Traffic Prediction Software Debuts

by Amy Gilroy -- TWICE, 3/27/2007

Orlando, Fla. — For the first time, consumers will be able to predict traffic for up to five days in advance with new Inrix traffic software launched today at the CTIA show.

The software will initially work with Windows Mobile devices, but is expected to be available on personal navigation devices (PNDs) and other devices (such as a BlackBerry) as early as this summer, said Inrix president/CEO Bryan Mistele.

The new Inrix Traffic for Windows Mobile takes into account weather forecasts, school calendars, local concerts and conventions and other factors in a given area. It uses "statistical analysis models" of the historical effects of similar events on local traffic to predict the impact they will have over the next five days. Then it combines this data with real-time traffic incident reports to offer real and "predictive traffic" in 60 markets, expected to increase to 91 markets in the coming months, Mistele said.

"You can scroll forward and pick any time in the next five days and see what traffic will look like … Consumers can answer questions they never could before, such as, ‘What time should I leave work to get to my kid’s T-ball game in time?’" Mistele added.

The Traffic for Windows Mobile software is now available at Handango.com for $39.95