MFM had been invited to compile Papago X2 maps. We will be given Papago's official compiler and full range of tools. We will have the freedom and control as to when and how to release our Papago maps. Our mapping team is excited with this proposal because of several benefit.
Major Benefits
- Sharing our hard work with non-Garmin users
- Create more competition for Garmin which will hopefully result in better price and features from Garmin
- Allows us to start accumulating data for the newest navigation features such as lane assist, junction view and 3d buildings. When our Garmin compiler supports these new features in the future, we already have the data
However, due to the different business philosophy between Papago and Garmin, I need to clarify several matters to avoid any misunderstanding later.
- While Garmin offers the combination of hardware, software and maps to buyers. Papago is purely the navigation software which is available for licensing.
- To protect their on map data, Papago licensee usually requests for special versions where their devices can only read their own map. In this case, I am not sure whether our maps will be able to be used by buyers of devices sold by these companies
- Our philosophy is making free maps available for any major navigation platform and we do not side any particular party. We will compile Papago maps for any party that approaches us
- I had been assure that the Papago maps that we compile will be able to run on most legal Papago devices and softwares. However, at the current moment, I have no way to verify this assurance. So if we go ahead, we go ahead in good faith.
Your comments are much appreciated.
