigon.com, and is installed on the PC with just a few clicks. In addition to the new service "NAVIGON FreshMaps", regular flash or software updates for NAVIGON products are also available.
The service, in which experts check every single change daily, costs 99 euro, paid as a one-off fee, covering 24 months. For the new NAVIGON 2110 max, the 24-month flat rate package is on offer on registration within 30 days of purchase for a total of 19.95 euro. For the NAVIGON 8110, for the first two years the service is even free of charge. NAVIGON FreshMaps can be used for the whole family of NAVIGON products. Further information is available on the Internet, at www.navigon.com.

NAVIGON 2110 max: impressive performance at an impressive price

Tue, 04 Mar 2008 00:00:00 CET

Hamburg, 4 March 2008 - Always thinking one junction ahead: that is just one of many things that the new NAVIGON 2110 max is capable of that sets it apart from conventional navigation equipment. The enhanced Lane Assistant Pro tells you which lane you should be in well ahead of the next junction. "The new clear brilliant display provides easy orientation at a glance", explains Jörn Watzke, Vice President for Product Line Management at NAVIGON. "So you can concentrate fully on the traffic, never having to worry about needing to move from the inside lane to the outside lane just before the junction appears." The Lane Assistant Pro is not the only feature that makes the journey from A to B a safer one: Reality View Pro, TMC congestion avoidance and optimised destination input with large character fields and intelligent help for entering details ensure perfect clarity and simple route planning. Jörn Watzke cuts to the chase, stating that it offers "impressive performance at an impressive price".

"The 2110 max is one of the fastest and most accurate navigators of its kind", confirms Jörn Watzke. "And with functions such as Lane Assistant Pro and Reality View Pro, it is well ahead of its time as regards scope of functionality."

Whereas the Lane Assistant Pro ensures better orientation at junctions in towns and rural areas, Reality View Pro comes into its own by providing clear displays of motorway junctions and exits. The 4.3-inch display in 16:9 format provides a realistic representation.

It is not just the clarity of route display that draws everyone's eyes to the NAVIGON 2110 max. Behind its chic, slim lacquered frame, a 400 MHz processor with 64 MB ROM and 64 MB RAM ensures speedy navigation. The battery life is also very good, even on longer journeys, lasting up to three hours. If that is not long enough, the charging cable with integrated TMC antenna will provide the NAVIGON 2110 max with the necessary power boost.

You can update the NAVIGON 2110 max at any time via the NAVIGON Fresh update portal. For example, the exact pronunciation of street names with text-to-speech, and traffic congestion warnings for England, Finland and France with Pay TMC. You can therefore choose precisely which navigation functions you really need to upgrade.

The NAVIGON 2110 max is available in two versions: the Europe variant NAVIGON 2110 max provides orientation assistance in 38 countries and costs 259 euro. The regional variant of the NAVIGON 2100 max is on the market for 229 euro.

For further information on NAVIGON, NAVIGON Fresh and the latest 2110 max, visit www.navigon.com.

New perspectives in the mobile phone navigation market segment

Mon, 11 Feb 2008 00:00:00 CET

Hamburg, 7th February 2008 - A clear display, loads of computing power and an integral GPS receiver: more and more mobile phones provide everything you need not only for unlimited communication but also for navigation and localised services using automatic positioning. Until now, though, what was missing for mobile phone navigation to become established in the market was the right business model. "Most providers of navigation software confine themselves to transfering what can be done with PND navigation on to a mobile phone. This approach does not leverage the combination of navigation and connected device", explains Gerhard Mayr, Vice-President OEM Sales EMEA at NAVIGON. "We want to do more. We combine navigation with the Internet. Our online services go far beyond traditional route planning and enable us to come up with new business models which benefit the mobile phone manufacturer, the network operator or the end user in varying degrees, depending on exactly how they are slanted".

Mobile phone manufacturers: the battle for a new market segment in navigation
The partnership between Samsung and NAVIGON is ground-breaking. NAVIGON's MobileNavigator comes already installed on the new SGH-i550 and SGH-i560 mobiles. That is to say, the maps and software are built-in, saved in the mobile phone itself. This means that there is no charge for each navigation session, as is the case with many of the other products available on the market. For a two-week trial period, users can try out the navigation software for free and after that they have to pay a fee to activate it. "It's because the price of GPS chips for mobiles is coming down that the navigation function will become standard in future", predicts Gerhard Mayr. "We are working on the assumption that even by the end of 2008, every tenth mobile phone will have a GPS chip." NAVIGON is already now supplying the necessary software solution, which is cost-neutral for mobile phone manufacturers to install on any GPS mobile. At no extra charge, the end user receives a digital town plan and the option of a full-scale navigation device.

