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Google Maps Alternative Gets Major New Feature on Android and Android Auto

TomTom is a navigation expert that needs no introduction, as its software is currently used in millions of cars out there.
TomTom GO Navigation on Android Auto 6 photos
Photo: TomTom
TomTom GO ExpertTomTom GO ExpertTomTom GO ExpertTomTom GO ExpertTomTom GO Expert
Considered one of the best alternatives to the likes of Google Maps and Waze, TomTom’s GO Navigation is a product that’s constantly evolving, regularly getting new capabilities on the supported platforms.

And the most recent update brings a feature that many Google Maps users have been requesting for a very, very long time.

TomTom has announced that GO Navigation now comes with a truck plan whose role is to provide navigation guidance for larger vehicles. In other words, truck drivers can now safely navigate on public roads, as the application takes into account the vehicle dimensions, the fuel requirements, the maximum speeds, and the cargo.

With a user interface that’s specifically optimized for trucks, the new mode also supports Android Auto, therefore being able to run on the head units inside vehicles.

Needless to say, truck navigation is a major update.

While some truck drivers are tempted to use Google Maps to find the desired destination, this is actually a very big no-no. And it all comes down to the routes that Google Maps offers in the first place.

Because the app doesn’t take into account the vehicle dimensions, it looks for roads where a regular passenger car can fit. This means there’s a very good chance that a large vehicle, such as a lorry, could end up getting stuck on narrow roads if the driver follows the Google Maps guidance, simply because the route isn’t suitable for a truck.

In the case of TomTom GO Navigation, the truck plan is available for a fee as part of the company’s premium offering. The car and truck modes can be toggled within the app, and for the time being, the new feature is exclusive to Android users, with no information regarding a potential release on iOS and CarPlay.
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About the author: Bogdan Popa
Bogdan Popa profile photo

Bogdan keeps an eye on how technology is taking over the car world. His long-term goals are buying an 18-wheeler because he needs more space for his kid’s toys, and convincing Google and Apple that Android Auto and CarPlay deserve at least as much attention as their phones.
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