Garmin StreetPilot Onboard U.S.A. Review: A Great Navigator, but little flare

App Name:	Garmin StreetPilot Onboard U.S.A.
Platforms:	iPhone/iPad
Publisher(s):	Garmin International
Version Reviewed:	1.0
Genre(s):	navigation
Release Date:	August 2, 2011

Here we are, discussing yet another major player in the world of iPhone navigation. If you haven’t noticed just yet, there are lots of way to use your iPhone to help you get where you’re going. The built-in Maps app is sufficient for some, but those of us who rely on technology more than an innate sense of direction need something like Garmin StreetPilot Onboard U.S.A. As would be expected of a company with a reputation like that of Garmin, this app hits high marks on every level. Whether you choose it over other options like TomTom or Navigon will depend on a few specific features, which we’ll compare/contrast in a soon-to-come meta review covering navigation apps across the board. For now, let’s take a closer look at this app in particular.

The experience of using Garmin on your iPhone will come with no learning curve for those who have experience using one of Garmin’s standalone devices. Essentially, Garmin has ported their software and maps onto the iPhone with nearly imperceptible alterations. The same stripped-down interface we know shows its face, with the welcome screen allowing you to bypass any bells and whistles by tapping “Where To?” or “View Map.”

The process of entering addresses is neither better or worse than what we’ve come to expect. Barring the pairing of Navigon and Navigon Now, a GPS provider has yet to impress by offering us an address input system that doesn’t feel like pulling teeth. Garmin reproduces the dreaded line-by-line input system, leaving us dreaming of the day when we’ll simply be able to copy and paste an address without the help of a third-party app like Navigon Now. I’ve said it previously, but it bares repeating—in the world of GPS apps where so much is the same, when will a company recognize that address input is one sector where innovation is especially worthwhile?

… But I digress. Once you’ve selected a destination, Garmin will get you there. You can utilize turn-by-turn directions, lane assist with junction views, detours, Google Local Search, and just about any other basic feature you’d hope to see from a major player in the world of navigation.

So what’s missing? Well, nothing, if all you need is a moderately priced navigator that doesn’t go above and beyond the call of duty to get you where you’re going. You’re also sure to enjoy the clean interface afforded by the barebones presentation. By sticking to the basics, Garmin has nailed the middle of the market with $39.99 application that will neither disappoint nor delight you with its set of features and functionality. Put simply, this is the vanilla of iPhone navigation apps. It works every time and a lot of people will enjoy it, but some of the alternatives pack a bit more flavor in terms of unique features, flashy presentation, or lower prices.

Are you sold on the middle-ground option presented by Garmin StreetPilot U.S.A , or do you want to be reminded of your other choices and why they might be worth consideration? Stay tuned for the meta review that will stack the choices side by side, providing you with all the information necessary to make the choice that best fits your navigation requirements.

About the Author

Devin Wieland

 

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