Network operators: "Connected Navigation" as the driver for data services
The latest traffic information via the Internet, the weather forecast at your destination or a handy hotel booking service via your mobile - all interactive online services have one thing in common: they offer tremendous potential for generating income from advertising, sponsorship and commission. This is already the business motivation behind most websites on the Internet: "We are in talks with mobile network providers who have already said that they will do away completely with any additional data charges in return for a percentage of the sales", says Gerhard Mayr. "In this way, the network operators can profit from this attractive market as well, with no additional investment." For example: if you search for hotels in the area when you are travelling, you can book your overnight stay directly via your mobile. While the end user benefits from the attractive terms of the partnership with the online hotel portal HRS - HOTEL RESERVATION SERVICE, a global electronic hotel reservation system based on a database of over 225,000 hotels, the service providers earn commission as the intermediary. If you are looking for hotels, shops or companies in the area, an advertisement will pop up if available.

Users: added value with no added costs
"With our concept of Connected Navigation, traditional route planning is simply the basis for new services", sums up Gerhard Mayr. "For us, it's a question of wanting to provide the user with relevant additional information, anywhere and any time, free of charge. We help them to find their way around in an entirely new place, in a fun way." As well as the route planning for example, you can also locate the nearest coffee-shop, together with user evaluations and comments, the cheapest hotel in town, a cash machine for a particular bank or the nearest out-of-hours chemist's. These are clear advantages for all users.

NAVIGON is going to put the subject of Connected Navigation right at the top of the agenda for the industry as early as this year. "The concepts have already gone beyond the prototype stage", says Gerhard Mayr.

ViaMichelin and Navigon join forces in GPS navigation

Fri, 25 Jan 2008 00:00:00 CET

According to this agreement, the forthcoming ViaMichelin-Navigon PND range will be launched in France during the second quarter of 2008. It may be extended to other countries at a later date. Future ViaMichelin-Navigon products will have the option to double as travel guides and will benefit from the connectivity already developed between ViaMichelin PNDs and the ViaMichelin.com website. This includes for instance, allowing the user to prepare a trip on the website and to then export, in one click, an address or a route from the website to the PND.

"This agreement will provide economies of scale which are made necessary by heavy pressure on PND prices. By relying on Navigon for PNDs, and by developing more partnerships, ViaMichelin will bring its travel assistance services to more consumers every day, making use all types of digital technologies." said Alain Cuq, CEO of ViaMichelin.

"We are happy to accelerate our development in France taking into account the strength of ViaMichelin in this area. Customers will benefit from the strength of two big international 'players' on the navigation market. "added Peter Scheufen, CEO of Navigon.

About ViaMichelin
A wholly owned subsidiary of the Michelin Group, ViaMichelin designs, develops and markets digital mobility assistance products and services for road users in Europe. Launched in 2001 and drawing upon a century of Michelin experience in travel, ViaMichelin provides services for both the general public and for businesses. It provides a complete service offering (maps, route plans, hotel and restaurant details and traffic and tourist information, etc), across a range of media including the Internet (www.viamichelin.co.uk), mobile phones, Personal Digital Assistants (PDAs), GPS navigation systems, etc.

Small, but effective: the new NAVIGON 2110

Mon, 01 Oct 2007 00:00:00 CEST

Great navigation for little money. The new navigation system NAVIGON 2110 sees a new device arriving on the market in autumn 2007 that will excite first time buyers of mobile navigation. Like its bigger "siblings" NAVIGON 5110 and 7110, the compact, easy to use 2110 features high-performance software behind a smart outer shell. And the best thing about it - the NAVIGON 2110 is available in two different, contemporary colours - black and white. Also in terms of technology, the smallest device in the growing NAVIGON product family is not far short of the two other models. It too is fitted with all the essential functions expected of modern Navis today.

The NAVIGON 2110 is up to now the only NAVIGON product without a visible TMC antenna. The traffic news receiver is integrated into the car charging wire, making the handy route planner even more compact. The free TMC module directs you quickly around every traffic jam. Also saving time and fuel. The Lane Assistant, developed by NAVIGON, always guides the driver to the correct lane on multi-lane roads.

Thanks to improved route calculation, the intelligent software shows the correct way to your destination without long waiting times. With over two million special destinations, the clever pilot drives you to any desired destination in Germany and beyond. The SIRFStar III GPS receiver module sees to optimal position fixing. The in-built PIN code anti-theft protection sees to added security even after leaving the vehicle.

Inside the quick pilot, a 400 MHz processor sets the pace. 64 ROM and 64 RAM quickly conjure up 2D or 3D maps on the 3.5 inch light display. The integrated 1,100 mAh lithium-ionic battery delivers up to three and a half hours worth of power. That will last even for long journeys. At less than 160 grams, the slender Hightech Navi counts amongst the lightest in the market. Alongside its compact mass and technical highlights, the price makes the smart route planner something quite special: The NAVIGON 2100 with maps of Germany, Austria and Switzerland is available in shops from 199 Euros. With information covering Western Europe, the NAVIGON 2110 at 279 Euros is still unrivalled in value. Further information can be found on the internet at www.navigon.com or via the NAVIGON Hotline, tel. 01805 6284466.

