The local GPS device market might go up to EUR 5.5 mln this year, as Romanians buy more expensive products that offer more features.

Romanian GPS navigation users want free map updates, larger screens and maps with better coverage, according to Mio Romania.

GPS device manufacturer Mio has recently launched a new map update for GPS equipment. The Lifetime Map Update Service allows users to update maps for free, up to four times a year.

The preinstalled maps on Mio GPS devices currently cover 92% of major roads in Romania and 87% of cities. In Europe, the gears include all the main roads and 80% of cities.

Mio has a 30% market share in Romania. Its main competitors are HTC and Garmin, as well as local brands such as Evolio and Smailo.

AROBS Transilvania Software distributes Mio products in Romania. AROBS was established in Cluj-Napoca in 1998.

Irina Popescu, irina.popescu@romania-insider.com