3 May 2012

TomTom create new voice-controlled app

All motorists with sat nav systems will be familiar with the frustration of messing around with the touchscreen whilst driving their cars.

The in-car location and navigation firm have recently launched a new application for their range of sat navs that allow drivers to operate their device simply by using their voice.

The new voice recognition feature, Speak & Go, means that divers can control their navigation device completely hands-free which could keep eyes on the road and hands on the wheel.

Speak & Go recognises over 1,000 spoken commands, allowing motorists to interact with the device in a natural tone.

Tom-Tom already have an existing voice control and command function, however, they claim that their latest app is a vast improvement.

"The new Speak & Go feature helps increase focus and concentration by allowing users to keep their hands on the wheel,” says Corinne Vigreux, Managing Director of TomTom.

"Just say an address, a Point of Interest or simply ‘take me home', and TomTom plans your route straight away. Interacting with your navigation device has never been easier; it slots perfectly into your everyday drive,” added Vigreux.

The Speak & Go function is currently only available on the new TomTomVia 130 sat nav, which also features hands-free calling via Bluetooth.

The Visa 130 features TomTom's Map Share facility, which regularly updates road changes such as new speed limits and blocked roads.

The company has also launched the TomTom Via 135 which has all the same features as the 130, but a larger 5″ screen size in comparison to the 4.3″ on the 130.

If you're planning on doing more than one journey this Bank Holiday weekend in a rental vehicle that may require a sat nav, it could be advisable to check that your car rental insurance would cover any portable sat nav devices.