TomTom replaces Google with launch of local search engine for devices

Dutch navigation device manufacturer TomTom has announced it will drop Google as its main provider of local search to launch its own search engine called TomTom Places, to provide information on hotels and local businesses from its navigation units.

The move will see it phase out local Google services but will not drop Google’s search entirely. It will see TomTom Places become the default local search provider for the company’s new range of navigation devices.

TomTom Places will be available in Germany, The Netherlands, Belgium, Denmark and Portugal, followed by a progressive roll out to other countries across Europe and the U.S which will be completed by the end of the year.