You are already quite well acquainted with the criteria for choosing a navigator and a map for it. Therefore, we can now take a closer look at the most famous navigation programs, as well as find out their features.

Shturmann

In the Russian market, this company has long been in demand and firmly holds the leading position in navigation. Recently, navigation programming has been carried out directly from the hands of the developers of this company themselves. Previously, Shturmann complemented its mobile devices with the development of Navitel or Avtosputnik. Now progress is evident. Many specialists of the company worked on the creation of this navigation program. Artemy Lebedev's studio was engaged in the development of design, software menu logic and intuitive interface.
The Yandex traffic jam service informs the user about the presence of traffic jams. It is with the help of Yandex traffic jams that the driver can plot his route based on the traffic congestion, this is provided by the service in real time. The NAVTEQ company provides the navigator with a cartographic base.

About 2,000,000 km of Russian roads are supported by the navigator software. The program also contains a POI database of more than 100,000 objects. Terrain orientation is provided by the function of displaying the outlines of houses. For those who are not too lazy to register and create Personal Area there is a novelty on the my.shturmann.com site - the Friends service. It displays the location of friends and, accordingly, shows the route to them.

Google maps

The advantage and plus of this program is that it is installed in many smartphones by default and does not require a GPS module. The program can work with both cellular navigation and a special navigation chip. It is worth adding to this that the program is free, but in order for it to work, you need access to the Internet, since the Google Maps cartographic database is located on remote server networks. Each section of the road must be downloaded from this server. For unlimited Internet this is not a problem, especially since there is also no need to use the smartphone's memory. Unlike Shturmann, Google Maps has no way to find out about the presence of traffic jams and make the necessary route, since the program has “ manual control". But you will not have any problems with remote and "forgotten by God and people" sections of the road, because Google Maps has all the satellite images of any area of ​​our planet.

Nokia Maps

The application was developed only for smartphones and phones from Nokia. On other devices, it will not start. The program is presented in two versions. The first is pedestrian, the second is automobile. They can be downloaded from the Nokia website. After the purchase is paid, you will have access to route guidance functions, as well as voice prompts. That is, it will be possible to use all the options without restrictions.

Most phones only support English prompts. V normal mode the application will download maps as needed in parts. But there is an opportunity to download the entire database of maps. Regarding navigation, it is beautiful, but not very convenient. In particular, this applies to the car version, since, firstly, the phone screens are not large enough, and secondly, the accuracy of maps for Russia is weak. On a small screen, it is quite difficult to look at the elements of the map and control the application.

The pedestrian version is much better, there are no comments on it. The pedestrian leads well and correctly. She even sometimes gives information instead of a guide. Instructions for installing the program, downloading maps and using it can be found on the Internet.

Autosatellite

The Avtosputnik program is one of the most popular programs in Russia. It is distinguished by a friendly interface, excellent detailing of the map of Moscow and the Moscow region, as well as the ability to work on different platforms.

The program can work both on navigators and on smartphones based on Windows Mobile OS version 5.0 and higher. The database of maps used in this program is supplied by TeleAtlas. Therefore, large cities and environs of the European part of the country are very well detailed. But with the settlements located beyond the Urals, the situation is worse. In addition to its own navigation, the program opens access to other on-line services called Avtosputnik On-Line. Here you can transfer music files over the Internet, update POI data, monitor tracks and much more.

Avtosputnik also works with traffic data, which it receives from SMILINK or Yandex.Traffic resources. Also available voice guidance provided in Russian. And you can buy additional cards online. More information can be found on the internet.

City guide

A very good "city navigator", which is deservedly popular among users. It is also cross-platform (it can even work on Symbian S60 smartphones). Includes detailed maps with an address plan of all cities and towns, as well as a general road map of all of Russia. The address plan supports a Russian-specific address system of the “house-building-building” type. The outlines of the houses are outlined fairly accurately. The most interesting is the very original system informing about traffic jams. Most navigation services use information from special information services as data on traffic jams.

In the City Guide, the source of information is the drivers themselves. As soon as your average speed decreases significantly, you will be subtly asked if you got into a traffic jam by chance? In this way, the service collects the necessary statistical data. Accordingly, the more cars there are in a traffic jam, the more correct the information is. City Guide maps contain information about everything a driver needs on the road, objects: hospitals, pharmacies, gas stations, hotels, restaurants, etc.

