TomTom has announced the start of a beta program for an online route planning service that will allow users to plan trips online and then give users a route to follow even if they don’t have a GPS device. The service will offer routes based on real time and historic information on traffic flows throughout the day.

The service incorporates historic measurements so routes are based on facts rather than estimates. Corrections made to maps by TomTom map share are added to the online service as well. The best part about the routing service is that it is web-based and free of charge. The beta period requires registration on the TomTom site.

“The introduction of the online Route Planner marks an important step in our strategy to make our award-winning navigation available for all users, regardless of the platform that is used”, says Harold Goddijn, TomTom’s Chief Executive Officer. “Users that do not have a navigation device can now also benefit from our high-quality routing before starting their journey, giving them a chance to plan their day better than ever before”.

Via TomTom