Strategy Analysts has announced that its latest research has shown that in 2009 worldwide GPS smartphone shipments will hit 77 million units. Most of the major smartphones on the market feature GPS like the T-Mobile G1, iPhone 3GS, and Palm Pre.

The adoption of GPS smartphones is spreading thanks to widespread consumer acceptance of PND devices for card and because mobile navigation services are getting better. There is also an increase in navigation applications from handset makers.

Joanne Blight, Navigation Director at Strategy Analytics, said, "We forecast worldwide GPS smartphone shipments will grow a healthy 34 percent from 57 million units in 2008 to 77 million units in 2009. GPS smartphones, such as the Nokia N97 and Apple iPhone, are a high-growth segment that continues to expand even during the current, tough economic times.”

Via Strategy Analytics