The program has a very flexible system individual settings that will impress even the most demanding user: the button customization function quick access, options for route selection strategies, customizing the appearance of the main buttons on the screen, bookmarks (for example, work, home, etc.).

Navitel Navigator

Navitel Navigator is perhaps the most popular navigator in Russia for people who are not limited to moving only within the city limits. The program uses its own cartographic database, which already compares favorably with other services on the market. The database was developed specifically for Russia in cooperation with the state organization Roskartografiya, as a result of which the maps of this service are surprisingly detailed and accurate. And the speed of updating the maps is very pleasing (every 2-3 months). In addition, each update carries with it a constant expansion of regional coverage.

The appearance and internal functions of the program are the same as those of other services - the picture and the principle of operation are not too different from competitors. Traffic data comes from SMILINK. For this, a GPRS connection or an UPI set-top box is used. Unlike the old versions of Navitel (up to 3.2), where the user, when buying a general map of Russia, was forced to buy more detailed maps of regions separately, now a complete and detailed map has become available for purchase. You can find out more about the program here.

iGO 8

iGo 8 is a 3D cartographic navigation program that simulates architecture, terrain, road junctions and other objects in three dimensions. This makes it much easier to navigate the terrain. Unfortunately, high detail and large coverage areas, where you can find any suburban cottage on the map, are only available in America and Europe. Residents of our country will not be able to fully enjoy the unique capabilities of the navigation program.

iGo 8 does not show Russian traffic jams; outside the capitals, maps become uninformative and incomplete at all. The program supports the connection of universal European TMC receivers. More information about this program can be found here Garmin Mobile XT

Garmin Mobile XT

The Garmin Mobile XT software leaves a mixed impression. And all due to the fact that it is a combination of obvious advantages and obvious disadvantages. The program with a very user-friendly interface, support for many maps, has a high degree of detail and detail, not only in European countries, but also in Russia. However, map updates are extremely rare: no more than 2 times a year. As a result, cartographic errors accumulate very quickly, and if in Europe they are constantly corrected, in Russia they can remain in several versions in a row, without any corrections, causing multiple inconveniences.

On top of that, the Garmin Mobile XT does not support traffic jams. But at the same time, I would like to note that the animation and voice accompaniment are made on the very high level.

Suburb

The city is one more step by Russian developers to get closer to the level and quality of foreign navigation programs. The task is quite difficult: almost all navigation systems completely cover the territory of Russia, and many users have already decided on a program that meets their requirements. But Progorod still has a chance.

So in the navigation program Progorod some innovations were implemented. The user will be provided with realistic images of complex junctions and intersections, upon approaching which a prompt will appear, with lanes available to continue the specified route. The arrow will point to the desired direction. In addition, for the convenience of navigating the city, absolutely all buildings are presented in 3D. Otherwise, Progorod supports all basic functions. navigation systems.

Yandex Maps

The Yandex Maps project is a cartographic service that includes more than 130 large cities in Russia, Ukraine and other countries. The service provides images of cities from satellites and information about traffic jams in real time.

A huge advantage of this system is its cross-platform nature. The service works seamlessly on the most common platforms such as Android, Windows Mobile, Blackberry, Symbian and Java.

Information can be received both through the GPRS receiver built into the device, and from the operator's base stations. The first option is more accurate, while in the second, orientation may be available even on a device that is not intended for this. The service has one rather pleasant feature - the ability to add “dangerous” points on the route to the map yourself (for example, an accident, security cameras or traffic police posts). By analogy with other products, the service provides the ability to search for infrastructural objects in the area of ​​your location, as well as, if you have a GPS receiver, the function of recording your route.

The disadvantages of the system include the need to connect to the Internet, since the download of data on the terrain and traffic jams occurs online.

[email protected]

Mail.ru service presented its own navigation project for mobile devices... Navigation works on Symbian and Windows Mobile platforms and is completely free.

The main difference from similar Google services and Yandex is the lack of the need for a permanent internet connection. In online mode, only information about traffic jams is transmitted, the maps themselves can be loaded into the device in advance. The service is provided throughout Russia, as well as on the main European highways.

For Moscow and St. Petersburg there is a possibility of loading three-dimensional models of buildings. The service also provides an interesting service that allows users to exchange the coordinates of their location, which, you see, is very convenient in unfamiliar cities.