First-class mobile navigation

Tue, 18 Sep 2007 00:00:00 CEST

State-of-the-art technology, but not too expensive - a smart design, but nevertheless functional. Modern navigation systems in the vast medium-price range need to offer much more than that in order to be successful in the market. With the 5110, NAVIGON is launching a route planner which meets all the requirements when it comes to being the permanent companion of stressed motorists. Thanks to "Reality View" and "Lane Assistant", the intelligent travel companion boasts convenient features which set it apart from every other device in the market.

"Reality View" and "Lane Assistant" make every car journey more safe - at motorway junctions, the two ensure that drivers have a better overview than ever before. The NAVIGON 5110 realistically displays the course of the road - including signposts and speed limits. At the same time, the "Lane Assistant" arrow indicates the correct lane. This is particularly useful whenever you are due to change motorways and there are several exit lanes to choose from. It also enhances the safety of motorists. With more than two million special destinations, the next petrol station, your favourite restaurant or an interesting museum are no further than the push of a button away. The PIN code protection feature for optimum theft avoidance prevents the much sought-after NAVIGON 5110 from being used by people who are not authorised to do so. Users can choose from short, quick or optimum route.

As soon as the entry has been effected, the fast processor with 400 MHz together with 256 MB ROM and 64 MB RAM ensure that the route is displayed on the 3.5 inch display. The exact location is ascertained by the modern SIRFStar III module. The power provided by the lithium-ion batteries (1200 mAH) lasts for about four and a half hours, which allows for extensive trips. Alternatively, the electronic co-pilot can be connected to an external power source in the car.

With a weight of only 145 grammes and the dimensions 84x107x23 millimetres, the compact NAVIGON 5110 is barely bigger than the palm of a hand. Equipped with map software for Germany, Austria and Switzerland, the chrome-coloured scout costs 299 Euros. Identical in construction, the NAVIGON 5110 has maps of Europe and is sold at a price of 349 Euros. Further information is available online at www.navigon.com or via the NAVIGON hotline, tel. 01805 6284466.

NAVIGON supplies completely up-to-date map material

Tue, 10 Jul 2007 00:00:00 CEST

Almost one million updated kilometres of road and over 250,000 new points of interest: With the Europe Map 2007/08, NAVIGON is offering all PNA users (series 6000 and 7000) brand-new maps for 38 European countries as from June 2007. Up to now the information was available with every version of MobileNavigator Software. Now the new data is available as a separate to the whole of Europe for the first time.

From A - Andorra to Z - Zurich: The new maps cover 99.9 percent of all roads in 20 European states, and at least the larger towns plus main traffic routes in 18 countries. NAVIGON offers the most comprehensive data material - and at 99 euros it is also the lowest priced one. In comparison: Customers have to pay up to 50 euros more for competitor's map updates.

A couple of clicks on the internet and your own route planner is updated. In the NAVIGON online shop the 1.9 gigabyte data packet can be downloaded easily. The only requirements are a computer with Windows XP or Vista operating system, an SD map reader and a 2 GB SD memory card. Further info and download at: www.navigon.com.

NAVIGON 7100 – unrestricted mobile navigation

Wed, 06 Jun 2007 00:00:00 CEST

This year, NAVIGON, an expert in the field of innovative navigation software, is due to also set its own trends in the world of devices for the first time. The NAVIGON 7100 will be launched in the summer of 2007. The new route planner stands out thanks to its elegant appearance designed by the Studio Phoenix Design - and has already won the international red dot design award "Best of the Best" as a result. At the same time, the classy black piano lacquer shell accommodates the most modern components available in the sector.

With "Reality View" and "Lane Assistant", the NAVIGON 7100 offers more than any other navigation system in the market - previously unknown clarity at confusing traffic intersections. Specifically, the intelligent co-pilot is capable of realistically displaying motorway junctions. Furthermore, the "Lane Assistant" helps users find their way and makes every trip more safe. An arrow on the 4.3 inch touch screen display indicates the right lane. This feature is particularly useful whenever there are several turns to choose from.

With the free TMC, every traffic jam can be avoided effortlessly, and there are more than two million special destinations saved to the software. Thanks to an integrated hands-free headset via Bluetooth, nothing stands in the way of convenient and safe mobile communication.The PIN code feature ensures optimum theft protection. Every route can be calculated according to four different criteria - fast, short, optimum or exceptionally picturesque. Depending to the user's preference, it will then be displayed in either 2D, 3D or the practical map overview.

The heart of the clever scout is a 400 MHz processor. 64 MByte RAM and 256 MB ROM respectively guarantee that the route is calculated quickly. The exact location is ascertained by the modern SIRFStar III GPS receiver module. The 1200 mAh lithium-ion batteries supply the high-tech device with power over a period of four hours.

At a size of 92x130x23 millimetres and a weight of 195 grammes, the NAVIGON 7100 is a very handy navigation system which fits into almost every pocket. The version with map software on England, Wales, Scotland and Ireland costs Euro 429. Identical in construction, the NAVIGON 7110 knows its way around Europe and is available at a price of Euro 499. Further information is available online at www.navigon.com or via the NAVIGON hotline: 0905-8480 701.

