Navigon and ALK Technologies claimed the second and third spots in the company’s new evaluation of worldwide on-board handset-based navigation software vendors.
The Vendor Matrix is an analytical tool developed by ABI Research to provide a clear understanding of vendors’ positions in specific markets. Vendors are assessed on the important parameters of “innovation” and “implementation” across several criteria unique to each vendor matrix.
Practice director Dominique Bonte comments: “Nokia’s recent decision to offer Ovi Maps for free globally across its smartphone portfolio further strengthens the number one ranking already obtained in the previous version of this Vendor Matrix. At the same time, Ovi Maps continues to be enhanced with features such as an online mapping portal, city guide local content, pedestrian map details, “Good Things” Points of Interest community feedback, and unique hybrid functionality. Finally, Nokia has bold plans to turn Ovi Maps into the leading open LBS development platform.”
For this particular matrix, under “innovation,” ABI Research examined the software’s navigation features, its support for local search, the availability of map upgrades, its sharing capabilities, its provision of traffic information, and the business model on which it is based, along with pricing options.
Under “implementation,” ABI Research scrutinized the following criteria: the vendors’ market share, their carrier agreements and handset/PDA manufacturer agreements, the products’ mobile platforms and form factor coverage, and the general health of the vendor companies. The breadth of global coverage, quality and reliability, and customization options were also factors considered.
To view a chart showing the rankings of the “top ten” firms in this Vendor Matrix, please visit Global On-board Navigation Software Matrix.
