Map Update Prices

[trippclark]

I have not updated my maps, and maybe I am reading the info wrong, but if not, the map updates seem to me to be way, way out of line with what would seem to be a practical value (even with the current 30% discount sale). I bought my TomTom One for a bit over $100 after rebate, preloaded with USA/Canada. I am seeing that maps are updated several times annually and the cost is about $80 a pop! That seems crazy. If one were to update each time a new version came out -- say quarterly -- you'd pay over $300 a year for maps HUH??? It'd me much cheaper to buy a new GPS every year. It seems that a more practical model would be an annual subscription in the $50 range to keep your maps current . . . or am I mis-reading something and these prices are for annual subscriptions.

 

[Gilbert]

I have not updated my maps, and maybe I am reading the info wrong, but if not, the map updates seem to me to be way, way out of line with what would seem to be a practical value (even with the current 30% discount sale). I bought my TomTom One for a bit over $100 after rebate, preloaded with USA/Canada. I am seeing that maps are updated several times annually and the cost is about $80 a pop! That seems crazy. If one were to update each time a new version came out -- say quarterly -- you'd pay over $300 a year for maps HUH??? It'd me much cheaper to buy a new GPS every year. It seems that a more practical model would be an annual subscription in the $50 range to keep your maps current . . . or am I mis-reading something and these prices are for annual subscriptions.

There are many ways to look at it... Some computer inkjet printers have their cartridges priced as high as a new printer or close to it. Unlike the printer whose ink cartridge is empty, you don't absolutely need to update your map quarterly. AFAIK, TT is the only gps brand that offers new maps that frequently and, with the 30 day map update guarantee, ensures you have the latest map when you purchase your TT.

Then you have to consider some folks whose location is not well covered with the current map and may wish to have the newer map that now covers his location better. Some newer maps may have new features such as speed limits, ALG, IQ routing etc. that some may consider worth the cost of the upgrade vs the cost of a new higher-end gps.

I tend to agree with you concerning a yearly subscription or even a 2-3 year subscription could be nice.

 

[Michael Quinlan]

I'm not trying to knock anyone who DOES update their maps quarterly, but I don't see that it's worthwhile at the current update pricing. If an economical subscription plan were made available, I'm sure there would be plenty of users subscribing. If the map updates were not device-specific - allowing you to upgrade your device and transfer the subscription to the new device - this would be even more attractive, making users more comfortable with longer-term subscriptions, and making it more likely that their next GPS device would also be a TomTom.

There would always be those who don't want to feel "locked in" to a certain device or manufacturer by a subscription, but I think a subscription model would be a win for both TomTom and many of their users.

 

[Blackbeard]

The Latest Map Guarantee, to me, means I'm guaranteed to get upset with such unpredictable garbage. I have purchased a refurbished (from TomTom) One and now have what I believe is a new XLS. Neither, so far, will allow me to use the LMG. TomTom people just seem to say "Too bad". Both were in TomTom sealed boxes.

There really needs to be a more refined rule defining what LMG applies to. And it needs to be publicly stated instead of what the ads seem to imply. Shading advertising - just my opinion.

 

[will381796]

You should have no problem getting your new maps. I had no problem using the HOME software. If you have problems with the HOME software, then email support (though slow) can provide the solution. Or, if you don't prefer to wait days for them to reply, then you can call them. Just have your dated proof of purchase available so that they can verify that you're within the 30 days.

I agree that the map prices are ridiculous. The only reason I will purchase a new map is when the version 8 maps are released which will hopefully give my TT720 the IQ Routing and Advanced Lane Guidance features. Otherwise, it will be probably 2 years before I jump through the hoops of buying a map.

 

[Gilbert]

For me, the biggest problem concerning buying a new map is knowing what I can expect new from it. IQ routing and ALG may sound fine but how practical is it for me locally? It may exist for some locations but how much data do they have for me in Montreal (you may substitute your home town...). Is ther a single static map in my area or do I need to drive down to NY to see a single one? How much data do the maps have for the highways I frequent for IQ routing to be effective for my own needs? I don't care if IQ routing is effective in SF if they don't have any data where I live and likely to drive within a year.

This is where the information about updating to a new map is lacking. Sometimes, one has a bit of information which are too often very vague: 80,000 km has been added to the continental map and this may represent 0.04% of what the map already covers and does not inform about even your state/province of residence. Maybe not a km in your state has been added and the changes are only those obtained with MapShare updates which you already have?

I usually kept my most frequently used paper maps around 5 years or so but have some that are 30 years old that I seldom use but keep as a reference for looking up a foreign city I never heard about before and wonder about its location. With Google maps, I use paper maps less and less.