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Magellan
The GPS navigation brand that put satellite mapping on the dashboard — still making devices as a MiTAC company
Active — Magellan was an early GPS pioneer that grew into a leading maker of consumer navigation devices. Its navigation business was acquired by MiTAC International in 2008, and the Magellan brand continues to make GPS receivers, dashboard units and outdoor navigation gear today.
Magellan emerged in the 1980s as a pioneer in satellite-based navigation, building some of the first handheld GPS receivers and later leading the consumer market for car navigation. Through the 1990s and 2000s, Magellan devices helped make GPS mapping a mainstream technology.
The company's fortunes became tied to the crowded consumer-navigation market, and in 2008 its navigation business was acquired by MiTAC International, a Taiwanese manufacturer. The Magellan brand survived the deal and continued to ship navigation products.
Today Magellan still exists as a brand making automotive and outdoor GPS devices. It is no longer the standalone American company it once was, but its name remains attached to active navigation products across a range of categories.
Quick facts
- Founded
- 1986 (as GPS pioneer)
- Products
- GPS receivers, car navigation
- Acquired
- By MiTAC International, 2008
- Base
- San Dimas, California
- Status
- Active brand under MiTAC
- Now
- Automotive and outdoor GPS devices
Sources
- Magellan Navigation - Wikipedia — Wikipedia (2026-09-05)
- Our Brands — MiTAC Holdings Corporation (2026-09-05)