Conclusion

We have more than once focused your attention on the fact that when choosing a navigator, you should clearly understand for what purposes you need it. There are a lot of options here: navigation for pedestrians, navigation in the city or across the country, with or without information about traffic jams ... Having decided on this, you can choose the map itself. The main thing is that it is as comfortable as possible for you.

Bogdan Maslov

Today, users have access to a wide range of navigation applications. Moreover, and domestic manufacturers develop high-quality programs for navigators, so their products are in good demand.

Below we will take a closer look at the most popular ones, their features, disadvantages, convenience and advantages.

Yandex. Navigator "is free program, it operates on the territory Russian Federation and other former countries of the union. The program weighs only twelve megabytes, but it is worth considering that all maps are loaded, so you cannot work in Off-line mode.

The functionality is really small, but everything works quickly and without interruption. One of the most important advantages is a convenient, well-thought-out interface. The menu is intuitive, so any user can figure it out, even those who first saw it. In addition to the "Search" and "Map" tabs, there is a "Favorites" tab where you can enter frequently used addresses.

Let's list the main disadvantages of the program:

• we need stable access to the network;
• there is no information on the speed limit;
• the card cannot be inserted into the phone memory;
• does not show lanes;
• quickly consumes battery power;
• does not show courtyard passages;
• limited functionality.

One of the main disadvantages is that in some localities the Internet may not work and, accordingly, it will be impossible to use the application.

The program indicates how to get to your destination, bypassing traffic jams and congestion. It determines the fastest route from the starting point to the ending point, taking into account road accidents, accidents and roads being repaired. The driver chooses one and 3 route options offered by the application.

During the trip, the screen shows how many minutes and kilometers are left before reaching the goal.

Yandex Navigator has information about large parking lots not only in Moscow, but also in St. Petersburg, Kazan, Krasnodar and other cities. The map indicates where it is allowed to leave the car, and where it is prohibited.

It takes 2 seconds to launch the application, and you need to wait the same amount of time until your location is displayed on the map. Having entered the menu, the driver must mark those events (accident, opening of bridges, road works, etc.) about which the program will notify him.

The speech recognizer functions perfectly, therefore it is not necessary to enter the addresses manually, the built-in module is able to recognize the end of the phrase and the application will immediately give the result.

"Progorod"

Progorod is a car navigator that shows maps and routes not only in Russia, but also in more than sixty other countries.

One of the advantages (especially compared to Yandex) is the ability to work without a network connection. Internet access is necessary only to update the maps and see where congestion and traffic jams are now.

The city is supported by such platforms as "Windows", "Android", "IOS" and some others. The navigator is equipped with a voice notification function, which informs the driver not only of the usual information, but also warns him about approaching CCTV cameras.

The most latest version the program allows you to call emergency assistance if a traffic accident occurs. All roads and intersections are high-quality traced, this allows you to move comfortably in large metropolitan areas. The picture itself is realistic and vivid.

The menu is very well thought out, 6 large icons are shown on the screen - address search and others. Above are the panels of tabs such as "Routing" and "Settings".

The driver can choose one of several route options that are offered to him this application... For example, the "Normal" path provides for the minimum number of maneuvers. "Convenient" allows you to quickly reach the final goal. The route is also laid in courtyards, which is not found in all navigators.

The 3-D map is no worse than in other programs. The user can view buildings drawn with real heights. So the graphics are realistic. The navigator shows the dividing lanes, it helps to rebuild in time to the desired lane.

The scale of the map is set automatically when you move. It increases if the car makes a maneuver or slows down, the rest of the time the driver sees a distant plan.

Low consumption is among the main advantages mobile traffic... Of the minuses - traffic jams on the lanes are not displayed, in addition, there is no support for On-line services on the maps of other countries.

There are no problems with installing the cards, the archive with the cards takes up a little more than one gigabyte of free space on the carrier. The application is launched in five to seven seconds.

Each of the proposed routes is adequate, while the program can play them at any speed. In the direction of travel, the Progorod indicates the speed permissible in a given area, if the driver exceeds it, he is immediately notified by a voice message.

The application is not free, the cost is about 1400 rubles.

Navitel

Navitel is a multi-platform navigation system that runs on well-known platforms such as Windows, Android and Ios.

This program has extensive functionality. The maps are similar to those of Yandex and Progorod. The menu is not the most convenient, there are too many icons and obscure symbols. But on the other hand, the navigator works in almost any country in the world, only in Europe it is available in fifty states.

