Apple has introduced a SDK for the iPhone. So everyone should have the possibility to create own applications for the iPhone. Based on this information it should be obvious that a lot of companies will try to port their navigation solutions to the iPhone. The preconditions are very good because of the large screen and the touch interface it reasonable to implement a navigation software. There is also a build in GPS in the iPhone 3G. Apple provides only a Google Maps application where the user can visualize the own location.
But why is there no Navigation software?
Apple restricts the use of GPS data via the SDK. Hence, Location Based Services (LBSs) and Navigation software cannot (or only hardly) be buid by third party companies. In my opinion Apple wants to create their own navigation solution and prevent competing companies. Big companies like TomTom have announced navigation software for the iPhone (some sources clam that the software is ready to roll), but until now we have to use the Google Maps application. Another reason could be a contract (or licences issues) with Google and that Apple and Google want to built an exclusive application for navigation.
We will see who will bring real navigation to the iPhone and how it will look like.
Written and submitted from Home, using my 802.11g WiFi network.



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