True Heading announced the release of its Seapilot Navigation app for Windows mobile devices today.
The Seapilot Navigation app had previously been available for Apple and Android devices. The app is now available for free download on the Windows Phone Store. Early Windows Store reviews, however, indicate required in-app purchases. The product's fine print indicates a free 36-hour trail period "with all functionality and all charts available for evaluation before purchase." Users also complained about a lack of maps for US coastal waters.
The app displays S-57 vector chart data on its proprietary chart engine. When used with a direct GPS connection, the app shows position and presents up-to-the-minute AIS data on portable devices.
The app is also capable of displaying current position information, course and speed vectors for AIS targets, and in-app weather data for increased situational awareness. It allows boaters to set routes and waypoints, mark objects, and assess the bearing and range between plotted points and the vessel.
Designed for autonomous navigation, charts are downloaded directly to a device, so Internet access is not required while on the water.
“We are proud to announce that the long-awaited Windows Phone 8 version of our popular Seapilot Navigation app is now available,” said Jens Johansson, CEO, Seapilot. “The Seapilot app can be used on all three major platforms– Apple iOS, Android and Windows 8. We can now bring vital safety data about local shipping traffic and weather to almost all mobile users with our powerful navigation software.”
Since its launch in 2011, Seapilot has evolved from an exclusive iPad app with only Swedish charts, to a universal app for iOS, Android and Windows 8 mobile devices, with charts in vectorized S-57 format for most of northern Europe, the U.S. and Canada.
