DoCoMo partners with Pioneer on smartphone-based navigation

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NTT Docomo Inc and Pioneer Corp are collaborating to enable smartphones to function as full-fledged wireless navigation devices compatible with the “docomo Drive Net” navigation service in Japan.

Under the agreement, a wireless car-navigation application for smartphones, docomo Drive Net powered by Carrozzeria, will be developed by Pioneer and offered by Docomo. Pioneer also will develop an in-car cradle for smartphones to provide positional information and eco-minded route guidance. In addition, users will be able to download Pioneer’s Smart Loop application for enhanced route guidance based on traffic conditions. The application will also enable smartphone users to use Docomo Drive Net’s map and location-based information, such as tourism facilities and real-time parking availability.

The agreement will combine DOCOMO’s content-development capabilities and systems for mobile broadband information transmission and payments with Pioneer’s in-car navigation telematics technologies and in-car peripheral development capabilities.