The navigation program details about one hundred and sixty thousand cities and towns of the Russian Federation. Maps are relevant both for megacities and small towns. The driver only needs to indicate the address and the GPS will establish its location and suggest a route.

Let's point out the shortcomings of this program:

• Navitel is able to function without a network connection, although not very correctly, therefore, constant access to the Internet is desirable;
• the program independently sets intermediate waypoints, and they cannot be changed;
• the interface of the maps is not very convenient, it is unlikely that you will be able to master it right away, it will take some time;
• Navitel will not launch on every device, since its requirements are quite high.

The navigator has gained great popularity in the Russian market of navigation systems, but in addition to this, it is sold in European, Asian and Latin American countries.

The latest version is better optimized and runs faster. The maps are updated regularly, in which all the smallest details are indicated.

When you enter the address, prompts are displayed. The driver is offered only one route option, its length is displayed during the trip.

The navigator tells you how long it will take to reach your destination. Each waypoint is accompanied by additional information, for example, the price of fuel at a gas station is indicated.

Traffic jams are also shown, information about them is updated every five to ten minutes. The system determines them by measuring the average speed of movement of vehicles.

The map displays surveillance cameras, traffic accidents, road works. Therefore, there are no complaints about the functionality of the program navigator.

Unfortunately, you won't be able to download the application for free, you will have to pay for a licensed product, however, you can install a trial version.

CityGuide

CityGuide supports all popular platforms. The program leaves a positive impression. She has a large set additional functions and capabilities that are streamlined and non-confusing for the user. are carried out on the map screen, this does not allow you to lose sight of the route.

The menu is arranged in an unusual way, the map is located on the left side, and the input is carried out on the right. After pressing the icon "Let's go" a 3-dimensional map appears. The detailing was done very well, taking into account both the shape of the buildings and their size.

The navigator shows traffic jams, but not like in other applications, but by lanes. This provides accurate information. True, traffic jams are visible only on a large scale.

The menu is easy to customize, the driver can customize any of the twenty-seven functions. The control on the keyboard is not very convenient, there are also mistakes in choosing the right route, which is the main drawback of the system.

Doesn't guarantee easy travel or escape from city traffic jams. Much more important is the "stuffing" of such an assistant - the cards. So, educational program: there are two types of maps for standard navigators:

• raster (tourist, such as: Yandex.Maps and Google Maps. Simply put, this is a picture with a real terrain);
• vector (more convenient for motorists: all points of interest - POIs are marked here. This is no longer a picture, but a set of objects).

The best map software for navigators: guidelines for choosing

Do you have a headache because of the daily routing of a car? The solution is a gps navigator filled with detailed and convenient maps, otherwise it can lead you into a very real swamp.

But the headache appears for another reason: too big choice... We decided to make life easier and picked up 5 best cards for GPS navigators... Let's talk further about Navitel, CityGuide, Yandex Navigator, Garmin, IGO.

And further, 3 simple rules how not to be mistaken in choosing navigation maps:

1. Determine where the maps are more useful - in the country or abroad?

2. Do you get lost in the city or when you go out of it?

3. Is traffic jams a daily problem?

When you answer these questions, the choice will be obvious.

Navitel

Let's start with, perhaps, the promoted and recognizable brand - Navitel... In almost every store, you can easily find a navigator with this program (already built-in and configured), for example, as in models and. Navigation maps Navitel naturally not free fun. But this applies to any licensed product.

Of course, the maps are not perfect and users often have complaints. Among them: ill-conceived interface of the cards and overestimated requirements for the device and operating system. There are also complaints that Navitel periodically starts to “blunt” outside the country or during the city “toughness”.

But it is much more useful to learn about the benefits that Navitel has plenty of:

1. cards operate on 9 operating systems + high-quality technical support;
2. several options for the language bar;
3. Updates pleases a couple of times a month;
4. functionality - the package includes "Navitel.Traffic", "Friends", "Weather" and others;
5. the package, which is more expensive, includes maps of more than 50 countries;
6. Free services are also offered.

If you buy a navigator with Navitel navigation maps, then, traditionally, a 2-year license is guaranteed.

CityGuide

CityGuide navigation maps operate on 8 platforms and are not deprived of the attention of users. It entered the market in 2003, but the developers have made great progress since then. Interesting fact- CityGuide patented a route building algorithm that initially takes into account possible traffic jams.

