Tuesday, 2 May 2006

Microsoft Releases MapPoint 2006

Microsoft Corp. has released MapPoint 2006, a software based mapping solution that comes in two offerings: a stand-alone software package as well as one that includes both the MapPoint 2006 software and a new GPS locator hardware kit.

Microsoft claims MapPoint 2006 can help customers improve decision-making capabilities and increase new business opportunities through the use of maps and geographical information, enabling better analysis, visualisation and communication of business information. It also enhances its usefulness for mobile information workers by adding rich new GPS integration and driver guidance capabilities so that users can make the most out of time spent away from the office.

"The MapPoint desktop application has led the way in providing low-cost, versatile mapping solutions for customers in the office and on the go," said Thomas Bailey, director of marketing and engineering for the Virtual Earth business unit at Microsoft.

New features to the mobile worker include updated geographic data and a new GPS task pane that uses information from connected, compatible GPS devices to display current location, speed and traveling direction. Wi-Fi positioning is also available through a computer’s wireless network capabilities and the Microsoft Location Finder, which accesses a database of known Wi-Fi access points to determine a user’s location. MapPoint 2006 is priced at USD 299 for the software and USD 349 with a GPS locater.