{REVIEW} SYGIC Mobile Maps 9
 

Hi people of the Maemo community :)

I decided to write the below review of the recently released SYGIC Mobile Maps 9 for the Nokia N900. Just to sum up all the pros&cons of this great application. One-and-only so far and fully functional. Feel free to comment, lay out your own opinion, what needs to be improved, what you like and any kind of problems that you might be facing.

Sygic people themselves are here with us (two accounts: zdeno. & SygicSupport) so their support is highly appreciated.

->Let's start with the installation process itself:

http://members.multimania.co.uk/stan...t06_resize.png

a) it's fully automated within the windows environment (EXE file), just follow the instructions
b) non-windows users, use ZIP file all the files to /home/user/MyDocs/

Some people here have had problems so if the app refuses to start upon the installation, make sure you do the following before posting the problem:


1. Uninstall the Maps software through app manager.
2. Remove Drive, Maps and Res folders and the DEB file from the N900.
3. Connect via USB in mass storage mode.
4. Run the assistant again and install it on the internal flash!
5. Disconnect.
6. Fire up the DEB file, again through app manager, not dpkg -i
7. Reboot.


It should work, if it won't contact Sygic Support at: support@sygic.com



->Tips&tweaks:

All the info (more menu options, full screen, lag on gps position) is here, posted by zehjotkah
http://talk.maemo.org/showthread.php?t=47801


->UI and options:

The UI is very easy to navigate, it's complexity is minimized and clear enough to get with all the available options familiar in just a few minutes.
It is comparable to Garmin Mobile XT and much more advanced than Nokia OVI Maps on symbian devices (won't mention maemo OVI Maps version, 'cause it is simply cant be compared), although the way how ovi maps display the map in browse mode is in my opinion slightly better.

Right after you launch the app it will ask you whether you want A-GPS turned on or not. It's your choice. Having it turned on, GPS will get a lock in just a couple of seconds, while without it'll be ready within a few minutes. Then you'll get a safety warning.

http://members.multimania.co.uk/stan...t04_resize.png
http://members.multimania.co.uk/stan...t05_resize.png

Tapping on the sat lock bars, you'll get a GPS info screen showing the strength of a signal, coordinates and satellites allocation.

http://members.multimania.co.uk/stan...t07_resize.png
http://members.multimania.co.uk/stan...t10_resize.png


Tapping on the map brings you to the main menu, see the screens below:

[1/2 section of main menu]: Here you've got a 'Navigate to...' option where you can set all details regarding navigation process (see Navigation process section for details where you can find some info regarding 'Route' button too). 'Browse map' allows you to go through the map while zooming in/out at the same time, search for an address, start navigation, show/hide POI, avoid selected place if the route is already calculated. So the UI as you can see is very user-friendly and flexible. 'Traffic' button is grayed out and it's now available right out of the box, besides service is not available in Poland so I'll skip it. From the main menu you can also select an 'Alternative route' icon and re-calculate the route and so on (see the screenshot below).

http://members.multimania.co.uk/stan...t11_resize.pnghttp://members.multimania.co.uk/stan...t33_resize.pnghttp://members.multimania.co.uk/stan...t29_resize.png

'Settings' icon is the place where all the customization can be done. Is has got 4 screens filled with the further options.

http://members.multimania.co.uk/stan...t13_resize.pnghttp://members.multimania.co.uk/stan...t14_resize.pnghttp://members.multimania.co.uk/stan...t15_resize.pnghttp://members.multimania.co.uk/stan...t16_resize.png

Almost all of them are self-explanatory so let's skip the description of those.
The first icon has 3 map view variants: 3D View, 2D (flat) view and 2d North Up.

In 'Planning preferences' you've got options shown below...

http://members.multimania.co.uk/stan...t26_resize.png

I am using Economic route calculation and it seems to be the right way for me. I did not tested the last two selections though, only in-car environment :)
In the 'Signpost settings' one can set the number of direction signs displayed whether in all directions or just preferred one.

