ALK CoPilot Live app for iPhone

The Apple iPhone takes an all-in-one approach to gadgets – and owners can now ditch their sat-nav, too. ALK has launched its new CoPilot Live navigation application for the device.

It’s available from Apple’s Internet-based app store, so all you have to do is log on and download the 250MB software. We popped ours into a Griffin Window Seat (www.griffintechnology.com) to get the best from it.

We fired up the programme when we climbed into our car, but it took a while to locate any satellites. However, all the street maps are stored on the phone, so there was no need to buy any extra hardware, or monthly fees.

The iPhone took 30 seconds to calculate our test route, and guided us using voice commands as well as clear and easy-to-understand mapping.

We preferred to view the screen in portrait mode, but it can be rotated to landscape.

If you’re looking to get sat-nav on your iPhone, the CoPilot software is a fast way to do it – just don’t expect to be able to speak to anyone while following directions, as the application quits when you get a call.

 * Contact: www.alk.eu.com/copilot/iphone

 * Problems? No mount included, talks over music, slow start-up.

 * So why buy? Quick screen rotation, clear route guidance, simple to operate, no monthly fee.