Globally there’s only really one name when it comes to quality in-car GPS navigation, and that’s Garmin. This American company has been leading the way for sat nav technology for years now so it comes as some surprise that it has taken them a little bit longer than most to enter the iPhone app market. Finally though, their very own Garmin iPhone app has been released, and it certainly appears to deliver on both functionality and price.
If you are already familiar with how the Garmin Nuvi range of GPS products work then it should not take you too long to become accustomed on how to use their iPhone app. The buttons are clear and large and once in navigation drive mode it’s very easy to select your destination or even change it whilst driving along your route.
Garmin StreetPilot iPhone App Review
When compiling this Garmin StreetPilot iPhone App Review there were a number of items that needed to be looked at in more depth. They included how the iPhone would behave when trying to run two applications at one. For example, if you are using the iPhone as a music player in your car, and needing to use the Garmin StreetPilot app then rest assured this will not be a problem.
Essentially all that happens is that the music volume will fade down, and the Garmin voice directions will then come into play seamlessly. Once you’ve heard the direction telling you where to turn, then the music will rise back up smoothly letting you carry on with your drive whilst listening to your favorite tunes.
Traffic Alerts with Garmin StreetPilot
Another aspect worth noting is the Garmin GPS app and how it integrates traffic warnings. Thankfully there are no hidden charges with the StreetPilot iPhone app and if you buy it you will be able to take advantage of free traffic jam warnings – and the iPhone will then suggest a different route taking you away from all the other stacked up cars and vehicles.
This is a different approach to how rival iPhone apps work. For example, if you read any of the many online TomTom iPhone App Reviews you will be aware that TomTom actually charge an additional $40 US Dollar fee for traffic alerts. You will get this for nothing with the Garmin StreetPilot app and when you consider both apps cost the same from iTunes – around $49 Dollars – then the Garmin one certainly seems to win out in terms of cost effectiveness.
A Value for Money iPhone GPS App
Will the Garmin StreetPilot app completely replace your need for a standard and more expensive GPS solution though? That’s debatable because you will find a couple of glitches with the software – for example if in a poor reception area you could be waiting a while for a satellite or GPS signal. This would not be ideal for people who depend on navigation for their living – for example cab and truck delivery drivers.
To summarise, if you are looking for a cheap GPS solution on your iPhone then you can’t really go far wrong with the all new Garmin StreetPilot iPhone app. It’s cheap, works well, and adds an extra dimension to your iPhone that could be invaluable especially in the vacation period when people tend to do a lot of driving to see relations in other areas of the country.