Just when you thought satellite navigation couldn't get any more efficient than it already is, personal navigation software developer NDrive announced the next generation of mapping technology, which features real life photo images for a comprehensive list of UK cities, instead of traditional 2D/3D animated maps.

The photo mapping system offers a bird's eye view and four diagonal perspectives, automatically choosing the most effective angle for you while navigating. The first devices in question to feature this new software are the NDrive G280 and G800.

You're provided with UK and Ireland Tele Atlas 2008 maps by default, though there are European maps available that feature photo mapping in major cities of Portugal, France, Spain and Italy. Should the system prove successful without affecting usability or clarity, we'd be surprised if it doesn't become the new standard in mapping software across the board.

The G280 and G800 are available now at www.smartdevicesdirect.com for £199 and £315 respectively.