A new in-vehicle GPS system will be launched in Australia in 2011 that gives drivers directions in a more human way.

Launched by Navteq in the US and Europe last week, the system uses distinctive points of interest and landmarks to give directions.

So instead of saying “turn right in 50 metres”, the system might say “pass the church and turn right at the traffic lights”.

Research be Navteq has shown consumers desire more intuitive and practical directions because they are easier to follow and allows the user to keep their eyes on the road.

The technology also employs a variety of criteria to help optimise when and how particular guidance is presented to consumers.  If it is summer and trees may be obscuring a reference point, or if the object is small or could be missed, it may be by-passed in favour of another more noticeable point.

If none are available, the traditional style of GPS direction will be used.

The system, known as Navteq Natural Guidance was launched at the IFA consumer electronics show in Berlin.

A demonstration can be viewed online.