TomTom announces iPhone Portable GPS Tracking Device Application

Sure, iPhone 3G is going to offer some solid GPS functionality right out of the box. Apple's updated iPhone site shows off some of the new features—most notably turn-by-turn directions—but TomTom is officially coming to the rescue of users who need a little more from their GPS.

Reuters reports that Dutch-based TomTom is just about ready with an iPhone version of its software that it plans to sell through the iTunes App Store. A price hasn't been set yet, and the company was remarkably low on details, but one can imagine that TomTom can bring some GPS functionality to the table that goes beyond the iPhone 3G's default abilities.

One of the most likely advantages of TomTom's software could be a local database of maps that users can access and customize even if they don't have an internet connection (3G/EDGE, Wi-Fi, or otherwise). TomTom can also bring its own custom array of features and services, including real-time traffic reports (that go beyond the ambiguous red/yellow/green color overlays in Google Maps) and instant messaging for a lifeline while traveling. TomTom's software for other GPS devices can also do things like warn you if you're speeding; perhaps the iPhone could too.

TomTom wasn't specific about when its iPhone client will be ready, but it will be sold for an as-yet undetermined price.

Use your iPhone as a Portable GPS Tracking Device Navigator

Just a few months ago we were fantasizing about an iPOD with GPS functionality, or even an iPhone with GPS. Well, the wait is over, and iPhone is now a reality! It will be available in June - but we know some of you Navigadget readers are already making plans to use your iPhone as a GPS navigator.

If you read the specs of the new iPhone you must have realized there’s no integrated GPS chip on-board. Yes there’s Google Maps (as pictured above) which could help you figure out where you are but you’ll need to be connected to the internet for that to work. And we all know Starbucks Wi-Fi hardly makes it to the parking lot.

But no worries - iPhone does have bluetooth connectivity. So, you can get yourself a bluetooth GPS receiver, pair it with your iPhone, and you are set for the hardware part of things.

Of course you’ll need some software that can talk to the bluetooth GPS receiver. Then the software will be able to show your location on a map and give you directions. We have this feeling that Apple will release some sort of GPS navigation software until June that will work with your iPhone.

But let’s assume that’s not the case and see what options we have:

RouteBuddy - Can utilize Google Maps however the price does not include maps and even if you do get the maps you won’t have enough space for it since the maps for North America takes 12GB after it is expanded. Not to mention it doesnt give you directions. It is just a mapping software.

MAC GPS Pro - Also does not include maps. Doesn’t look like it can do navigation guidance either.

Garmin Mobile 10 - This is a bluetooth GPS receiver that comes with maps. However no support for Macs.

TomTom - Really cool software however no support for Macs.

So those are your software options. We’re not really Mac people here at Navigadget - so we maybe missing a few. Let’s all hope Apple releases a bundle (bluetooth GPS receiver + software) for a good price that works with iPhone. Go ahead and write a comment and let us know your thoughts.