Garmin launches offline satellite navigation for iPhone

Garmin has significantly overhauled its satellite navigation apps for the iPhone, announcing new versions this week.

Garmin StreetPilot Onboard drops the satellite navigation brand's attachment to cloud-stored maps, which was clear in its earlier attempt at a navigation app, one that required an always-on data collection.

The new apps, released for the US, Canada and the UK, come complete with preloaded maps, meaning they will work when roaming is switched off or in poor signal coverage areas.

Extra features, such as Live Traffic and fuel-price information, are also available, but require a data connection and the purchase of an upgrade package via Apple's in-app purchase mechanism.

It is the first time Garmin StreetPilot, which offers lane guidance, 3D buildings, real-time speed camera information and junction view, has been launched in the UK.

The new app hit the app stores in the US, Canada and the United Kingdom priced at $39.99, $49.99 and £44.99 respectively, allowing the brand to compete with its major rival, TomTom.

TomTom first launched its iPhone app in 2009 and has made repeated upgrades to the software, most recently adding the ability to plan multi-point routes.

The TomTom US and Canada version costs $39.99, while the UK version retails for £49.99.

http://garmin.com/apps