So what are the best navigation apps for iPhone and Android and are they really better than a trusty road map?
Apple Maps
As you might expect, Apple Maps is designed for iPhones. The app has had a lot of bad press with many users complaining about being misdirected or well-known places not existing on the maps, despite the fact millions of people live there.
However, despite its faults, Apple Maps may be worth trying as your default navigation app if you own an iPhone. But if you end up hopelessly lost, it could be time to download a different navigation app instead.
Google Maps
Google Maps is probably the most popular multi-platform navigation app. It is free and although it isn't perfect, it gives you just about everything you need from a navigation app, with the minimum of fuss. Google Maps can direct to you just about anywhere.
The Google mapping service is comprehensive and there are very few parts of the world Google Maps is not aware of. The navigation service gives you turn-by-turn directions. It can also give you traffic estimates, although some users have complained that these are not terribly accurate.
CoPilot GPS
The award winning CoPilot GPS app is for iPhones and had been featured in a number of top tech websites, including CNET and Endagadget. When using this app, maps are downloaded in advance, which helps the app to run a lot faster. Routes can be edited using the drag and drop facility, plus there are lots of useful features, including social sharing and a walking mode.
Waze
The Waze app is for iPhones and Android devices. The app is free to use and it offers comprehensive route directions, which is what you need from a navigation app. However, the Waze app also has a number of other useful features.
The app gives users traffic information based on up to the minute user feedback on accidents and speed traps, so it could save you lots of time and minimize your chances of picking up a speeding ticket. You can also use the app to search for gas stations if you are low on fuel.
http://www.waze.com/
Gokivo Navigator
The Gokivo app for iPhone offers a free 30-day trial, but thereafter you will need to pay for the service. There are two levels of subscription: basic and enhanced. The app has lots of great features, including live traffic alerts, day and night modes, local gas price indicators and social media integration.
The current version of the app has a good rating and user comments are very favorable.
https://itunes.apple.com/us/app/gokivo-gps-navigator-turn/id319730503?mt=8&affId=1503186
Navigation apps can be incredibly useful, but never follow them blindly as they do sometimes make mistakes.
Use your common sense if the app directs you down a route that clearly isn’t safe. And finally, navigation apps drain battery life very fast, so have a backup charger to hand.
Todd JacobsonAbout the Author:
This post is authored by Todd Jacobson who is an instructor at Sports Car Driving Experience, a racing school that provides race car driving lessons. He loves his car and enjoys going on road trips with his family.