Let's dwell on significant advantages of CityGuide:

• even if the operating system is low-performance, the interface still “does not hang”;
• the traffic situation is updated automatically;
• the graphics were highly appreciated, because the objects are presented in 3D format;
• notifies the driver about objects on the route: cafes, hotels, patrol post or traffic jam;
• regular updates;
• high-speed construction of adequate routes (and if you turn off the road, then an updated route is provided);
• quick start (from 9 to 12 seconds).

But it is worth noting a number of shortcomings - the developers did not provide a universal search system, you cannot rotate the map in manual mode... Both search and viewing received disapproval. Work on improving navigation maps is still ahead.

On the official website of this navigation service, you can easily find out the latest news about the company, contact the service technical support, add POIs to the map and even report traffic jams.

Yandex Navigator

The presented mobile navigation application works only on three operating systems, but it is considered popular. It has spread in the countries of the post-Soviet space and adapts just to this audience. And by the way, there is a free software called Yandex.Navigator.

Users highlight one unpleasant minus - the functionality is sharply reduced in the absence of a good Internet signal. In offline mode, Yandex navigation maps are useless.

And here advantages of Yandex Navigator an order of magnitude more:

• thoughtful interface;
• use of voice commands (the driver is less distracted from the road);
• quickly navigates and offers alternative ways to bypass (repairing roads, an accident or other unforeseen obstacle);
• speed, planned arrival time and distance to the point - this is broadcast by the application;
• from 2D to 3D mode and back switches automatically;
• when building a route, intermediate points are recorded and traffic jams are taken into account.

You can easily find more information about Yandex navigation maps on the official resource. This will form a clear idea of ​​the product.

Garmin

Let's clarify right away - the software works exclusively on "Garmin's" navigators: motorists often stop at the model, but tourists liked or. People who are not familiar with the program will consider this a disadvantage, but the brand's position is already well-established and the reputation is just excellent. Garmin navigation charts initially successfully entered the American market, and now they are gradually entering others. But Garmin has an uncomfortable moment - not everyone is able to afford such an expensive product.

Although there is something to pay for, there are enough pluses:

• function "photoReal" (clear, realistic pictures of roads, signs or objects that will meet along the way);
• the "Traffic" service remains free for the time being;
• convenient and well-thought-out interface;
• wide coverage;
• detailing in address search (the numbers of buildings and structures are taken into account, and not just the house number);
• base maps are provided immediately after purchase.

If you think about GPS-navigators, then cars are far from the only transport that is worried about in Garmin- the line is very diverse.

On the official website you will find the necessary information: maps - travel, automobile, sports, aviation and sea, accessories, discounted goods and all kinds of new items.

IGO

Our short top 5 best maps for GPS navigators we finish with the IGO navigation program. At one time it was developed by a Hungarian company. The app was a huge success on the market. These maps seem to be created for those who are ready to jump off the spot and go on a long journey - to jerk a car abroad.

Drawn 3D maps of more than 70 countries are considered an indisputable advantage. Initially, the application was available only for 3 software, but now an android has been added. Of course, the list of advantages is not limited to this:

1.about 40 languages ​​for listening to voice prompts;
2. interface without unnecessary additions;
3. auto light and auto zoom;
4. recalculation of the route in case of deviation;
5. search for objects of infrastructure (POI) is performed by address, name or distance to the point of arrival;
6. door-to-door navigation.

IGO Navigation Maps good, but no one is perfect. The disadvantage of the application, people call the infrequent release of updates. Therefore, it is difficult to talk about the relevance of this or that route. It is also known that better program works in large cities. Therefore, it is highly likely that on a trip you will not be where you planned.

Minimum program - don't get lost

We are sure that our material has at least a little clarified the picture of the market for navigation offers. And there is no point in asking yourself how to choose a navigation program anymore? For traveling abroad, we advise you to take a closer look at the IGO line, but in the fight against city traffic jams, Yandex Navigator will be more useful.

We also suggest that you familiarize yourself with the video, which describes in detail how to get directions in the Navitel program:

A navigator in a car is definitely a useful and convenient thing, especially if its owner loves to travel. But only if a successful navigation program is uploaded to it. The following article below contains information about all the advantages and disadvantages of the most common navigation devices among domestic users.

Navigation programs are divided into offline and online, respectively, paid and free. Offline navigation is rarely free. Although it should be borne in mind that even with an online solution, you will have to pay for Internet traffic.

