Microsoft Releases MapPoint 2006

Microsoft Corp. (WA, USA) released MapPoint 2006, a business mapping software. 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. MapPoint 2006 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.

New features delivered 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 travelling direction. Also, driving directions for Windows XP users determine location from a connected GPS device and combine it with route information to deliver voice and text direction information. 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.