iPhone GPS navigation buying advice

How to choose the best app for your driving needs

The GPS navigation market is continuously changing with constant improvements and new ways to provide navigation solutions for customers. It used to be that for a driver to have navigational aid on the go, it would be necessary to purchase a pricey in-car factory system or a dedicated portable navigation device (PND). Today, the solution can be as simple as downloading an app to your smart phone in minutes. Progress has brought great conveniences, but there are still decisions to be weighed in choosing the right application.

The reality of cell-phone navigation

Cell-phone navigation has been available for a few years from carriers such as AT&T and Verizon that offer subscription-based services (i.e., Telenav and VZNavigator) for most cell phones on their network. These services are "server based"—meaning they download maps and points of interest data as needed, rather than storing a large database on the device. The cost is typically around $3 a day, $10 per month, or bundled into an often large, all-encompassing plan. Such GPS solutions are useful tools for basic turn-by-turn directions, but they fall short of dedicated PNDs due to the subscription cost, smaller keypads and screens, poor volume, limited battery life, no included hardware (charger and mount), and no preloaded map database.

Today, many smart phones are a more viable alternative to PNDs, as models have become available with larger screens and expanded memory allows them to better mimic a dedicated device. Since Apple updated the iPhone with OS 3.0, the popular convergence device has become a popular substitute for a regular PND.

iPhone as a navigator

The iPhone has proven to be a good navigation platform, with its large screen, powerful processor, and cellular and Wi-Fi connectivity. The simple iTunes application store and intuitive interface make downloading and using navigation apps very appealing. But the iPhone does have its limitations.

The iPhone suffers from some typical cell-phone navigation drawbacks. For example, although the iPhone's screen is relatively large for a phone, it is smaller than many PNDs' screens. And as we've found in other phones used for navigation, battery life, volume, and included hardware all fall short in comparison to PNDs. Plus some monthly plans are based on download amounts, rather than simple unlimited plans.

When comparing iPhone applications to PNDs in our testing, we find that the iPhone does not match the accuracy found in even basic dedicated devices. This has been consistent over the several apps we have tested.

To address some of the iPhone's inherent limitations, Magellan and TomTom and some third-party manufacturers offer special car kits. These kits increase GPS sensitivity with a built-in antenna and receiver, and they provide a secure mount with power cord and charging capability. When equipped with such a kit, the iPhone provides accuracy and performance on par with a PND. But the car kit alone can cost as much as a portable navigation device, typically around $100.

How to choose the best iPhone navigation app

The key to iPhone navigation is choosing the right application. Look for software that is easy to use and has the features you want, with our reviews and iTunes user reviews as guides. Also consider pricing plans, iPhone integration, and method of data delivery. Below is an overview of key pricing and performance considerations when choosing an iPhone navigation application.

Pricing

Most GPS apps for the iPhone require a one-time fee with no subscription. Normally, this includes a preloaded database of maps and Points of Interest. In addition to sparing you ongoing monthly fees, another advantage to a traditional app download is that no cellular or Wi-Fi connection is required to navigate. But a drawback is that maps and POIs can become outdated and require the purchase of periodic updates from the manufacturer. Often minor upgrades are free and frequent, but over time, major new versions and data updates may require an additional fee.

Typically, the larger manufacturers, such as Magellan, Navigon, and TomTom, use the preloaded database method. The alternative is to offer a subscription-based service. Prices vary, but more important is that this form uses a server-based approach, which means that you need a cellular connection for navigation to work. Maps and POIs are downloaded as needed. The upside is potential access to more current data. When choosing a server-based application, a user should be aware of the pricing method. Some applications will require the user to cancel the recurring monthly fee, while others will expire and not continue to automatically charge the subscriber.

Performance

We test iPhone navigation apps much the same way we test standalone PNDs. The better apps from portable GPS device manufacturers such as Magellan, Navigon, and TomTom mimic the look and performance of their dedicated units. But whatever app you choose, here are some factors that we look at in testing and that you should consider when shopping.

Entering destination/POI

This is how logical and easy it is to enter an address or point of interest. Our assessment includes whether the database allows dynamic searching for addresses, if letters are grayed out, ease of entering into navigation menus on startup, and ease of finding points of interest.

Info for driver

The amount of information given to the driver and the way it is presented is critical. We look at on-screen and audible information given to the user during navigation. Our review factors type and font size of on-screen information, ability to speak proper street names, languages supported, and amount of audible information given, including descriptions of the next maneuver.

Routing options

This takes into consideration the number of options for fine-tuning the route plotted by the system. We note multi-destination routing, avoidance of toll roads, biking routes, walking routes, and RV/truck use.

Use of controls

How easy the system is to use is another area of critical concern. We look at the size of on-screen icons, and ease of adjusting common functions such as volume, brightness, and map zoom setting.

Traffic interface

Rates the presentation of the traffic information and the ability to put the data to use. Rating factors include color coding for traffic severity, depth of information, estimated time of delay, and tools for rerouting around congestion. But we do not rate the accuracy or timeliness of the traffic information itself.

Integration

The iPhone is a very capable device. We like to see music playing abilities packaged with iPhone navigation applications. The more functionality the better, meaning control over the music library, and skip and repeat features are desired. Aside from music, the ability to route to stored contacts, landscape and portrait display, and phone-call integration are all part of making a GPS application on the iPhone a pleasant, integrated experience.

Bottom line

iPhone applications vary greatly in ease of use, features, integration, and general quality. A key challenge for consumers and reviewers is that the apps and even pricing change rapidly over time. In our application reviews, we have detailed our experiences and criticisms of specific versions. We recommend pursuing the apps that sound like the best fit for your needs and budget, checking to see what has been included in the latest update.

The simple advice is to choose an app from a name-brand company such as Magellan, Navigon, and TomTom. These are large companies with many years of experience in developing navigation products and software, and they have the resources to provide ongoing development and support. That said, some of the lesser-known app providers such as CoPilot Live and MotionX have compelling, lower-cost options. Further, we expect innovation over time to emerge from the newer players in this market.