19 January 2007

Google mobile: killing the satellite navigation star?

If you drive a car and travel around the country extensively, it's more than likely that you have, or have considered purchasing, a satellite navigation system. These allow you to simply type in the postcode or address of your destination to retrieve a guide to your final stop.

However, it has recently become clearer that satellite navigation systems could be under threat from the comprehensive services offered by Google mobile - which are free. Indeed, the capabilities of the ever-expanding and developing Google Mobile can be an excellent alternative to some expensive satellite navigation systems.

A satellite navigation system's primary function is to take you from A to B by means of the most efficient and least time consuming route. So, if you have a business meeting with a client in a location with which you are unfamiliar, there are now two options available to you. You can either:

• use the facilities provided by a sat nav system or
• use your mobile phone to connect to mobile.google.com via WAP, and then search Google Maps for your destination.

The second option will provide you with exactly the same information as the first. Google maps will show you an interactive map of your destination right on your mobile, through which you can easily zoom in and out to orientate yourself visually.

It also offers step-by-step directions to your desired location, whether you're walking, in the train, bus or driving a car. And if you're located in one of the 30 major metropolitan areas in the USA, you can receive real-time traffic information. This will help you estimate where the delays are so you can easily alter your route.

Additionally, Google has introduced a social search feature into Google Mobile - so you can even search for particular cinemas, pizza restaurants or even the nearest petrol station.

While all the features listed above are similarly included in satellite navigation systems, using mobile phones for the same purposes offers a much cheaper option. However, it's important to remember that in the UK, using mobile phones when driving is illegal; it's only safe to access such services while safely stationary in your vehicle, or with a special hands free kit.

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