[NEWS] TomTom discontinues GPS sales in North America

january 5, 2024 at 1:30 am EST
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In a significant shift reflecting the changing landscape of navigation technology, leading navigation company, TomTom, has announced its decision to cease the sales of its GPS navigators in the United States and Canada. The rise of mobile navigation apps, such as Google Maps, Apple Maps, and Waze, offering real-time traffic data and the convenience of updating maps via internet connectivity, has contributed to this strategic move.

Decline in Traditional GPS Demand
The traditional GPS units have been increasingly overshadowed by the convenience and additional features offered by smartphones. Larger screen sizes and the availability of accurate maps on devices people already own has led to a decline in demand for standalone GPS units.

The Way Forward
While TomTom has halted new orders by removing its GPS products from its website in North America, the devices can still be found at various retailers until stocks last. Despite the shift in business strategy, the company has committed to continue providing software updates and support for existing customers in the U.S. In addition, users are directed to switch to its mobile apps, namely TomTom GO Navigation and TomTom AmiGO.

Uncertain Future in Europe
Interestingly, TomTom’s GPS navigators remain available in Europe. However, it’s uncertain whether the company will eventually exit the GPS market there as well. This decision to stop sales in North America has been described by the company as a ‘business decision,’ with no further details provided.

Will there be new map updates for the USA?

gunnermac wrote:Will there be new map updates for the USA?

Good question

I guess they will (should) honour any current subscriptions etc until they expire and will most probably "End-of-Life" newer devices sooner rather than later so they can then stop updating their maps every quarter as they do now

biggerdave wrote:I guess they will (should) honour any current subscriptions etc until they expire and will most probably "End-of-Life" newer devices sooner rather than later so they can then stop updating their maps every quarter as they do now

No more maps for my TomTom Go 950 GPS devices

dosibox wrote:

biggerdave wrote:I guess they will (should) honour any current subscriptions etc until they expire and will most probably "End-of-Life" newer devices sooner rather than later so they can then stop updating their maps every quarter as they do now

No more maps for my TomTom Go 950 GPS devices

No, "just" no more North American maps

I know TomTom maps are more accurate than the stupid Google map. I've had many couriers trying to find my place using Google Map and they were a long way out.