Programs using offline solutions

Navitel Navigator.

The navigation program Navitel, the main advantage of which is the presence of detailed maps of small settlements and other countries, it also has the ability to install custom maps.

In addition, with the navigator "Navitel" it is possible to track those sections of the road on which a "traffic jam" has formed. With the available Internet access, weather information is displayed, you can exchange sms messages with other users and visually observe their location on the map in real time.

Disadvantages.

The main disadvantages of the navigator "Navitel":

1. Confusion and inconvenience of the user interface;
2. The image of the maps is oversaturated with unnecessary information, which is often distracting and makes it difficult to navigate in it.

Compared to other navigation programs, Navitel does not display complex road junctions with an indication of a given direction, which, unambiguously, causes a feeling of indignation among drivers.

Installation of software and navigation maps is possible on any device, including versions for mobile platforms based on android, so Navitel can be classified as navigation programs for android.

CityGuide

The CityGuide navigation program can most often be seen in cars in the north-west of the country (St. Petersburg and the Leningrad Region).

Benefits of the program.

The advantage of this program is the technology "Traffic jams 2.0", which differs from the same "Navitel" or "Progorod" by more adequate displayed information about the presence of traffic jams in the direction of travel.

For example, in a situation when there is a free right lane, and there is a "traffic jam" on the left, when driving straight ahead, the CityGuide navigator will suggest driving further. What can not be said about the navigators "Navitel" or "Progorod", which will display the "traffic jam" on the entire section of the road and show another possible detour route.

User interface quite simple even for the layman, the visualization of maps in a realistic three-dimensional mode is at a high level.

Disadvantages.

The main disadvantage of the CityGuide navigation program is that its use is optimal only in large metropolitan areas, in addition, in comparison with the "Progorod", the number of road junctions is much smaller, the maps of some cities differ in quality from the maps of other settlements.

Service Progorod

Very popular with owners modern smartphones and besides maps of Russian cities. Navigation program Progorod contains maps of 11 foreign countries. Thanks to the MapStore service, updating maps and uploading new ones is possible directly from the device.

Management and benefits.

Controlling the Progorod navigator is quite simple and does not cause any difficulties. The main advantage and distinctive feature of Progorod navigation is the designation of a sufficient number of interchanges not only in Moscow and other large settlements of the country, but also on the periphery.

The program has a dynamic correction service that allows you to display and take into account when routing all changes in the direction of travel in real time.

Online capabilities.

Progorod Traffic Applications is the most economical service. Just like in "CityGuide" all maps are presented in a three-dimensional image, in addition, the modification based on android and iOS allows them to be scaled or twisted using the "multitouch" function, therefore the special modification Progorod is a navigation program for android.

All objects on road maps are displayed taking into account the number of storeys.

Disadvantages.

However, support for 3D images and other online features is available only for Russian maps "Sidicom Navigation".

Maps of other 11 foreign countries do not have this option, differ in the degree of detail and are inferior in quality of their execution.

Garmin

Garmin navigator, which, along with road maps, has topographic maps, which are in great demand among hunting and tourism enthusiasts.

The road maps are inferior in quality to the maps of the Progorod and Navitel navigation programs, but much better than those of the iGo navigator. Maps are updated once every three months.

Information about traffic jams is received using the Yandex. Traffic jams ”through the FM channel, which is absolutely free and due to the minimum coverage is possible only in large cities.

The interface is clear and practically does not differ from the control of the iGo navigation program.

iGo Primo

The iGo Primo navigation system in its application has a very curious add-on, which instead of the standard “turn right after 100 meters” will suggest “turn right after traffic lights” or “turn left immediately after the jewelry store”.

Maps are displayed on the screen in 3D, traffic congestion information is not available in all cities and the timeliness of the service leaves much to be desired.

Online solutions

Online navigation is presented on the Russian market by Google Maps and Yandex Navigator.

Google maps

Navigation google program Maps is preinstalled in many tablets and smartphones, and the service is absolutely free to use.

Advantageous characteristics of the program: a large number of maps of most countries of the world and the ability to plot a route from one city to another locality, but this option is available only in Russia. For example, you can't get from St. Petersburg to Stockholm with Google Maps navigation.

In addition, among other shortcomings - the lack of information about road junctions with the Junction View function, the program also has many flaws when laying the route and other errors in the spelling of street names, and inaccuracies are found even in Moscow.

