Google intros free Maps Navigation for Android 2.0, Garmin and TomTom stocks plummet

The same day when the Verizon Motorola Droid was officially unveiled, Google announced Maps Navigation for Android 2.0.

Designed from the ground to leverage on your handset’s Internet connection, Google Maps Navigation for Android 2.0 offer lots of nice features, including: the latest map and business data, search and search by voice (in English), traffic view, satellite view, Google street view, and car dock mode.

Unlike most of the GPS services offered by major companies (like Garmin and TomTom), Google Maps Navigation for Android 2.0 is free.

Probably that’s why, almost immediately after Google Maps Navigation for Android 2.0 was announced, the stocks of Garmin and TomTom have plummeted (as Engadget pointed out).

google maps navigation android 20

Here’s video presentation of Google Maps Navigation for Android 2.0 (and yes, that phone is Verizon’s Motorola Droid – which was also spotted in GSM flavor):

All in all, Android is really becoming a threat to almost all companies that are directly or indirectly related to the mobile industry. And that’s a good thing, since competition eventually means better products for us, the end users.

Via the Official Google Mobile Blog

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Posted on 28 Oct 09 - Filed in Android, Software&Services, google - Comments - Written by ilinca

  • staurt
    paraphrased from engadget comment, maybe google can provide a turn by turn direction as to where garmin and tomtom stocks are heading

    go moto and go android, yay!
  • jobobike
    I do not see this as a bad thing for Garmin because they do not own the maps in the Garmin products. I have a Garmin and like it very much. I think what would be good for Garmin is to contract with Google for the maps. Garmin then can eat up Tom Tom.
  • JoeAnne11
    I really enjoy my iphone navigation system. It is even better when I can see whatever I want, from different kind of hotels or restaurants to latest car insurance quotes or dollar exchange course. This is why in my opinion Iphone is the best cell phone ever designed.
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