World premiere at CeBIT: NAVIGON presents navigation systems featuring quality design and outstanding technology

Wed, 14 Mar 2007 00:00:00 CET

Hamburg, 14 March 2007 - Technical perfection packaged in breathtaking design - at CeBIT 2007 NAVIGON will present its own in-house developed navigation systems. The technologically advanced, innovative NAVIGON 7100 and NAVIGON 5100 systems combine premium quality materials and exclusive additional functions in an outstandingly elegant design. The NAVIGON systems' ultra-desirable style emphasizes the unique quality of the devices and sets distinctive accents from the outset. These navigation systems are the first on the market to feature high-level contemporary design as a supreme visual complement to their top technology.

Both systems comprise premium hardware components in uncompromisingly high quality. The NAVIGON 5100 features an elegant slimline chrome housing, while the NAVIGON 7100 is in elegant piano black. The unique new mounting design is attached to the navigation device by simply twisting, and effectively rounds off the stylish design.

Special features offered by NAVIGON 7100: Full-comfort hands-free system plus widescreen navigation
The larger NAVIGON 7100 features a wealth of functional details such as a convenient integrated Bluetooth hands-free system for mobile phones, leaving both hands free for safe steering during the journey. Its bright 4.3" full color display is in easy-to-view 16:9 widescreen format.

New: "Reality View" makes sense of traffic confusion
When traffic situations threaten to become confusing, the NAVIGON 7100 and NAVIGON 5100 now include the "Reality View" function, offering outstanding support for drivers. This view mode displays signposts realistically, giving drivers the information they need to move into the correct lane easily and keep cool at major highway intersections. The brilliant color displays, in 16:9 widescreen format in the NAVIGON 7100 and with 2D or 3D map display selection, supply a clear overview at all times. The TMC (traffic message channel) function automatically selects alternative routes to avoid traffic jams.

Travel security with PIN protection
The PIN code request function protects your coveted day-to-day companions from theft.

Prices, availability and warranty
The NAVIGON 7100 (regional maps) and 7110 (map of Europe) will be available from the summer from a broad range of retailers at 450 euros (incl. VAT) and at 500 euros respectively. The NAVIGON 5100 and 5110 will be available at 350 euros (incl. VAT) and at 400 euros respectively (both RRP). NAVIGON offers a 2-year warranty.

NAVIGON launches own navigation systems

Thu, 08 Mar 2007 00:00:00 CET

NAVIGON, a global leader in the mobile navigation sector, is launching a range of own-brand navigation systems developed in-house, announced NAVIGON CEO Peter Scheufen today in Hamburg. The new NAVIGON-brand systems will feature distinctive design and a sophisticated range of additional functions to give them competitive edge. NAVIGON will present the first of the new products next week at the CeBIT trade show in Hanover.

"We consolidated our strength with our award-winning Mobile Navigator software and expanded our position in the navigation market. To continue our success story and to complement our software, we will offer navigation systems in an exciting design and with outstanding hardware components", said Scheufen, explaining that in previous months NAVIGON had lavished investments on its Hamburg and Würzburg sites and built up a comprehensive hardware expertise. "The new devices are currently undergoing the final round of tests and are planned to be in the shops by early summer."

NAVIGON successfully operates on the GPS navigation growth market since 1991. According to German market research company Gesellschaft für Konsumforschung (GfK), sales of navigation systems in Germany for 2006 showed a fourfold increase year-on-year. Peter Scheufen predicts that demand will grow further in 2007: "We anticipate that growth will rise to over 50 per cent, and we see enormous opportunities for NAVIGON-brand navigation systems in this booming market."

3GSM: NAVIGON presents GPS navigation for more mobile phones

Mon, 12 Feb 2007 00:00:00 CET

NAVIGON, a leading supplier of navigation systems, is presenting new navigation solutions for mobile telephones at 3GSM in Barcelona. Among the products being launched are the award-winning MobileNavigator 6 for mobile phones based on Symbian S60 (2nd and 3rd Edition) and the Windows Mobile operating system. The new software transforms more phones than ever before into navigation devices - be they for cars, bicycles or pedestrians. In addition, a wide range of functions makes navigation by mobile phone even easier to use.

The new version of MobileNavigator 6 for Symbian S60 can be used with more mobile phones than ever before. All maps and programme files are pre-installed on the memory card supplied. Just a few settings and a brief registration via an online connection are all that is needed to upgrade a mobile phone to a navigation device. If the mobile phone does not yet have an integrated GPS receiver, an additional module with a wireless Bluetooth connection can provide accurate positioning. All the functions of MobileNavigator 6 will then be available on the phone, including "Signpost Display", the "Go Home" function and "Speed Assistant".

MobileNavigator 6 has been specially adapted by NAVIGON for the smaller display of mobile phones. The new arrow display guarantees accurate directions in a very compact space, and short commands make it easier to operate the smart navigator phone. A good measure of fun is included as well: FriendFinder enables users to forward their current position to friends via text message. Meeting up after shopping, for example, or for dates in unknown territory then becomes child's play. In addition, the European maps contain numerous Points of Interest such as restaurants, filling stations and tourist sights, making them convenient and quick to find.

