System and method for storing and using information associated with geographic locations of interest to a mobile user

Abstract

A system ( ) for storing and using information associated with geographic locations of interest to a mobile user comprises a mobile apparatus ( ) and a remote apparatus ( ). The mobile apparatus accepts and transmits information associated with a mobile user's geographic position. The remote apparatus ( ) receives the transmitted information, stores the information along with data indicative of the position and time as a waypoint, and allows the user to retrieve and manipulate waypoints. The system is preferably realized as a vehicle information system ( ) that allows a vehicle user to store waypoints descriptive of different locations encountered during travel. Each waypoint includes the geographic position of its corresponding location, the time, and may include appended information such as a voice message or a picture. The waypoints are stored in a remote server accessible from both the vehicle and an auxiliary apparatus such as a standard telephone ( ) or a personal computer ( ). After retrieving a stored waypoint, the user has a number of options, such as receiving navigation instructions, modifying the information associated with the waypoint, and sharing the waypoint with a third party. A method ( ) efficiently implements the aforementioned functions and other convenient features.