Yandex Navigator

The navigation program Yandex Navigator provides a free service with a limited set of options and other functions, in particular, the number of maps in Russia does not even reach 1000.

Legal navigation devices sold in car accessories stores and online stores already have pre-installed software applications to the operating system of navigators with maps of the Russian Federation, the Baltic States, Scandinavia and some CIS countries. A significant part of the Russian market for car navigation devices is filled with navigators with software from City Guide and Navitel. Less common are Shturmann receivers with their original program and other navigators that work with the iGo or Progorod navigation program.

Navigator firm Shturmann, software from Navitel

These software applications are installed on navigators assembled in China by Russian OEM brands teXet, Lexand and other similar companies. All these navigators are operated by the operating room. Windows system CE and their characteristics are similar as two drops of water up to the execution of the body of the device. Their main advantage is the pre-installed navigation applications City Guide and Navitel. These programs are domestically produced in currently are the best in Russia in terms of the reliability and relevance of applied navigation maps and information on road traffic congestion.

Navigation software

An essential advantage of navigation devices operating under Windows control CE, it is also possible to install own programs driving from a memory card. This option is typical for many navigator models. You can check its availability when purchasing a product. The presence of the "Path to software" or "Navigation path" item in the menu of the main functions of the device, as well as the presence of a microSD slot, indicates the possibility of using various software navigation applications that are more acceptable for a particular region. For example, in St. Petersburg they use City Guide more, and in neighboring Helsinki they use iGo.

Garmin, TomTom and Navigon navigation receivers occupy a special position. These navigators have their own original platform, specially developed operating system and original software applications with navigation maps. They are distinguished by high reliability of work, however, in terms of the reliability of maps and the frequency of their updating, they are slightly inferior to Russian developments. In addition, they do not provide an opportunity to install additional software products... This means that you cannot put maps from Navitel or City Guide on your Garmin navigator.

You can learn more about how to choose a navigator

Characteristics of the program "Navitel Navigator"

Navitel Navigator interface

"Navitel Navigator"
Navitel Navigator is currently the most popular navigation program in Russia. Unlike others, it uses its own maps, developed in cooperation with the Russian cartographic service for use on the territory of Russia. These are the most accurate and detailed maps, which are updated regularly every quarter with a constant expansion of the covered area.

Video: A detailed overview of the Navitel Navigator program

The main advantage of this application program is the high quality of the topographic maps of the Russian regions, covering over 3 thousand cities and 130 thousand villages and towns, detailed detailing of objects, fast information update. In addition, it provides access to some useful services, has a decent level of rendering and supports other information services providing traffic.

The program can run on the operating systems Windows CE, Android 1.5, Windows Mobile, Windows Phone, iOS, BADA, Symbian. The cartographic base covers:

• over 3.5 million km of Russian roads;
• over 4.5 thousand Russian cities with detailed description streets;
• over 850 thousand objects of interest on the maps;
• maps of 8 republics of the CIS and over 40 states of Europe and America.

Navitel Navigator software modules:

1. "Navitel. Traffic jams" contains the latest information about the presence of traffic jams on the streets.
2. SPEEDCAM is a service function that warns of approaching the place where the speed limiter is set.
3. "Navitel.SMS" provides the ability to send SMS messages with the coordinates of your location to your friends.
4. "Navitel.Events" makes it possible to record the events taking place on the map or observe the events indicated by other users. Traffic accidents are usually recorded using this function.
   "Navitel.Friends" provides information about the movements of your friends and helps to lay the oncoming route.
5. "Dynamic POI" contains the latest useful information fuel prices, road campsites and hotels, train timetables, theater and cinema performances, etc.
6. "Navitel.Pogoda" stores information about the upcoming weather for the next 3 days in any region of the world.

Shturmann navigation program

Shturmann Navitor interface

The Shturmann company is among the leaders in sales of navigation receivers in the domestic market for automotive accessories. Up to a certain point, the company's navigators worked with the software "Navitel" or "Avtosputnik". Currently the company has produced its own Shturmann program, which is a common development of a group of large creative teams. The WEB-design with the interface was created at the studio of Artemy Lebedev, information about road loading was provided by Yandex.Probki, maps were provided by Navteq.

