Vodafone UK have launched a consumer version of their Telmap-powered mobile satnav product, hitherto available only to business customers.  For £5 ($9.83) a month, plus data charges, customers will get access to 3D mapping, live traffic alerts, points of interest apparently numbering in the millions as well as visual and audio direction prompts.  The Telmap system will be compatible with three Nokia handsets – the N95, N95 8GB and 6110 – and the BlackBerry Pearl 8110, although buyers of the RIM phone will get twelve months satnav access included. 

Surprisingly, this is the first operator-branded consumer mobile navigation service; up until now, satnav on mobile handsets had required third-party apps, although some were supplied and supported through the carriers themselves.  The system offers directions for both in-car and pedestrian use.