Is this the end of the road for the portable sat-nav?

Embargoed to 0001 Saturday April 15 File photo dated 11/08/14 of a man using a satellite Navigator in his car. Learner drivers will have to safely use sat navs to pass their driving test as part of a major overhaul of the assessment.
Embargoed to 0001 Saturday April 15 File photo dated 11/08/14 of a man using a satellite Navigator in his car. Learner drivers will have to safely use sat navs to pass their driving test as part of a major overhaul of the assessment.

With smartphones and in-car infotainment becoming ever more sophisticated, it would seem that the days of the portable sat-nav are coming to an end. That's certainly the view of John Lewis, as the major British retailer has decided to stop stocking the units in-store.

According to John Lewis' annual retail report, the once essential accessories are being 'left behind', as built-in units and smartphone apps like Google Maps become the de facto choice for motorists across the country.

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