'Left/Right handed' option switches manipulation buttons due to your preferences. In 'GPS hardware' it is possible to manipulate the GPS unit settings, like port on which the app listens to and so on...that icon and GPS Logs are not available out of the box so if you are curious just unlock and check them for your own.

Last but not least is the 'Advanced settings' button, here's what you can set inside:

http://members.multimania.co.uk/stan...t18_resize.pnghttp://members.multimania.co.uk/stan...t19_resize.pnghttp://members.multimania.co.uk/stan...t20_resize.pnghttp://members.multimania.co.uk/stan...t21_resize.pnghttp://members.multimania.co.uk/stan...t22_resize.pnghttp://members.multimania.co.uk/stan...t23_resize.pnghttp://members.multimania.co.uk/stan...t24_resize.pnghttp://members.multimania.co.uk/stan...t25_resize.png

As you can see on the above screens, it's easy to customize all the info displayed while navigating. Lane assistant is a truly great thing and it actually shows you the remaining distance left to be driven on a selected line. Generally all those settings should be found in a decent navigation unit/app and they are here so Sygic made their work very well.


[2/2 section of main menu]: Here you can find the 'Itinerary', if you have added any points through 'Browse map' or 'Alternative route' buttons - this is the place where those points can be managed. You can see the starting and end points, waypoints. Moreover you can get those points marked as visited, make a point as a via point, start or end point and add a POI.
I like it a lot :) The next one is 'Manage POI' icon, pretty much self-explanatory again - add/delete/manage POI's. Pressing 'GPS Status' button will get you to the very same screen as when tapping on the sat lock bars right after the app has been lunched.

From here you can also 'Memorize position' while in 'Extras' the one would find a word clock, calculator, unit converter and a country info.
The last one is very handy feature, tapping on a country gets you some useful info like currency, day light savings, driving side, number of inhabitants, phone code, time zone, units, whether car lights should be on or off, speed-limits in the city; on a highway etc...

It's like having a small guide and it's all inside your pocket - niceeee Sygic, very nice indeed :)

'Exit' button - well, it does what it does and it does it well :D

http://members.multimania.co.uk/stan...t12_resize.png



->Navigation process:

Remeber 'Navigate to...' and 'Route' buttons within the main menu? This is where all the magic happens :)
Just select the most appropriate way for you to start and you're good to go.

http://members.multimania.co.uk/stan...t34_resize.pnghttp://members.multimania.co.uk/stan...t35_resize.png

Route can be calculated using using the 'Address' button, selecting a country->city->street->street number. Tapping on the 'ZIP Code' gets you there even faster.
I do like the 'City Center' option - very useful on a trip, when you don't know destination city at all. Another words, all mandatory functions have been bundled within the software.


Anyway, ones the route is calculated, we can see it on the screens below. The first one shows it on the map, distance, ETA of the trip, time left and selected method. Tapping on the Details gets you to the second slide, where you can select what you want to avoid, here it's been grayed out, simply because there was no such restrictions available on my route.

http://members.multimania.co.uk/stan...248_resize.pnghttp://members.multimania.co.uk/stan...251_resize.png

Then route can be managed through the 'Route' icon located on the first slide of main menu.

http://members.multimania.co.uk/stan...421_resize.pnghttp://members.multimania.co.uk/stan...424_resize.png


'Show route instructions' & ' Show route as images' well, the icons explain it all i guess.
The screenshots shown next have been obtained using the 'Route demonstration' function...

http://members.multimania.co.uk/stan...227_resize.pnghttp://members.multimania.co.uk/stan...251_resize.png


On those two screens you can see pretty much all the info you get while navigating, it is very readable, everything has it's own place. The orange arrow shows the direction to destination. Lane assistant, radar alerts work very good. The route is navigated fast enough, gps fix is also much faster then in ovi maps.

The only thing that annoys me the most it that position shown on map is 20-30 meters upfront, so when you pass a speed camera it still shows 20-30m in front of you. While in GPS info screen, the shown accuracy it exactly between 20-40m, so maybe it's the GPS hardware is not up to task.

