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The economy has just claimed another company.  No, it’s not an automobile company, but it is a GPS one.  In North America, GPSs have recently become all the rage, leading many companies to design innovative devices performing many useful functions.  Just from what I’ve read and heard, Navigon has created some good GPSs in the past, and they are well known for free lifetime updates.  However, the economy has forced them to restructure their company, and they have decided to pull out of North America. 

If you own a Navigon GPS, don’t get frustrated because they will keep their Chicago office around to take care of their customers.  Even though they are, essentially, calling it quits in the States, there is a good chance they will enter the world of smartphone apps—most notably, the iPhone and its vast App Store. 

With the new 3.0 software, the iPhone is capable of turn-by-turn directions, which could be a key factor if Navigon decides to gamble on the App Store.  I use the word gamble here because they can’t be sure whether or not they will profit from this venture.  They have to imagine other major GPS companies to attempt an iPhone app as well.  Moreover, will people be interested in purchasing a GPS app if they already have a standalone or car unit? 

In addition, you may remember a month ago, I contacted Navigon, TomTom, and Garmin to see if they had anything doing for the iPhone.  Navigon said the iPhone was seen as “potential opportunity”.  As of now, Navigon has only stated that they are looking to increase their presence in the Smartphone department,  But, I, for one, hope they at least take a look at the iPhone and their options. 

Via [GPS Business News]