MapmyIndia has announced the launch ‘MapmyIndia Sygic Mobile Maps’ to convert GPS-enabled mobile phones into GPS navigators. An app made in association with Europe based Sygic, it will help users access information on the go through their mobile phones and MapmyIndia’s data. The good part is that the app won’t require GPRS or a network to operate in, so no phone bills for usage nor do you run the risk of losing out because of no network.
However, that doesn’t mean the application is free. You need to purchase the app for INR 2,490 from MapmyIndia’s web shop, or if you are using an iPhone you can buy it from their appstore for $79.99. The app works on almost all categories of phones including Symbian, Windows and Android run phones. The above prices are however one time, and there are no additional charges for usage beyond the initial purchase.
Some features:
- At the risk of making it sound like a Press Release, I go ahead with some features of the app:
- Besides an intuitive design the app also offers voice based guidance
- The app provides street level directions in 400+ cities across India
- A million points of interest (POIs)* are loaded with the app to help you find anything from restaurants to airports, the interesting feature is that most of these also have a direct telephone number to dial and call
- The app itself is easy to install and can be loaded directly to the memory card or phone memory to use
A list of phones that are compatible with the app can be found on this page and to buy it you need to head here.
Some questions:
I personally found the price to be on the steeper side, and given that my current phone isn’t supported I don’t see myself using it anyway. However, even for users who can and would be eager to use the service I find the price a nagging factor. Then again, it is a considerably cheaper option than buying a map device itself for enthusiastic users. However, for occasional travellers like me, it would still be easier to spend on mobile bills and data connections compared to a one time pay of an app that I’m not sure how often I would use.
Also, I am not sure if the app can be synced with mobile internet in anyway. I think it would be a great asset if I can sync the use with web browsing and thus add my views, ratings or any other form of self expression using the application. It would also be a good add on for MapmyIndia to leverage some virality that might happen thus. Also, I couldn’t find information on how the information will be updated, like say a new restaurant or hotel in a place. Considering the app is not net driven how will the information be kept up to date?
What’s your take, especially those who use MapmyIndia and similar services more actively?
How big is the app if it loads all the maps and POI at once? A GB or two?? is it fast?
Thanks for bringing this up! The application is more than typical map applications on phones – it really converts your phone into a full-fledged voice navigation system – guiding you with voice and map instructions, live, turn-by-turn to your destination.
Similar apps for iPhone in US can cost upto USD99. Unless you are on an unlimited data plan – data-intensive apps like Google Maps and other can bring up your bill to Rs 1000 per month.
There is something to be said about not being dependent on GPRS/Cellular Network to find your way – because you may end up wanting route guidance in places where you may not have cellular coverage.
Good questions you pose – and we hope different users will find different solutions – some on their mobile phones, some in their cars!