Now, almost at the end of my review I realized that I have forgotten to show how the app behaves while in portrait mode, so here are some pics. It does it very well by the way.


->Some found issues:

-automatic night/day mode sometimes won't work as it suppose to, it lacks the option to set the specific hour when to switch modes.
-gps lags 20-30meters, gps issue or maybe app needs to be improved
-sometimes sygic re-routes while navigating through unpaved roads, but there is no such road to turn on.


->What to improve:

-auto-rotate function, based on accelerometer.
-full screen on/off should be included, without the need to edit ini files.
-lag issue should be fixed ASAP, OVI Maps app does not have this bug - so it is a software sided not hardware...


->Summing up:

I am very happy that Sygic made this app available for N900 users and it's been well done. Even if there still some things and bugs to be fixed, we can be sure that Sygic people would stand up to the task. Mobile Maps 10 should be even better, symbian users report so.


Thanks for reading :)

Re: {REVIEW} SYGIC Mobile Maps 9
 

good review :)

Re: {REVIEW} SYGIC Mobile Maps 9
 

automatic screen rotation comes in the next version (I'm currently testing it, works VERY well).
fullscreen won't come so soon, because the ovi store requires the programs to have a easy way to change programs. sygic would have to add a button for the dashboard where they have the zoom out buton. that is not that easy because they want to have the same program on all platforms.
the lag issue can be resolved. see my modding sygic thread.

nice review.
Thanks!

Re: {REVIEW} SYGIC Mobile Maps 9
 

Thank you for the review. I've checked the website and when I get my N900 (in a week or two) I'm sure to get this application also.

Maybe one of Sygic's people on this board can comment on when version 10 will be available for Maemo and if I buy 9 now I'll also be buying upgrade protection so I can go to the latest version without extra cost?

Re: {REVIEW} SYGIC Mobile Maps 9
 

I did the mod, will check whether it works or not for me soon :) thanks

Re: {REVIEW} SYGIC Mobile Maps 9
 

They've already said that 10 will be a free update from 9.

Re: {REVIEW} SYGIC Mobile Maps 9
 

yes, Mobile Maps 10 will be available for customers of Mobile Maps 9 without extra costs.

Re: {REVIEW} SYGIC Mobile Maps 9
 

Missed that, but good to know.

Now all I need is the device... :)

Re: {REVIEW} SYGIC Mobile Maps 9
 

great review and I love the installtion FAQ hopefully will save alot of duplicate posts on problems page(Prob wont but he tried)
Thanks again for taking the time to compile this.

Re: {REVIEW} SYGIC Mobile Maps 9
 

Routing algorithm is rubbish! Route66 takes me via the shortest proper route whereas sygic takes me the longer way even if shortest is selected.

Re: {REVIEW} SYGIC Mobile Maps 9
 

they're working on it.

Re: {REVIEW} SYGIC Mobile Maps 9
 

So it will probably be in the next update to Sygic 10?

Anyway after all the hype Sygic is pretty much useless for me, as the one thing that I actually cared about is not very good. The routing algo.

I'll be sticking to my N95 8gb for the time being.

Re: {REVIEW} SYGIC Mobile Maps 9
 

Yes, sometimes it calculates the route in a very weird way, but for most of the cases it does what I expect. SMM9 is a newly ported release and some bug fixing should be done - seems to be normal for me...

Re: {REVIEW} SYGIC Mobile Maps 9
 

Looks nice, but is it really so that zoom in button is just below close button in default mode where you can see upper part of window.

If so it reminds me about blog what i recently read :)
http://www.codinghorror.com/blog/201...fitts-law.html
So basic notes for UI designer.

.edit
Means: "Do not put Eject seat button and lights on button close to each other" :P

Re: {REVIEW} SYGIC Mobile Maps 9
 

that's why I switched to the FS mode :)

Re: {REVIEW} SYGIC Mobile Maps 9
 

A couple questions about sygic maps before I can buy it. I have searched all over the forums but have not found an answer so far.

