TomTom to acquire Tele Atlas

In a surprise move, TomTom today announced the intention to acquire their map data provider TeleAtlas. A joint press release from the two Dutch companies hints at the benefits to come from TomTom's Map Share program:

The combination will significantly improve user experience and create other benefits for the customers and partners of both companies, including:

• More accurate navigation information - TomTom has developed technologies that enable TomTom’s installed user base of over 10 million GPS devices to effectively operate as map surveyors in an automatic and simple way. The integration of this feedback into the map production process will greatly improve the quality and timeliness of Tele Atlas map data;
• Improved coverage - The combination significantly improves all aspects of digital map maintenance, enrichment and creation enabling the companies to expand coverage faster; and
• New and enhanced features – The companies will be able to offer new features such as daily map updates and intelligent routing.

An FAQ from Tele Atlas states that they will continue to operate as a separate company and license their map data to customers other than TomTom.

Connectivity, and the ensuing benefits, are going to bring major changes to the personal navigation device industry. TomTom's Map Share and the anticipated nationwide roll out of the Dash Express make me wonder what Garmin's next play in this arena will be.