Test drive: TomTom iPhone GPS navigation app

With the launch of the iPhone OS 3.0, there have been a wave of GPS-enabled navigation applications offered through the iTunes store for the iPhone 3G and 3G S. TomTom is the latest major player to launch its own app, joining Navigon in bringing its years of portable navigation device experience to Apple's white-hot cell phone. We have tested the AT&T Navigator, Navigon Mobile Navigator, XRoad G-Map, and now, the TomTom U.S. and Canada application.
 
The name is somewhat a misnomer, as version 1.0 includes a map database covering the entire United States, Canada, and Puerto Rico. Being an application, rather than a subscription-based monthly service, map data is preloaded and a user does not need cell coverage for navigation.
 
The TomTom app carries a high price: $99.99. That price point is on par with basic traditional navigators, once you factor in a mount and car charger. And as we found out, it offers less for the money.
 
Like the competing apps, the TomTom software was run through our iPhone-specific test protocol that combines laboratory and real-world driving evaluations. What we found is a solid navigation aid that integrates well with the iPhone, though it has numerous shortcomings in contrast with a standard, portable unit.
 
The app looks and feels similar to TomTom devices, yet boasts more vivid colors and crisper graphics. It works in both portrait and landscape modes.
 
The software includes historic traffic data, enabling smart route guidance that accounts for typical traffic patterns. However, it lacks many other convenient features now found even on basic navigators, such as spoken street names, reality view, lane assistance, and multi-destination routing.
 
Bottom line
The TomTom app provides good, useful guidance, but it falls short of the company's own entry-level portable navigation devices. There are less-expensive apps that can get you from Point A to Point B, though a traditional navigator may be the better choice for frequent use.

See our reviews of AT&T Navigator, iGo My Way, Gokivo, Navigon Mobile Navigator, Sygic Mobile Maps, TomTom iPhone application, and X Road G-Map for iPhone.

For more information on portable automotive GPS navigation systems, see our Ratings, first looks, and buying advice and watch our video guide. Discuss GPS devices in the forums.

— Jeff Bartlett and Frank Spinelli