Is satnav losing its way?

TomTom’s new software offers nothing new, says linton chiswick

Think of what follows as the 'useful-useless innovation curve'. Mobile phones, for instance, solve the need for urgent business communication on the go. Next, they become smaller and more powerful, storing contact details, telling the time and downloading emails. Then, innovation crests the useful-useless curve a moment before the first comedy ring tone is downloaded. From this point on, it's mostly downhill... fancy fascias and mobile advertising.

TomTom are innovators in the field of satellite navigation. Their slogan - 'Find your way the easy

way' - neatly defines their own route up the useful curve. A satnav allows the driver to find virtually any location without resorting to boot-loads of maps, and - by adding voice guidance as well - it even helps keep the driver's eyes (and car) on the road. The device's basic usefulness was marginally

improved with Bluetooth functionality (connecting your mobile phone to make hands-free calls) and traffic and speed camera information. But has TomTom just discovered the peak of its own useful-useless curve?

The latest version of its