1) how much space does the installed program need (i suppose it depends on the region... I am interested in europe atm)? I see that the download is 1.8GB, and i have little more than that free. If it is much more then that I will have to buy an SD card first.

2) can I buy both europe and US regions? how much will that cost? how much space will that use up? I will probably buy europe first, but if I am happy with it I could be buying the US as well soon.

Re: {REVIEW} SYGIC Mobile Maps 9
 

Cost and other info is here:

http://www.sygic.com/index.php/en/ho....html?os=Maemo

You're good with the free space for Europe. Then you gonna need additional 1.3GB for USA.

Re: {REVIEW} SYGIC Mobile Maps 9
 

Planning on purchasing this software, but the only thing that is stoppin me is the traffic alerts? will the future update include any traffic info? (me being in new york, traffic could be a bit#h) so that's one of my necessity)

thanks!

Re: {REVIEW} SYGIC Mobile Maps 9
 

Ask here, support@sygic.com
I have no such option here in Poland, so it's hard to say for me...but when the additional functions unlocked, there is a traffic icon though.

Re: {REVIEW} SYGIC Mobile Maps 9
 

asked...will report back when i hear back from them...hopefully within a few dayz and not longer :)

Re: {REVIEW} SYGIC Mobile Maps 9
 

Actually nevermind...was checking this like: http://www.sygic.com/index.php/en/mo...-overview.html and on there it says that mobile maps 10 has real time traffic function. Now time to wait for the pay day! :D

Re: {REVIEW} SYGIC Mobile Maps 9
 

How long will it take until the new version will be released ? 1 week, 1 month, 3 months ? Just give me a clue.

Re: {REVIEW} SYGIC Mobile Maps 9
 

the programmer is currently waiting for approval to upload the version with automatic screen rotate and some bug-fixes to the repository.
They don't know exact dates.
Sygic Mobile Maps 10 will be free of charge for Mobile Maps 9 customers. It will include traffic notifications (internet connection required afaik) and some nice things more.

I will ask if traffic notifications over TMC will be possible.

Re: {REVIEW} SYGIC Mobile Maps 9
 

Does this software require data connection?

Re: {REVIEW} SYGIC Mobile Maps 9
 

for navigation not.
the N900 has a AGPS function, which means that it looks quickly on a server to get the current positions of the sattelites. that enables a faster fix.
but this can be turned of in the preferences of the N900.

Re: {REVIEW} SYGIC Mobile Maps 9
 

Bought maps 10 yesterday. Unable to download let alone install to my n900. Used 4 attempts to download to PC and 1 direct to N900 (you only get 5 go's and the link cannot be used after that). Can't find the download files on my PC but the file on the N900 is corrupt so can't install that either. Now in the hands of sygic support. Will let you know how I get on.

Re: {REVIEW} SYGIC Mobile Maps 9
 

Are you sure, that you bought Sygic for maemo?
Because there is no Mobile Maps 10 for maemo yet...

Re: {REVIEW} SYGIC Mobile Maps 9
 

Was definately for Maemo Nokia N900. Could have been maps9 I am not sure - the webpage is a bit misleading as it starts off with mobilemaps10 and when you click 'Buy Now' you are redirected to another page (http://www.sygic.com/index.php/en/mo...-overview.html). Either way I paid 59.99 euros and can not use it.

Re: {REVIEW} SYGIC Mobile Maps 9
 

Great review -- thanks!

Question: Is it integrated with the UI or other apps on the N900 at all?

I'm specifically wondering about the Contacts app -- if I've already got someone's address entered into their Contact details, does SMM provide an easy way to simply select them from Contacts and plot a route?

Re: {REVIEW} SYGIC Mobile Maps 9
 

Have to agree that it's a bit misleading. It doesn't say that you are actually getting version 9 until after you pay, download, and are installing. That's disappointing. I just purchased it and was a bit let down.

Re: {REVIEW} SYGIC Mobile Maps 9
 

The update to version 10 is free for version 9 customers..

