Panasonic Avionics has released a range of new features for Arc, its in-flight map platform that has been ordered by 25 airlines. The Arc v2.0 release includes live data capabilities and new ways to control the map experience.
New, advanced functions for Arc v2.0 include Arc Weather, a live, data-enabled feature with regularly updated weather data, presented both globally and specific to the flight’s destination, as well as any other locations the passenger chooses. The Arc Studio feature is a web-based tool that enables designers to update and manage map data such as place names, landmarks, or points of interest; Panasonic says that future capabilities will include authoring and deploying new templates for map content and views.
Arc v2.0 also includes information for Islamic passengers, with an updated Mecca pointer, and relevant timings for each day during Ramadan. Finally, the enhanced city guides enable customers to incorporate new design elements into points of interest and create custom articles to drive destination engagement and bolster partnerships.
Panasonic Avionics has also revealed the features being developed for the next major Arc release in 2023, including Arc 3D for handsets, a fully native application designed to deliver the Arc experience in hand-held form. A further release will enable an Arc fully-functioning interactive map experience to be designed specifically for Panasonic’s Premium Handset.
Another upcoming feature is Arc Flight Simulator. Using the seatback IFE display or handset, passengers will be able to take simulated control of their flight, navigate the world, and play flight-related games.