Japanese navigation app NAVITIME has introduced a feature called 'Alternate Route Map' that uses real driving data to solve the age-old driver dilemma: is the highway or local road faster? The tool provides real-time route comparisons, helping drivers save time and money.
Japanese navigation app NAVITIME has launched a new feature called ‘Alternate Route Map’ (迂回ルートマップ) designed to solve a common driver dilemma: whether to take the toll highway or the free local road. The feature, integrated into the existing ‘Traffic Information Map’ (渋滞情報マップ by NAVITIME), analyzes actual driving data from millions of users to display the fastest route in real time.
How does the Alternate Route Map work?
The feature collects real-time traffic data from NAVITIME users and analyzes it to determine the least congested path. The map then color-codes alternate routes: green for faster options and red for slower ones. For example, if the highway is heavily congested, the map may show that a local road is actually quicker, and vice versa. This allows drivers to make an informed decision based on current conditions.
Why is this feature important for drivers?
In Japan, holiday periods like Golden Week (ゴールデンウィーク) see millions of people traveling between cities, leading to severe traffic jams. Drivers often face a choice between paying highway tolls or enduring congestion on free roads. The Alternate Route Map removes the guesswork, helping drivers save both time and money. According to NAVITIME, by guiding drivers to less congested routes, the feature can help distribute traffic more evenly, reducing overall congestion.
When and where is the feature available?
The Alternate Route Map is currently available within the NAVITIME app on iOS and Android. Users can access it through the ‘Traffic Information Map’ section, where alternate route options appear automatically when congestion is detected. The feature is currently limited to Japan, and the company has not announced plans for expansion to other countries.
Is the feature free?
The Alternate Route Map is available in the free version of the NAVITIME app. However, some advanced features may require a paid subscription. Users are advised to check the subscription details within the app.
How to activate the feature?
Simply update the NAVITIME app to the latest version, then open the ‘Traffic Information Map’ (渋滞情報マップ) section. Alternate route options will appear automatically when congestion is detected.
Key Facts
- Feature Name: Alternate Route Map (迂回ルートマップ)
- Core Service: Traffic Information Map (渋滞情報マップ by NAVITIME)
- Purpose: Solve the highway vs. local road dilemma
- Mechanism: Analyzes actual driving data to determine the fastest route
- Availability: Japan only, on iOS and Android
- Relevance: Especially useful during Golden Week holidays
FAQ
Is the feature available outside Japan?
Currently, the feature is only available in Japan, as it is integrated into the Japanese version of the NAVITIME app. The company has not announced plans to expand to other countries.
Does the feature require a paid subscription?
The Alternate Route Map is available in the free version of the NAVITIME app. However, some advanced features may require a paid subscription. Check the app’s subscription details for more information.
How do I activate the Alternate Route Map?
Update the NAVITIME app to the latest version, then open the ‘Traffic Information Map’ section. Alternate route options will appear automatically when congestion is detected.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the feature available outside Japan?
Currently, the feature is only available in Japan, as it is integrated into the Japanese version of the NAVITIME app. The company has not announced plans to expand to other countries.
Does the feature require a paid subscription?
The Alternate Route Map is available in the free version of the NAVITIME app. However, some advanced features may require a paid subscription. Check the app's subscription details for more information.
How do I activate the Alternate Route Map?
Update the NAVITIME app to the latest version, then open the 'Traffic Information Map' section. Alternate route options will appear automatically when congestion is detected.
Sources
- Best Car Web (JP) — 高速vs一般道どっちが早い？ NAVITIME新機能で渋滞回避
