The emergence of Global Positioning System (GPS) application on the mobile phones nowadays have been creating havoc in the real time navigation market, as the standalone GPS devices are now witnessing a massive slump in demand and sales. The current generation navigation devices are limited to the extent to supplying the users with directions only. However, many mobile applications these days not only provide turn by turn direction but also give tips to the drivers, as to where they can avoid the most traffic.

As per analysts, the dedicated GPS manufacturing companies such as, Garmin, TomTom etc. have to take immediate and concrete steps to provide their customer with better services and enhanced features, if they wish to be in the competition. Just like the camera companies who have not only managed to survive but have also witnessed incredible growth, by the consumers that, even though they have cameras in their phones, still the quality will always be inferior as against a dedicated digital camera.

However, the navigational devices manufacturers are already implementing some much needed changes in their products. A primary upgrade being the in inclusion of wireless technology wireless technology to their products, but only to the top models. This upgrade would provide the users with up to date real time traffic data including weather information. Almost all GPS devices are expected to have wireless capabilities by the year 2015.

Via Associated Press.