Andreas Westhoff, Chief Sales Officer of NAVIGON AG, sees enormous development potential for navigation applications on mobile phones: "Thanks to their tremendous distribution, mobile telephones are an ideal navigation device. We are convinced that navigation by mobile phone or smartphone will open up a whole new range of applications, including for pedestrians or use on holiday trips. Night owls and tourist will be thrilled!"

The new navigation solutions for mobile devices are at the show until 15 February 2007 at the NAVIGON exhibition booth (Stand No. 2D78).

NAVIGON 3100 series: Easy, Fast and Affordable

Wed, 07 Feb 2007 00:00:00 CET

NAVIGON 3100 series is the latest addition to the NAVIGON product family from the international navigation system specialists. The "little brother" of NAVIGON's TS 7000T, the 3100 series is designed for first-time buyers, combining all the benefits of NAVIGON software in a compact device and at an affordable price. Available from only 269 euros and only 11 x 8 cm in size, it is an ideal travelling companion. The NAVIGON 3100 comes in region versions whereas the 3110 contains maps for 37 European countries. It is the only device in its price category to include NAVIGON's own Lane Assistant as standard feature - a unique assistant that enables drivers to find their way fast and easily through even the most confusing locations. As safety feature it also embeds a complete database of Speed Cameras.

Simplicity and speed are the keynotes of NAVIGON's products. In the latest model of the NAVIGON product family, maps are displayed in 2D or 3D view on a 3.5" touchscreen display. As a further highlight, NAVIGON software provides realistic street and signpost display, enabling drivers to find their way smoothly in road traffic. Route planning is child's play with practical special functions such as Dynamic Route Overview, delivering useful travel information such as the next two service stations, parking areas and filling stations, or the Optimum Route calculator to minimize fuel consumption. As an optional extra, the NAVIGON 3100 series also offers as a separate accessory a TMC module which automatically reroutes drivers around traffic jams and other obstacles. The system runs a real-time comparison of updated TMC data with the existing route, and recalculates the route if necessary.

Maps available for 37 European countries
The NAVIGON 3100 is available in region versions for selected countries while the 3110 integrates maps of 37 European countries, enabling drivers to navigate their way around Europe easily and conveniently. At national border crossings the system supplies practical information about the country being entered, such as local speed limits. In addition, over 14,500 fixed speed control points for many European countries are pre-installed. Useful Points of Interest such as restaurants, hotels, car parks, museums and shopping centers can be entered directly.

Ultra-flexible
The new mobile NAVIGON device is so small and light that it fits anywhere, making it not only a perfect in-car navigation system but also - thanks to its integrated rechargeable battery - an ideal alternative to conventional maps, for drivers or even cyclists. A few touches, and the system's information is converted from car mode to cyclist or pedestrian mode.

Availability, Price and Warranty
NAVIGON 3110, priced at 329 euros including VAT (RRP) and NAVIGON 3100 with regional maps at 269 euros are available from April 2007 directly from www.navigon.co.uk and in media stores and electrical goods retailers. NAVIGON's latest models also carry a warranty of two years.

INTERCONTINENTAL HOTELS GROUP TEST DRIVES THEIR NEW PARTNERSHIP WITH NAVIGON

Mon, 04 Dec 2006 00:00:00 CET

InterContinental Hotels Group (IHG) has joined forces with Navigon to launch a pioneering initiative between a hotel group and supplier of satellite navigation systems. The partnership will produce Special Edition InterContinental Hotels Group packs exclusively featuring the hotel brand logos - InterContinental, Crowne Plaza, Holiday Inn and Express by Holiday Inn.

To mark the occasion, three Holiday Inn branded racing cars will be travelling from London to Berlin to test drive the new joint venture. Driving the cars in three different guest styles - family, business and the older generation - they will use the new partnership and stay at the hotels highlighted along the way.

The partnership shows a mutual understanding of the importance that satellite navigation plays within IHG's target markets and how, not only to aid and assist loyal customers, but also target new guests.

Travelling from IHG's head office in the UK, the team's destination will be the InterContinental in Berlin where they will be greeted by the General Managers for Europe, Middle East & Africa at their annual conference.

Satellite navigation systems were the biggest selling electronic gadget last Christmas.

NAVIGON presents Porsche Design Navigation Device

Fri, 01 Sep 2006 00:00:00 CEST

Hamburg/Stuttgart. NAVIGON AG, the Hamburg-based navigation software producer, will be presenting a new portable navigation device developed in collaboration with the Porsche Design Group. It combines a sophisticated, purist design with outstanding functionality, mature technology and high precision.
The P'9611 navigation device is ready for operation in just a few button presses and very easy to use. The large, high-resolution touchscreen display with its finely detailed colour graphics allows the wide range of functions to be controlled with sureness and ease via intuitive menus. The Voice Command System ensures the fast and convenient acoustic input of destinations.
NAVIGON technology delivers groundbreaking functions for the P'9611: The integrated TMC (Traffic Message Channel) function automatically supplies the driver with alternative routes that avoid traffic jams or obstacles in heavy traffic. The lane assistant developed by NAVIGON is presented here for the first time and is particularly useful when the driver encounters complicated junctions. On multilane roads the software displays which lane the driver needs to choose to follow the route with ease. Furthermore, the volume of the navigation messages is automatically adapted to the vehicle's speed, and consequently to the driving noise.

