Garmin is using Macworld to introduce new social search and check-in capabilities for its StreetPilot onDemand navigation app, as well as a new function for the Tracker app that allows users to share links to a live tracking map. Dan Bartel of the company said the new features help users to stay connected and share location-based information with their friends and families. Navigon introduced StreetPilot; Garmin acquired the German navigation provider in 2011.

The new social media capabilities for StreetPilot onDemand integrate Wikipedia, Facebook and foursquare. Users can display locations from these networks on the map and check in upon arrival at their destination. Clicking on one of the Wikipedia icons on the map will reveal detailed information about a location, such as the identity of an interesting building or landmark. Also new for the are visually refined 3D renderings of buildings to provide a better overview.

Garmin’s Tracker app works in conjunction with the GTU 10 tracking device to display its location on a map “to virtually follow anything from your loved-ones to valuables or the family dog. Users can set up a geo-fence to get alerts when the device crosses in or out of a defined area. The latest version of this app now also allows a continuous tracking mode, and enables users to send out map links to others.”

Business travelers are often finding a client location — a meet spot, or an office — while on the roads. A new product here makes that a job for an iPhone of any sort, using the built-in GPS of the device. Navigon AG has launched a design-focused car kit for the iPhone at Macworld. The Navigon Car Kit consists of an iPhone mounting device and designer suction pad holder, plus an Apple-certified connection cord and a car charger, which powers the iPhone while on the road.

“The iPhone is the most elegant smartphone available, therefore a mount should never get in the way of showcasing the design,” said Gerhard Mayr, VP of worldwide mobile phones & new markets. The mount is designed to fix to the windshield to reduce driver distraction and position the iPhone for optimal GPS signal. Directions, whether they’re just Maps or a GPS app, drive down the battery in a hurry, so the included car charger and the five foot connection cable make sure the iPhone battery doesn’t drain. The kit is now available for the iPhone 3G/S and 4, and sells for $49.99 with free shipping — with an introductory price of $44.99 until Feb 3, from www.bringmobi.com.

The company says Navigon MobileNavigator is the first universal navigation app from a major GPS company (it’s been in business since 1991) that runs natively on the iPhone and the iPad. Users with MobileNavigator installed can use the app on both devices without extra charges. It utilizes the iPad’s large display and user interface with a higher resolution, and new menus. Route planning shows a scrollable, multi-touch map to select destinations in simple taps. Users can plan routes at home on the iPad and then send them to their iPhone for navigation on the go.

Navigon is located at booth 943 At Macworld Expo, where there’s free stuff in a contest. The company will give away 30 licenses for the award winning MobileNavigator app via a Twitter wall. Include a defined hashtag (#) (revealed at the booth) in a tweet. Winners are announced each day at 4pm on Twitter. Read the rest of this entry »