NAVTEQ(R) Powers Calabash Technologies' Innovative Hand- Held Digital GPS Travel Guide
Monday February 26, 12:50 pm ET
CHICAGO, Feb. 26 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- NAVTEQ (NYSE: NVT - News), a leading global provider of digital maps for vehicle navigation and location-based solutions, announced that it has been selected by Calabash Technologies to provide digital map data for its new hand-held GPS Travel Guide, the Calabash World Explorer(TM).
Calabash Technologies, a technology company specializing in hardware and software solutions for the travel industry, launched the Calabash World Explorer to give travelers a way to explore their destination at a level normally reserved for locals. It combines the functionality of a hand-held GPS navigation device with the practicality of a travel guide, giving users access to detailed information on local shops, restaurants, beaches, attractions, activities and more. Interactive touch screens, photos, and audio allow tourists to create their own self-guided walking and driving tours in order to explore the local culture. The unit does not require an internet connection for refreshing data; it is updated daily during recharge through a satellite link for the latest information.
NAVTEQ's rich digital map data provides the foundation for an enhanced navigation experience. Combined with displayed guided directions, users are provided optimized routes to reach their selected location in the most time- efficient manner. Users also gain access to NAVTEQ's comprehensive Points of Interest (POI) database which includes local banks, ATMs, gas stations and other important destinations.
"The Calabash World Explorer gives travelers an opportunity to explore a destination on a whole new level by providing location awareness and deep cultural content which allows them to connect with the world around them," said Joseph K. Croney, President of Calabash Technologies. "The underlying accuracy and richness of the NAVTEQ map is a critical part in giving our customers the best possible experience as they explore the local environment."
"NAVTEQ is excited about this new opportunity that Calabash Technologies is pioneering to deliver relevant, accurate information to tourists so they can have a high quality vacation experience," said Winston Guillory, Senior Vice President, Consumer & Enterprise, NAVTEQ. "We look forward to extending this relationship into other highly desirable tourist locations around the world."
The Calabash World Explorer is currently available for daily rental on St. Thomas, U.S. Virgin Islands with plans for expansion to other popular tourist destinations.
About Calabash Technologies
Calabash Technologies LLLP was founded in 2003 by former Microsoft Program Manager Joseph K. Croney. His vision is to use technology as a personalized gateway to local culture and services, thus providing a more meaningful experience to travelers. Calabash's flagship product, The Calabash World Explorer, was launched in the fall of 2006. It is a hand-held GPS digital travel guide which is the first to combine GPS directions and maps, self- guided audio tours, local music and photos, user reviews, a cultural encyclopedia, and a local shopping directory in one fun, easy-to-use device. The Calabash team is comprised of a talented group of software engineers, content developers, and designers dedicated to creating cutting-edge products which redefine the world of travel. Calabash Technologies is headquartered in the U.S. Virgin Islands, a key destination served by a variety of travel segments.
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