The visual appeal of the P'9611 is based on its timelessly classic design, its high quality of manufacture, its extremely flat construction and the elegant cradle. In addition to having an ultra sensitive GPS receiver, the unit is equipped with a powerful Bluetooth hands free facility. It also has a technically mature dual audio system that is concealed not only in the device itself, but in the cradle as well. The navigation system includes digital maps of 37 countries in Europe. One million of integrated POIs (Points of Interest) provide extensive additional information, indicating for instance where to find a restaurant or a hotel.
The portable P'9611 navigation device will be available at specialist retailers throughout Europe and selected Porsche Design stores starting this winter.

Porsche Design is a global luxury men's brand and is determined by engineered products. Professor Ferdinand Alexander Porsche established the Porsche Design brand in 1972, whose products are attracting consumers with their technical innovation and represent functionality and timelessness in its purest form. Porsche Design products are sold in exclusive own retail and franchise stores, shop-in-shops, up-market department stores and exclusive specialist stores.

Once again in 2006 find the best hotels & restaurants in France with NAVIGON

Tue, 09 May 2006 00:00:00 CEST

Paris, May 9, 2006. NAVIGON, one of Europe's leading providers of GPS navigation systems, and the Guide du Routard, tourist guidebook specialist, today announced that the 2006 version of the additional points of interest listed in the Guide du Routard's "Hotels & Restaurants of France" is now available for NAVIGON's MobileNavigator software.

This partnership was born of a common vision as to how new technologies can be put to use in the tourist sector. By combining a GPS navigation service and the Guide du Routard's list of hotels and restaurants, NAVIGON and the Guide du Routard have decided to continue their partnership in 2006 to ensure that tourists from all over the world make the most of their stay in France. This extended partnership means the addition and integration of 3,500 points of interest (POIs) that are listed in the Guide du Routard's "Hotels & Restaurants of France 2006" covering all metropolitan France, to NAVIGON's software.

Published by Hachette Livre, the Guide du Routard has become a must for all travellers thanks to its practical content which is updated every year. Different editions are available for France, namely the guide to Hotels & Restaurants 2006 which is the result of a rigorous selection of quality estab-lishments.
NAVIGON produces the MobileNavigator software, the principal characteristic of which is its ability to adapt to all types of travel (by car, bicycle or on foot), and nearly all types of equipment (PNA, Smartphone or PDA).

According to Peter Scheufen, NAVIGON's Chief Executive Officer: "This renewed partnership confirms NAVIGON's commitment to providing personalised information that matches user's tastes. We are proud of the fact that the NAVIGON product range is once again offering quality points of interest in matters of tourism."

Well earned renewal

The Guide du Routard has always attached particular importance to reflecting a special lifestyle synonymous with freedom, impertinence and curiosity.
For Philippe Gloaguen who created the famous guide, "The partnership with NAVIGON merges the useful with the agreeable. The Hotel & Restaurant guide aims to provide travellers with pertinent advice about where to stay and eat when on the road in France. In 2005, NAVIGON successfully fulfilled its mission by enabling tourists to find special locations listed in the guide both easily and rapidly. It was therefore perfectly natural for us to renew this partnership!"

On the road again

"The 2005 NAVIGON & Guide du Routard version was highly appreciated by users. As a provider of GPS navigation solutions, we are delighted to see that our partner continues to place its trust in our products. The signposting of tourist locations remains one of NAVIGON's priorities as a means of providing our users with quality service", adds Ingo Becker, Senior Manager of Public Relations at NAVIGON.
As in 2005, the Guide du Routard's points of interest are easily visible on the screen: the software displays these with the same level of priority as gas stations and hospitals, meaning that they are visible even when travelling at high speed, all this without prior programming.

Availability and price

The special Guide du Routard's additional points of interest for NAVIGON's MobileNavigator are already available on CD-Rom or can be downloaded directly from www.navigon.com for €9.95 plus VAT.

NAVIGON presents an innovative product portfolio for business customers

Wed, 01 Mar 2006 00:00:00 CET

NAVIGON AG, the market leader in the field of mobile navigation solutions, has extended its palette of services by adding a new product portfolio for business customers. The product family "NAVIGON Right" contains telematics solutions for all requirements - it is scaleable and constructed modularly. Therefore, the customer is able to configure his/her own packaged solution from a selection of different components.

