ABI Research analyst Dominique Bonte indicated today approximately 42.3 million personal navigation devices (PND) will be shipped in 2010.

Recently, PND manufacturers are facing increased competition from GPS-equipped smartphones, and some manufacturers have found their sales of PNDs declining, commented ABI Research. Free map access from Google and Nokia on mobile phones has also caused a fall in sales and average selling prices.

However, ABI believes that “Stand-alone PNDs still have an advantage over smartphones,” said research associate Khin Sandi Lynn. “Their larger screens provide users with a clearer view that is also easier to use while driving. Although volumes are dropping, for automotive use standalone PNDs will remain the preferred choice for many users.”