Direction Apps Comparison - http://www.realsimple.com/work-life/technology/driving-directions/google-maps-app
1. Google Maps
Best for: The no-nonsense driver.
The gist: Just like regular Google Maps (think: easy-to-read routes and live, color-coded traffic conditions), except now it talks. And it does so in the most pleasant, crystal-clear voice of all the apps tested.
Nice surprise: Want to stop for lunch? Check restaurant reviews right on the app.
Biggest minus: It’s bare-bones basic; other apps on the market offer more exciting features, like clever accents and tips on speed traps.
2. Waze
Best for: The clever commuter.
The gist: This community-based app relies on users to provide info on traffic jams, accidents, and more. You automatically contribute data, such as the average speed on a given road, just by driving.
Nice surprise: Waze learns your preferred routes to repeated destinations and guides you using those routes instead of its own.
Biggest minus: The audio sounds like a voice from a 1980s answering machine.
3. MotionX GPS Drive
Best for: The fun seeker.
The gist: The app offers a bevy of voice choices, so you can be told where to go by an amorous older lady or a starchy British man. Plus, you can tell the app to play specific songs while you drive.
Nice surprise: The app takes note of your parking spot, audibly directing you back to your car when you’re ready to roll.
Biggest minus: The membership fee. You can opt for a free, nontalking version of the app, but it’s harder to use while driving.
4. Navigon USABest for: The driver who wants to leave nothing to chance.
The gist: The basic app will get you from point A to point B, but the coolest stuff is to be found in the extras: one guides you on foot to nearby public transportation stops; another helps you avoid congested roads.
Nice surprise: The “reality scanner” uses your phone’s camera to provide a helpful look at your surroundings—noting, say, which nearby buildings contain ATMs.
Biggest minus: The costs add up, as does the memory usage on your smartphone if you load it with extras.
Comparing these most successful navigational apps from the app-store has introduced me to some interesting new user experience related features which can make the process more memorable and efficient - so I will take note of these and be inspired when designing my own
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