The program can work with Windows CE and Android 2.1 and higher operating systems. The cartographic base contains over 2 million km of Russian roads, detailed descriptions of more than 205 villages and Full description more than 600 cities of Russia. In addition, it includes over 350 thousand km of the road network of Ukraine, has maps of Belarus, Moldova, Azerbaijan, 45 European states.

The functionality of the program contains:

1. Yandex.Traffic jams provides information about traffic jams on the roads.
2. Friends on the Map allows registered users to follow the movement of their friends on the map. First you need to register.
3. "Prices for gasoline" makes it possible to find out about the cost of fuel at nearby filling stations.
4. POI-navigation stores information about 3 million Russian objects marked on the map. It will help you quickly find the object you need, for example, a bank, a gas station, a hotel.
5. "RosYama" contains information about holes on the track.
6. "Cameras on the roads" promptly warns of approaching the installation site of road radars.
7. "Parking Map" will provide information on the availability of the nearest parking lots.
8. "Moscow Guide" has all the information about the capital's sights.
9. "Call a tow truck" makes it possible to quickly get help from a tow truck. This function is supported by the All-Russian portal of tow trucks.

Features of Garmin navigators

Garmin navigation software

Garmin is widely used in its homeland - the American continent. The navigation receivers of this company are distinguished by their high operational reliability. Own operating system and software applications are customized and optimized for specific models navigators to ensure maximum system performance. The cartographic base for Garmin is being developed by Navteq. The navigational maps of the American continent have been developed by them quite fully and there are no problems with them. As for the Russian regions, the reliability of their information leaves much to be desired. However, positions of Garmin-Navteq in the Russian market are becoming stronger and more extensive every year.

"Avtosputnik"

"Autosputnik" navigation

The program is installed on middle class navigation receivers operating with Windows CE OS. It is more focused on versatility and has fewer options for optimization for a specific navigator brand. The advantages of Avtosputnik include a simple and user-friendly interface, advanced system functionality and decent visualization of maps. Tele Atlas and Geocenter-Consulting are developing maps for the Avtosputnik program. The products of these companies are distinguished by regular updates and good detailing of objects.

"City Guide"

"City Guide" navigation

City Guide is widely used in Russia, especially in large cities. The reason for this is the excellent detailing of objects in Russian megalopolises. In addition, the information is updated in a timely manner. The advantages of the program include the original procedure for drawing up the route of movement and operational information traffic density on the roads. In addition, the program has the "Dispatcher" option, which is very convenient for organizing transportation by several cars and group trips.

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Video: Navigating with the City Guide

The program can work with operating systems Android, iOS, Symbian, Windows CE, Windows Mobile, Windows XP, 7, 8. The cartographic database covers the territories of the CIS countries, the Baltic states, Finland, Georgia.

Program features include:

1. "Traffic jams" provides information about the presence of traffic congestion on the roads. This feature is maintained by CityGuide.
2. "Online changes" allow loading new data into the map automatically without software update... This increases the relevance of the downloaded maps.
3. "Monitoring" makes it possible to track the movement of a registered object.
4. "Track Recording" records and re-views the entire traversed route.
5. "Cameras on the road" informs the driver when he is approaching the range of the radar that monitors the speed mode of road traffic.
6. "3D Interchanges" shows a three-dimensional projection of a road junction on a highway for better orientation of the driver.
7. OpenStreetMap supports the use of custom maps.

"ProGorod"

The program has a good visualization of maps, images of buildings and interchanges at scale, an intuitive interface, a full package of necessary functions, timely data update. It works with Android OS, iOS, BADA, Windows Mobile, Windows CE. The cartographic base is provided with a map of the Russian Federation M 1: 106, 122 thousand cities and towns of the Russian Federation, 2.9 million km of roads, a map of Kazakhstan, Ukraine, Belarus, Moldova, and the countries of the European Union.

Software options include:

1. Traffic Jams provides information about traffic congestion on the roads.
2. 3D Interchanges provides a three-dimensional view of a road junction.
3. Dynamic Edits allows you to update information online.
4. "Geoblogging" makes it possible to record road accidents or other events on the map and view events marked by other people.
5. Augmented Reality superimposes the camera image onto the map image.
6. Lane guidance gives advance lane and alignment hints.
7. 3D Buildings shows buildings in three dimensions.

When choosing a map, take into account the place of use of the navigator, a city or a suburban road, check the frequency and the latest date of updates to avoid the risks of getting into unforeseen traffic situations.