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Full duplex communication car navigation emerging in Korea

May 10, 2009 15:09

Most of you should know that WiBro (WiMAX) technology developed in Korea and the government and local WiBro network carrier KT (Korea Telecom) has been eager to find related services to expand its usage in the country. Since WiBro coverage is limited compared with the 3G network, the impact of WiBro hasn't really been taking off. However, the WiBro market has increased after the Netbook market developed and Netbook manufacturers started to co-promote their products with WiBro carriers at a special cost based on a one- to two-year operator contract.

WiBro-adopted Navi UI by iNavi

Meanwhile, KT has started discussions with local car navigation manufacturers to adopt the WiBro network solution for car navigation, so the device will have full duplex communication ability and various features and services that can yield additional profits for manufacturers and offer convenient services to consumers.

Most navigation units contain similar features like DMB (mobile TV), movie, music, photo viewer and games, just like the usual PMP features. So in order to differentiate with other competitors to get a more market share, car navigation devices have to offer a WiBro service.


Bluetooth-adopted car navi by SK

Actually, before the WiBro service was adopted for car navigation, the Bluetooth solution was the latest and most advanced solution supported by a local giant called SK. SK released a new type of navigation based on Bluetooth and called it the Digital Hub. The Digital Hub navigation unit has the ability to play MP3s, UCCs and audiobooks, in addition to typical navigation features. The contents are downloadable from offline SK gas stations via the Bluetooth network. Once you set up your navigation unit, it will automatically update the content when you visit any SK gas station to fill up on petrol. Most of the content gets updated quickly within 5 minutes.

However, this service is already facing tough challenges by the WiBro solution. The latter allows for mobile Internet connectivity while on the road in your car. You can update most map data via the Internet connections and the navigation will have features showing real-time traffic monitors and CCTVs on the roads that you are going to pass by on your way. Having online access in the car means you can have Internet radio and UCC streaming services.

This full duplex communication service will allow manufacturers to think up new location-based services for car navigation. And car navigation units are selling under contract to consumers since WiBro is a paid service. Car navigation manufacturers can increase their profits and WiBro carriers are able to expand their pie, while consumers can enjoy lower-cost but more powerful and newer car navigation services. What are great deal here. I should consider upgrading my car navigation to the new WiBro-powered car navigation soon.

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