The core of this product family is the NAVIGON Right DispatcheR. This innovative, web-based logistics platform enables transport and service organisations to display all participating partners in the transportation process on one standard surface. Thus the logistics chain is closed and can be clearly portrayed at any time. Using the central application, the business customer is in the position to manage all mobile units - vehicles, personnel or objects - simply and efficiently. The NAVIGON Right DispatcheR's features include: Messaging functionality, European map material, a multi-lingual approach, tour and assignment management, workflow-controlled user guidance and interfaces to Back Office systems. All functions are completely integrated into the existing infrastructure.
Using the NAVIGON Right OptimiseR, customers have optimal possibilities to arrange their tour and assignment priorities as they want. The product simplifies and standardises complicated procedures. Vehicles can be steered efficiently and tours can be perfectly planed.
The NAVIGON Right PerformeR is a platform-independent application which is able to run on a variety of mobile end appliances. Using a touchscreen, the user can operate a range of functions such as speech and data communication, tour and assignment management, or driving time and rest period supervision. Data is transmitted to controllers via modern communication technology such as GPRS.
The NAVIGON Right NavigatoR combines the complete functionality of a navigation system with fleet management and telematics functions. Tours and assignments are passed on to the Right NavigatoR. The system takes the pressure off staff members, who are automatically guided to their destination by the quickest route.
The NAVIGON Right ManagerR is the branch solution for logistics and service organisations. The range of services for service organisations include time and performance calculation, installation and appliance data, on-site printing, performance targets, deficiency reports and localisation. Special highlights include the option of inserting a digital signature or integrating digital images.
"With NAVIGON Right, we are expanding our product portfolio and adjusting it even more exactly to suit the requirements of our customers. We are going to achieve this particularly as a result of our strategic partnership with Truck24, which will enable us to make use of the synergy effect and to complement our existing know-how", says Peer Alexander Buhl, Director of Corporate Solutions at NAVIGON AG, about the new product range..

NAVIGON and Truck24 form strategic partnership

Mon, 20 Feb 2006 00:00:00 CET

NAVIGON AG, market leader in the field of mobile navigation solutions, and Truck24 AG, supplier of telematics and mobile solutions, have announced a strategic cooperation effective immediately.
The goal of the partnership is to develop and expand a mutually complementary, joint product palette, beginning with fleet management solutions based on the existing service portfolio. As a result, both companies will strengthen their experience and their capability in trans-port & logistics, fleet management, service, telematics and navigation integration. The part-nership is expected to create a future-oriented synergy effect with an orientation towards modern consumer requirements and developments in the market. This will allow the compa-nies to offer a range of different branch solutions; the focus here will be on the joint use of sales and marketing opportunities and on product development. "We are developing made to measure fleet management navigation solutions, which can be attached to or integrated within existing systems," says Peter Scheufen, NAVIGON AG's Chief Executive. "This means a consistent increase in fleet management efficiency for business customers from the transport & logistics, service fleet and field service sectors. The essential functions can be bundled: from planning and management to completion and documentation."
Patrick Wallinger, Chairman of Truck24 AG, continues: "We're delighted that we can contribute our comprehensive knowledge and our years of business experience in the telematics field to this partnership with NAVIGON. Our joint goal is to offer tailor-made solutions for business customers who will provide everything which is required today from integrated so-lutions for navigation and fleet management systems."
This strategic partnership is the conclusion of many years of successful joint project work by the two companies. The first joint integrated solutions were presented at the International Motor Show in 2002.

At the upcoming CeBIT from 9th to 15th March 2006, at the NAVIGON Stand D49 in Hall 11, members of the public will have the opportunity to see a presentation of current joint projects and products, which will be offered in the future as a NAVIGON complete solution.

NAVIGON welcomes General Atlantic as shareholder

Wed, 23 Nov 2005 00:00:00 CET

Hamburg, 23rd November 2005 - NAVIGON, one of Europe's leading suppliers of mobile navigation systems, has strengthened its capital base and corporate power through share participation by General Atlantic. Navigon thereby increases its capital, and General Atlantic, the private equity firm which is globally active in the financing of rapid-growth companies, receives an approximate 25% share in NAVIGON. Peter Scheufen, Chairman of the NAVIGON AG Managing Board, will continue to be the company's principal shareholder.
Product development will be a decisive growth factor for the branch in general and NAVIGON in particular. Success will continue to depend on bringing the best innovations onto the market as rapidly as possible. Additional focus will be placed on international expansion and on developing partnerships with leading brand companies in the electronics sector who will integrate navigation software into their mass market products with increasing regularity.
'With General Atlantic, we have gained an experienced, long-term investor who has recognised our immense growth potential and will support us both in consolidating our position in the market and in realising our goals for international expansion,' Peter Scheufen, NAVIGON AG's CEO, commented.
The mobile navigation market has seen rapid technical developments with products remaining affordable for the majority of consumers. While 700,000 appliances were sold throughout Europe in 2003, 2.6 million navigation systems were sold in the region in 2004. By the end of the third quarter of the current financial year, sales of more than 4.4 million mobile navigation systems were registered; by the end of 2005, therefore, the number of appliances sold will have more than doubled by comparison with the previous year. NAVIGON anticipates that this above average growth in the booming navigation sector will continue and intends to capitalise on its leading position in Germany and Europe.

