Sygic Mobile Maps U.S. GPS navigation app: First Look

Quick-evolving software is a compelling choice amid brand-name competitors

Consistently, we have seen navigation applications for iPhones running OS 3.0 or later resemble dedicated portable navigation devices, often replicating existing PND models. The Sygic Mobile Maps is no exception, as it has a similar interface to that of the Archos GPS Bundle device.

We tested Sygic Mobile Maps U.S., though there is a version available that includes Canada and Mexico, and applications for other parts of the world. The maps are sourced from Tele Atlas.

Sygic Mobile Maps U.S. uses a one-time download fee for the software, maps, and points of interest data. (The alternative to a single-price purchase for a navigation app is a fee-based service offered by other companies that would provide maps and data as needed and require a monthly charge. Such programs require cellular of Wi-Fi service to provide guidance.)

We paid $59.99 for version 7.71.1, which included a map database covering the entire United States. It uses 1.43 gigs of memory.

Key features include:

• 28 languages
• Lane assistance
• Landscape and portrait view
• Multi destination with route optimization

Initial impressions

Sygic Mobile Maps has an intuitive interface with crisp and vivid graphics on the map and menu screens. The application provides the common features expected on a portable navigator, a vivid map display, good verbal routing instructions, and an intuitive interface. It also includes several features we particularly appreciate, such as lane assistance, multi-destination routing, speed-limit icons, coordinate entry, and automatic day/night display modes. It bundles a few extras too, such as a unit converter, calculator, world clock, and basic country information. The Sygic software includes 28 languages—far more than most PNDs and competing navigation apps can claim.

Our criticisms center largely on iPhone limitations, integration, and a few missing features that Sygic has announced for future updates. As we have experienced with other iPhone GPS applications, the touch screen buttons can be small for adult fingers, voice volume and quality are poor, and battery life limited. Additional hardware must be purchased (mount and charger) to effectively use in a car, adding to the overall cost. But Sygic has a price edge over some competitors.

The version we tested did not include the helpful text-to-speech feature that speaks street names rather than gives guidance as "turn left" or "turn right." This is now included with version 7.71.4. In our tests, we noted the inability to avoid major highways, exclude roads on route, and repeat last voice command. We also missed reality view, a feature we have grown accustomed to on many new devices and apps that clearly represent major junctions, complete with signage.

As with most initial GPS apps for the iPhone, we found integration to be lacking on our version. For example, a user can play music, but there is no ability to access the iTunes library for track selection. Also, there is no playback control to play, pause, fast forward, or rewind, and the music volume is not reduced when navigation instructions are given. There is also no ability to enter a destination from the address book, and after a phone call the user must tap the license agreement before returning to the active route. Again, several of these elements are claimed to be addressed in recent and future updates available free to current users.

As with other iPhone applications we have tested, the Sygic accuracy is limited and decidedly lacking in comparison to dedicated, portable devices. We experienced the software indicating the current position on an adjacent road, rather than the one being traveled. This can be confusing at a glance, muddle directions, and lead to ongoing recalculations.

CR's take

Sygic Mobile Maps U.S. is another worthy turn-by-turn GPS solution available for the iPhone. It has a pleasing design and layout, a competitive price, and some useful included features. But it has areas to improve, and it is clear that Sygic is making ongoing updates.

While the brand may not be a household name, its early iPhone GPS app efforts show promise. Sygic Mobile Maps is a compelling choice for iPhone users seeking PND functionality in their mobile phone. For those motorists seeking the best navigation tool, regardless of platform, traditional PNDs simply work better. While a dedicated device is priced higher than most apps, it includes a mount and charger, plus it has the ability to be easily shared among family and friends.

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