This feature is coming in version 10

Re: {REVIEW} SYGIC Mobile Maps 9
 

Version 10 is looking very good! Nice of you to provide it for free to version 9 customers.

I'm really voting for TMC support, it would be very nice in foreign countries where roaming costs would prohibit internet based traffic information. And also just because, you know, it's possible on the N900! :)

Re: {REVIEW} SYGIC Mobile Maps 9
 

TMC is the feature I'm waiting for too, especially it will be available in Poland in a few month :)

Re: {REVIEW} SYGIC Mobile Maps 9
 

I hope that they will provide demonstration version. Because now it is 60€ just to test does application fits you.

Other option is "sygic maemo torrent" like search in Google but that's illegal way which I prefer to not go.

Re: {REVIEW} SYGIC Mobile Maps 9
 

This is nice overview of main features of the application, yet I/we need more in-depth answers before buying (such lame they didn't bother to release trial edition!). My biggest concern is about overall performance and stability of application and the system underneath when app is running.

Questions:

• Does SMM get sluggish when there's a lot going on behind the scenes CPU-wise?
• How does UI catch up with user actions? Does it suffer from frequent lags, or is it responsive enough?
• How large memory footprint does SMM take? Does it go into swap space once launched when no other app is running in the background?
• What happens when a phone call comes in while navigating? Does device catch-up quickly or is there that annoying "lock" when you *know* a phone call is coming yet UI is lagging behind?
• Is SMM minimized and on stand-by duing the phone call? Are voice directions also disabled?
• Does SMM come back automatically after hanging-up the call? Does it need to re-gain GPS lock?
• Is re-routing feature working fast and reliably? I've seen a video posted in one of the N900-related blogs (blame me, don't remember the URL) where author has put up a video of SMM really struggling to realize that driver has decided to take different route. Does that happen often?
• Did you/anyone try to calculate a long-distance trip, say UK-Poland, and see how SMM works then? Is there a significant difference performance-wise?

Oh, and another one to those who are aware of upcoming SMM 10 version: if they don't like trial versions, do they perhaps plan to offer more flexible time-limited licenses, like 10 EUR for 1 month or so (like the old Wayfinder on N810 worked)?

Re: {REVIEW} SYGIC Mobile Maps 9
 

yes, please provide a trial version

Re: {REVIEW} SYGIC Mobile Maps 9
 

Bear in mind that my unit is overclocked to 900Mhz...and latest SMM version installed.

1. While driving I usually have an FM trasmitter turned on and Music Player and the app does not lag at all. It might get sluggish when you push N900 CPU to the limit, but it's obvious though...
2. It is responsive enough, can't moan on that matter here.*
3. Won't help here, no deep analysis done as per that matter.
4. It catches-up quickly in my opinion.*
5. Yes, it is minimizes during a call, after you finish one, then you have to tap the app to restore it. Don't know whether it suspends the navi behind while talking, I guess it does, you can't hear voice commands, 'cause the speakers are used by the phone app!
6. Re-routing feature works well, but it needs a few seconds to realize that you are no longer on the previously calculated route.
7. No long destinations tested, only polish map is preinstalled on my unit. Maybe someone else will help you here.


*N900 itself lags sometimes, so it's perfectly normal for any app it runs to behave in the same way.

Re: {REVIEW} SYGIC Mobile Maps 9
 

Navigation is not suspend during the call , and you can hear the voice commands during the call as well.

This is after first update for Sygic (released last week)


The changes for last update is mentioned below
1. autorotation to one side
2. fullscreen
3. fixed issues when Portuguese language was set
4. position display improved
5. gps connection stays alive when the app is in the background, so that you can use other apps and have navigation running in the background

Re: {REVIEW} SYGIC Mobile Maps 9
 

Even when the app upfront is the phone app?
Maybe you're right, don't remember hearing voice commands while on call though...

Re: {REVIEW} SYGIC Mobile Maps 9
 

Wow, that sucks.