New Minn Kota Apps for i-Pilot and i-Pilot Link Allow Anglers to Operate Trolling Motors from iOS and Android Devices
Bluetooth®-enabled trolling motors allow for precise boat control through the convenient, familiar interface of phones and tablets 
Racine, Wisconsin (2/15 /2017) –Minn Kota® is introducing a revolutionary app technology for trolling motors equipped with i-Pilot® and iPilot® Link™. The free apps allow anglers to navigate and control their trolling motor via their smartphones or other mobile devices by communicating with the trolling motor via Bluetooth®, and also allows users to accept software upgrades wherever they have data coverage.
According to Minn Kota brand manager Brad Henry, “Our goal is always to help anglers catch more fish, and precise boat control is critical to success. The new Minn Kota apps help make that easier than ever. From setting speed and direction to activating Spot-Lock and our new Spot-Lock Jog feature, we are putting a host of features into the familiar, convenient interface of phones and tablets.”
Instant fingertip navigation
Minn Kota talked to avid anglers and loaded the new apps with the commands they use most on the water. They include basic Propeller On/Off, Left/Right Steering, Speed Control, AutoPilot activation, and deployment of Spot-Lock and Spot-Lock Jog – which keep anglers glued to a spot even in high winds and strong current. The apps also offer a High-Speed Bypass feature, which immediately boosts the motor to high speed if the angler needs to move the boat quickly.
Activate software updates on the water
Since Minn Kota is continually expanding and evolving its technology, there are times when software updates become available. With the new apps, anglers are alerted that an update has been released. They can then activate that upgrade, even while they’re out on the water fishing. “Since integrating Bluetooth into select Minn Kota models, it has opened up a new frontier on upgrades and functionality. On-the-fly software updating is just one of many benefits,” Henry explains.
An intuitive interface
The Minn Kota apps for i-Pilot and i-Pilot Link feature an easy-to-use screen layout designed to mimic Minn Kota’s handheld remotes that anglers are already accustomed to. The navigational icons are the same, and the response time is immediate. Some anglers have reported using the app as their primary control or as a back-up to their wireless remote. Still others enjoy using their foot pedal for control. Ultimately it comes down to angler preference, and Minn Kota delivers options for anglers to choose how they control their trolling motor.
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Pairing the mobile device to the trolling motor is easy
After downloading the Minn Kota i-Pilot or iPilot Link app to an iOS or Android device, an angler then “pairs” it with a Bluetooth-enabled Minn Kota trolling motor. The push-button task is fast and simple.
Compatible Minn Kota models
The new apps communicate with the new 2017 line of Bluetooth enabled i-Pilot and i-Pilot Link trolling motors, including Minn Kota’s new Ulterra, Terrova, PowerDrive (i-Pilot only) and Ultrex models.
For more information call Minn Kota at 800-227-6433 or visit MinnKotaMotors.com/i-Pilot-App.
About Johnson Outdoors Marine Electronics, Inc.
Johnson Outdoors Marine Electronics, Inc. is a wholly owned subsidiary of Johnson Outdoors and consists of the Humminbird®, Minn Kota® and Cannon® brands. Humminbird® is a leading global innovator and manufacturer of marine electronics products including fishfinders, multifunction displays, autopilots, ice flashers and premium cartography products. Minn Kota® is the world’s leading manufacturer of electric trolling motors, as well as a complete line of Talon® shallow-water anchors, battery chargers and marine accessories. Cannon® is the leader in controlled-depth fishing and includes a full line of downrigger products and accessories.
About Johnson Outdoors
JOHNSON OUTDOORS is a leading global outdoor recreation company that turns ideas into adventure with innovative, top-quality products. The company designs, manufactures and markets a portfolio of winning, consumer-preferred brands across four categories: Watercraft, Marine Electronics, Diving and Outdoor Gear. Johnson Outdoors’ familiar brands include, among others: Old Town® canoes and kayaks; Ocean Kayak™ and Necky® kayaks; Carlisle®paddles; Extrasport® personal flotation devices; Minn Kota® fishing motors, batteries and anchors; Cannon® downriggers; Humminbird® marine electronics and digital charts; SCUBAPRO® dive equipment; Silva® compasses; Jetboil® outdoor cooking systems; and Eureka!®camping and hiking equipment.
The Bluetooth® word mark and logos are registered trademarks owned by Bluetooth SIG, Inc.
