The last time we heard news of TomTom’s arrival on Android, it was simply described as releasing “fairly soon.” Well, today the news is a little clearer. TomTom will be previewing their long awaited Android version today at IFA which will hit the Play Store in October. It’ll be interesting to see how this pans out since Google’s prepackaged navigation is both very familiar and functional to most Android users – as well as the small fact that it’s free. There are no specifics as far as pricing for the TomTom application, however with an October release, we will most likely find out more today from their official preview.

We are all used to the Google Maps application, however the features below make TomTom sound like a nice little package. I think we’ll need to see how the features work in the real world, as well as the price of the application before passing any further judgement though.

World-class navigation – The latest, most accurate TomTom maps available – with no need for a mobile signal or data plan.

Lifetime maps – Free updates that ensure access to the latest maps and fastest routes.

IQ Routes – Arrival times that drivers can rely on – at all times of day.

Advanced lane guidance – Gives drivers extra clarity when navigating difficult junctions.

Spoken street names – Makes turnings even clearer.

2D / 3D driving view – The clearest display for the safest driving.

TomTom HD Traffic – Available as an in-app purchase. It’s the quickest way through traffic. Proven.

TomTom Speed Cameras – Available as an in-app purchase. Save money and drive safely with real-time mobile and fixed camera alerts.

“We aim to make TomTom content and services available to as many devices and platforms as we can,” says Corinne Vigreux, Managing Director at TomTom. “Bringing TomTom navigation to Android smartphones is, therefore, a significant milestone for us.”

What do you think? Will you give it a shot when it’s released? We will of course provide more details as we get them.

source: Business Wire