TomTom has just announced improvements to their iPhone navigation app, some of which address shortcomings we have criticized in the past. (See our TomTom app review.) The upgrade adds three key features routinely found on TomTom stand-alone navigation devices, including:

• Text to speech, which announces proper street names and locations rather than simply saying “turn right” or other generic instruction.
• Lane guidance/reality view, providing a realistic view of complicated interchanges and indicating the best lane choice as the driver approaches an exit or intersection. Works in vertical and horizontal modes.
• Help menu, which provides emergency phone numbers and directions to the nearest hospital, police, or other emergency help.

Music fans will be glad to hear the upgrade also now enables control of the iPod from within the application. Previously, users could not adjust volume, change selection, or make other adjustments to music while navigation was in use.  

Customizable audio warnings are also included to warn when the driver exceeds the speed limit or approaches safety cameras. A safety camera map and free database update are also included.

TomTom says the upgrade has been submitted to Apple for review, and once approved will be made available free to users who have already purchased the app. Once available, we will evaluate this new app version, along with the TomTom iPhone mount.

See our full reviews of AT&T Navigator, iGo My Way, Navigon Mobile Navigator, Sygic Mobile Maps, TomTom iPhone application, and X Road G-Map.

For more information on portable automotive GPS navigation systems, see our Ratings, first looks, and buying advice and watch our video guide. Discuss GPS devices in the forums.

—Jim Travers