The Mapbox Navigation SDK 2.0 release candidate is now available for both Android and iOS. Following the public preview in March 2021, Nav SDK 2.0 has grown and matured and is now available to start getting ready for a production deployment for mobile applications in the Google Play and Apple iTunes App Store. 

From origin to destination, the SDK provides an extensive set of features for a thorough navigation experience.  Developers can now take advantage of this next-generation SDK --including a more powerful location engine, enhanced camera functions, 3D buildings, improved localization, user feedback interface, predictive caching and free drive mode.  The Nav SDK includes all the components necessary for a developer to build a complete navigation experience, plus the flexibility required to implement navigation the way your unique use case demands.

Next Generation Maps. The Navigation SDK 2.0 takes full advantage of the integration of the latest v10 map version that allows for 3D environments, navigation camera control, and skylines.  Beyond features, performance has also improved by having a 50% faster start time, 10% less battery consumption, 40% faster map load on mobile devices, and up to 18% less network traffic consumption.

Predictive Ambient Caching: Users no longer have to worry about losing their maps whenever they enter regions with low or interrupted connectivity. With the Navigation SDK 2.0, the application can automatically download maps to the local device based on the user location, direction, and history. If connectivity is lost, the map seamlessly transitions from online to offline mode without any disruption.  

3D Buildings: Create a more intuitive arrival experience for drivers by showing a 3D model of destinations as the driver is approaching the end of their trip. All types of users from gig workers dropping off passengers, couriers taking and delivering packages, or automakers can take advantage of this improved  arrival experience.  This is especially useful for drivers in unfamiliar areas or where buildings along a street or neighborhood resemble each other.

Camera API: Automatically adjust the zoom level and map tilt depending on the current and upcoming maneuvers, speed, and points of interest.  It reduces the amount of interaction the user has to perform to change the zoom level of the map, allowing them to stay focused on the road.

Map Matching: The updated localization engine now provides real-time, on-board map matching with the full road graph — while maintaining the rich context along the path.  In an active driving scenario, the vehicle “puck” smoothly handles any deviations from the route path and remains on a road segment.‍

Route Alerts: Drivers need context to make the appropriate decisions along their drive. New route alerts include toll booths, border crossings, rest and restricted areas and tunnel entrances.

Customer Feedback UI: Drivers can provide feedback during a free drive or active navigation session using the feedback buttons within the user interface. This empowers users to provide input into the quality of their experience. Mapbox updates our services 100,000 times every day, and this key feature results in even faster map improvements.

Mapbox Horizon: Improve overall safety and provide real time intelligence and relevant information about the road ahead. Remains available in public beta through the Nav SDK 2.0.

Pricing: Mapbox added a new billing option for the Nav SDK v2.0. Customers will be able to choose between an unlimited usage model and a per trip model according to their use case. Get started with pay as you go pricing with no required long term commitments.

The new version 2.0 of the Mapbox Navigation SDK has significantly enhanced the features, performance, and capabilities you need to navigate the world. Download the new SDK here and start benefiting from everything the new service has to offer.