Dr. Klaus Esser, Managing Director of General Atlantic and future Chairman of the NAVIGON AG Supervisory Board, said: "Mobile navigation is useful for everyone and, thanks to the enormous technical progress driven by NAVIGON and other suppliers, is now also affordable for everyone. Therefore demand is growing very rapidly and NAVIGON's young, innovative team faces the challenge of capitalising on this enormous potential for growth. We look forward to supporting Peter Scheufen and his team in this task, in Europe and throughout the world..."

Available now: MobileNavigator MN| 5

Wed, 01 Jun 2005 00:00:00 CEST

An important advantage of Mobile Navigator MN|5 in comparison to it's successful
predecessor, MN|4, is the choice users can make between an 'Easy' and a 'Professional'
mode. Users of the 'Easy mode' don't need any technical experience to use it, which
results in software that can be described best as remarkably user-friendly. Users with
more technical experience can choose for the 'Professional' mode. This option offers the
full range of functions available with this improved software.

Simplified orientation

Not only the software has become even easier to use, MN|5 also offers features which
makes travelling itself a much more relaxed experience. The new feature 'RoadInfo' for
example, additionally simplifies the orientation through showing the next stages of the
route using real traffic signs in difficult situations like motorway junctions. The information
appears in the form of blue motorway signs with a description of the next route destination.
Information which is not relevant will not be displayed. With this specific feature users can
now sit back and relax in their seat instead of having to press their face against the front
window. With 'RoadInfo' users have time to anticipate and prepare themselves to
whatever lies ahead. A feature which comes in handy especially when being in a country
where you need some extra time to work out the specific signs.

Crossing borders

With the MN|5 users can also literally cross borders. The MN|5 software comes equipped
with map material for all registered European countries, plus the USA and Canada and six
Gulf States (GCC). The map for the respective country in which the system was
purchased can be used immediately. Users can comfortably activate desired additional
maps individually or in a bundle on the internet at www.navigon.com on payment of a fee,
or purchase them in shops pre-installed on memory cards. The MN|5 software is available
with maps for 27 European countries plus North America and GCC in a total of 16
languages.

Safe and sound

Not only navigation becomes easier with MN|5, it also makes a further contribution to
driving safety and comfort: speed limits, if they are recorded in the map material, are
compared with the actual driving speed. If the driver exceeds the speed limit, he is made
aware of this visually and, as an option, acoustically. The Voice Command function, first
introduced by Navigon, enables the straightforward selection of destinations by speech
entry, also while driving. The new 3D view, displays maps quicker and without transfer
breaks.
TMC is still a feature which contributes to driving safety. The TMC function, cost-free for the
user, receives up-to-the-minute traffic bulletins by radio 24 hours a day and, if there is
traffic congestion, automatically and dynamically provides an alternative route suggestion.
To achieve this, the MobileNavigator uses the most up-to-date TMC codes available in the
respective countries. For the first time, TMC 3.0 is also available for use with mobile
telephones. The traffic congestion avoidance function requires a corresponding receiver,
e.g. the NAVIGON TMC module.

Optimal localisation

Now smaller and lighter, the NAVIGON|TriCeiver modular GPS receiver (three functions in
one: GPS plus optional TMC and Bluetooth) with its high sensitivity technology ensures
optimal localisation of the current position even in areas with poor reception. An upgrade
with cable-free Bluetooth is an option.

Availability

The MobileNavigator|5 is offered for sale as a modular system: the options range from the
software alone at a price of 129 Euros through to the extensive complete package with map
material of the Benelux including NAVIGON TriCeiver, TMC and Bluetooth for 399 Euros.
The MobileNavigator|5 is available now and can be purchased in stores or can
be ordered at www.navigon.com.

Main sponsor NAVIGON accompanies desert rally online via live-stagetracking

Tue, 24 May 2005 00:00:00 CEST

(Hamburg/Germany), 24.05.05 - For the first time this year, Germany's most successful
woman racer, Ellen Lohr, heads for the start with her main sponsor, NAVIGON. NAVIGON
now offers an exclusive opportunity to all rally enthusiasts and interested users to follow
the tracks of Ellen Lohr and accompany the rally driver online. At
http://navigon.com/ellenlohr a special tracking system shows the current position of the
rally driver in each stage, with the position data being updated every 30 minutes.
Start and end of the 5-day-rally ORPI Maroc (25th - 29th May) is Agadir at the Morrocan
coast. From the metropolis the route leads down the coast to Oued Chebika and
Laayoune and back to Agadir, where the participants will be be awaited at May 29th 2005
after the rally with a total distance of 2.123 kilometres.
First key data promise an interesting event: all top teams of the FIA Marathonrally World
Cup will be attending. With the starting number 210 Ellen Lohr and co-pilot Holm Schmidt
are fully satisfied: "Given the dusty pistes it can be of advantage to enter the rally already
at the 11th position. Like this the sight hopefully will still be good and at the same time
there are already some tracks to follow." Florian Singer, Director Marketing & PR will also
follow Ellen Lohr´s tracks: "We wish Ellen Lohr and her team a splendid rally start and will
tensely follow the desert rally online."
Current pictures are provided at http://navigon.com/ellenlohr