In the world of digital maps there are only 2 major players: Tele Atlas and Navteq.

Both are in the middle of being purchased (Tele Atlas by TomTom, and Navteq by Nokia).

As is common with these kind of purchases, the European Union takes a very close look at things and either gives their blessing, or tells them to make some concessions. Apparently TomTom may have done enough to please the EU, as Reuters reports that "sources" claim they’ll get approval.

BRUSSELS (Reuters) - TomTom, Europe’s biggest maker of car navigation devices, is expected to win unconditional European Commission approval to buy its main supplier Tele Atlas, industry and other sources say.

The Commission’s decision is expected to answer critics’ concerns that approval would leave TomTom in a position to hurt rival makers of navigation devices that also buy from Tele Atlas.

TomTom shares jumped following the news. They led gainers in the DJ Stoxx European technology index and were up 9.4 percent at 22.59 euros by 1104 GMT (7:04 a.m. EDT). Tele Atlas shares were 6 percent higher at 27 euros, 3 euros below TomTom’s offer price.

What does this mean for you and I? Not much really; it just means that TomTom will be even closer to the source of their maps.

The days of GPS devices with 2 or 3 year old maps is over; people are demanding newer content, and up to date points of interest, and this purchase should ensure that TomTom can deliver on that.

It’s amazing to see how fast TomTom has grown in the past 10 years. I remember when they were called Palmtop Software and were just a tiny company outside Amsterdam Airport where they made very basic map software for my Psion PDA as well as some games and a very cool Michelin restaurant guide. Their old domain is still around, and points to TomTom.com…

Source: Reuters