RIM recently released BlackBerry Traffic, which helps you monitor traffic conditions, find alternate routes, and communicate your ETA to the people waiting for you. It is a simple application that uses BlackBerry Maps for navigation, and adds some really useful features that help you get to your destination quickly and safely.
Interface and Use
When you launch BlackBerry Traffic and open the My Places screen, click the Add Place button to add a destination. Once you've added a Place, choose it from the list of places on the My Places screen, and BlackBerry Traffic will use your BlackBerry's GPS and the BlackBerry Maps application to calculate the distance, travel time, and identify any accidents or traffic problems you may encounter. The app will show your ETA, and also provides turn-by-turn directions to your destination.
Once BlackBerry Traffic has calculated the travel time and route to your destination, you can click the Share button and send your ETA to contacts of your choosing. This is a great way to let your coworkers, boss, family, or friends know that you are on your way to meet them and when you should arrive.
BlackBerry Traffic is a very quick application and is very easy to use. The interface is simple, it works well with the Torch's touchscreen, and the application calculates routes and ETAs very quickly. The turn-by-turn directions are also useful, but using it is a safety hazard, because the application does not have voice navigation or accept voice input. It also requires you to install BlackBerry Maps.
Conclusions
Share My ETA
Research In MotionPros
- Calculates routes and ETAs quickly
- Provides turn-by-turn directions
- Free
Cons
- Does not have voice navigation
- Requires BlackBerry Maps
- Does not accept voice commands
- Will not replace a full-fledged navigation app like AT&T Navigator
BlackBerry Traffic is a nice application to have if you do not have AT&T Navigator or a similar app. It makes good use of BlackBerry Maps, and allows you to notify people of your ETA, but its lack of voice commands and voice navigation will force you to pull over to actually make use of the application.