New Pocket PC navigation software available for travelers - Mapopolis Navigator

EDP Weekly's IT Monitor, Oct 21, 2002

The new Pocket PC navigation software tells you how to get where you're going and when to turn. The software generates directions from your current position to your destination. It provides audio and visual alerts before each turn and instantaneously reroutes you if you miss a turn.

Mapopolis Navigator, for Windows Powered Pocket PC devices, has been introduced by Mapopolis.Com and is available at www.mapopolis.com. ($89.95)

"The real benefit of this software is that it's a completely portable solution," said Mapopolis.Com, Inc. Vice President, Jeremy Straub. "Unlike a car-mounted system, you can use your PDA at the office to manage your contacts, maintain a database or play a game. When you need to drive somewhere, you bring the device to your car."

Using the software for in-car navigation is as simple as connecting a Global Positioning System (GPS) device to your Pocket PC and telling the software where you want to go. Navigator connects with Mapopolis PlaceGuides which provide business locations that can be used as start or end points. You can also choose a street address or Pocket Outlook contact as a start or end point.

"Microsoft envisions the Pocket PC to be completely functional for people `on the move'- whether in the office, on the road or at the market," said Ed Suwanjindar, product manager for the Mobile Devices Division at Microsoft Corp. "Navigator from Mapopolis.Com provides users with the necessary features to be fully mobile, en route to any location."

Navigator is the third generation of software from Mapopolis.Com, Inc. which started in 1999 with the release of Mapopolis for the PalmOS which only supported locating streets and intersections. The company has expanded to offer a full line of products which provide dynamic navigation rivaling expensive in-car systems.

Navigator incorporates data from Navigation Technologies, the same data provider that is used by all US in-car systems. It includes coverage for the entire US and major Canadian cities.[sections]