TomTom Navigation Feature Set Comes To Sony Xplod Head Unit Line

Finally, a partnership that works. And a partnership that really gets at the core of what has been bothering drivers for years now. By and large, factory GPS/navigation systems are subpar. Automakers charge a bundle for them, and while they look nicely integrated, the feature set is generally lacking even compared to $100 standalone GPS systems from TomTom or Garmin.

But now, Sony is realizing that people want legitimate navigation systems, and if you're looking to upgrade your vehicle's head unit, the new Xplod line isn't a bad place to look. A new partnership between Sony and TomTom has led to integration of TomTom's navigational services into Sony's Xplod head unit line. In other words, you get Sony's expertise in audio along with TomTom's expertise in navigation. It's a great combination, no matter how you slice it.

LCD-based head units from Sony will be equipped with TomTom's full suite of NAV features: LIVE traffic HD Traffic Google business searchers, live weather updates, IQ Routes etc. Though, this will initially only available in France, Germany, The Netherlands, Spain, Italy, Portugal and the United Kingdom, but we're hoping that it comes to other countries and regions shortly. And if any automakers would like to actually install these in cars from day one, well, even better.

 TomTom to provide navigation technology for Sony’s Xplod range of in-car audio visual navigation systems
IFA 2010

BERLIN--(BUSINESS WIRE)--TomTom and Sony revealed today a collaboration that will bring TomTom’s expertise in the field of navigation and services technology to Sony’s new Xplod AV Navigation Systems. This device comes fully connected* providing unprecedented live knowledge of the road ahead.

    “We are delighted that Sony has selected TomTom as their navigation services supplier in Europe”

“We are delighted that Sony has selected TomTom as their navigation services supplier in Europe”, says Giles Shrimpton, Managing Director, TomTom Automotive. “This endorses our position as the leading location and navigation solutions provider. Combining the audio and video know-how of Sony with our navigational expertise has resulted in an excellent product range. Moreover, as the technology incorporates a flexible hardware design based on standard interfaces, it allows for easy updates in the future – a huge advantage in the automotive industry.”

The LIVE services include award winning HD Traffic™ built to get drivers through traffic quicker than any other traffic service. Drivers can stay ahead with up-to-date speed camera information on both fixed and mobile cameras en route, as well as live weather updates and local Google™ business address searches.

Along with these LIVE services drivers also get access to IQ Routes™ and Map Share™. Only TomTom uses actual speed data collected from millions of users to accurately calculate the travel time of any given route. It allows for rush hour, traffic lights, and even shopping crowds when calculating journey times. So no matter what time it is, IQ Routes can be relied upon to give an accurate arrival time.

Combined, these services provide drivers with the latest information on the road ahead, ensuring a stress-free, enjoyable drive.

*initially only available in France, Germany, The Netherlands, Spain, Italy, Portugal and the United Kingdom