SPOT GPS tracker for the adventurous

SPOT GPS tracker for the adventurous

So you put a couple of AA lithium batteries thing and then you start hiking and the folks back home can follow your trip up Mount Everest. There are 4 buttons on this little bugger, Help, ON/OFF, OK/Check, and 911.

The last one does exactly what you think it does, it contacts emergency services for you without the need for a cell tower. The device itself is waterproof, floatable, altitude-proof up to 21k feet, and freeze proof up to negative 40 degrees Fahrenheit.

Part of the device’s features is that with the $100 yearly service you can send your position back to an unlimited number of buddies, you just have to add them to the list before you take off. The device is $170 and there is an optional additional $50 yearly service charge that will get you noticeably more frequent position updates, lets say, every 10 minutes. Also, if you do wind up having to hit the 911 button, it will give those signals priority over everything else and will continue sending out the message for as long as possible, which is about 7 days when fully charged, hopefully you’re not dead by then.

(Via SlashGear.)

Mio and Qualcomm to merge GPS, real-time traffic, and cellphone

Mio and Qualcomm to merge GPS, real-time traffic, and cellphone

In case you missed it, the biggest trend in GPS navigators at the moment is real-time, two-way data feeds for traffic updates. There's the Dash Express of course, and TomTom's ONE XL HD Traffic GPS navigator with real-time traffic feeds provided over Vodafone's GSM network. Now Mio is looking for a piece of that action with some help from Qualcomm. The collaboration brings Qualcomm's QST1100 chipset to the mix for real-time traffic updates (presumably two-way, or why bother), voice calling, search, and the always intriguing, 'more.' Details on the chipset are few. We do know that it features assisted-GPS, Standalone-GPS and gpsOneXTRA Assistance technology. How very marketingy. While no date for a device launch was provided, we have a funny feeling that one of MIO's prototypes spotted at CES or perhaps that Qualcomm reference design is due for mass assembly sometime soon.

(Via Engadget CELLS.)

Holux M241 review

Holux M241 review

The mini GPS tracker from Holux which we announced back in December 2007 is apparently called M241 and it just got an extended review from Richard’s Tech Reviews.

Holux M241 seems to have performed well but the reviewer had some issues with the battery life and the software that is provided with this GPS receiver / data logger.

Holux M241 is available for only $76 on Amazon. Not bad for a such a GPS receiver with an LCD screen.

(Via NaviGadget.)

pathfinder from Korean MediaCanvas

pathfinder from Korean MediaCanvas

Korean MediaCanvas had this GPS navigation system on display at CES 2008, simply called Pathfinder.

Pathfinder has a small body - even smaller than most PDAs. It only measures 2.3″ x 4.4″ x 0.77″ and has a 2.7″ TFT LCD touch screen with 320x240 resolution. Thanks to the small screen the Li-Ion battery can last upto 8 hours; something we’re not used to see on most sat nav systems on the market today.

Pathfinder comes with a built-in 2GB memory and uses a 12 channel GPS receiver.

We do not know if/when this will be available in the U.S. but if it did, it would definitely be popular among those who wants a GPS navigation system that would easily fit in a pocket.

(Via NaviGadget.)

Supa S1200G GPS system

Supa S1200G GPS system

Supa has a new GPS navigation system in town - the S1200G. This device can be hooked up to a special cradle that comes with its own SIM card as well as a separate rechargeable battery. The S1200G is powered by a Freescale MX21 266Mhz processor and Microsoft's Windows CE 5.0 operating system, bringing together a 4.3? touch screen display, the fabled SiRFStar III receiver, a 1300mAh Li-Polymer battery, and an SD memory card slot. No idea what the GSM cradle is meant for, but a missing microphone shows that the S1200G was not meant to make phone calls. There is also no word on whether Supa's S1200G will hit the US market - only time will be able to tell.

(Via UberGizmo, the Gadgets News Blog.)

HP iPAQ 310 Travel Companion

HP iPAQ 310 Travel Companion

The HP iPAQ 310 tries to be fifteen different things in one, including a GPS receiver, PDA, MP3 player, video player, handheld gaming device, and more. Sadly, it’s a jack-of-all-trades device that is not very good at any of these things. We’d cut it some slack if just the GPS worked as expected, but sadly even that functionality is plagued with issues. The overall main issue with this product is that regardless of what feature you are trying to use, it is not user friendly, and in most cases reading the manual won’t help since it’s remarkably incomplete and lacking information on a wide array of topics.

(Via Digital Trends - Most Recent Reviews.)

new name in GPS navigation market: Empower

new name in GPS navigation market: Empower

Today Empower Technologies Corporation announced the launch of three new GPS navigation systems for the North American market.

All three models come with a 4.3″ touch screen and have bluetooth capabilities for hands free calls.

• P2000: basic model which features navigation, bluetooth hands-free and traffic advisory data.


• P2200: adds a built-in camera


• P2800: adds a wireless back up camera and iPod remote connectivity but no camera

Empower will also sell the three models under the ‘PowerPlay’ brand and the P2000 will be available for delivery in March. The P2200 and P2800 is slated for delivery in second quarter of this year. The suggested retail prices are: P2000 - $299, P2200 - $399 and P2800 - $499.

(Via NaviGadget.)

Navigon 8110

Navigon 8110

According to German site Pocket Navigation, Navigon is preparing a new, 8000 series PND, equipped with a new version of Navigon MobileNavigator (version 7) navigation software.

After version 6 presented two years ago this new version would finally introduce voice synthesis as well as voice recognition for capturing address information.

Routes calculation will be faster and it will still have the 3D reality view but even more realistic with the new version 7. Similarly ‘lane assist’ will improve.

Navigon 8110 will be the new high-end PND (portable navigation device) with a brushed aluminum design and a very wide screen, measuring 4.8 inches.

Navigon 8110 will be equipped with Navigon 7 which we just mentioned, and it will also have hands free integrated Bluetooth kit, as well as an FM transmitter to utilize the audio system of the vehicle. It will also have a RDS/TMC receiver for traffic information which would be integrated in the car charger.

As far as hardware the 8110 will have a processor running at 533 MHz, use a graphic accelerator, and have 128 MB of memory.

Here is a summary of the features:

• 4.8 inch screen with 480 X 272 pixels (WQVGA) resolution


• Integrated GPS receiver


• 533 MHz processor


• RDS/TMC receiver for premium traffic information


• FM Transmitter


• Hands Free Bluetooth Kit


• 128 MB RAM


• 512 MB ROM


• Navigon MobileNavigator 7 with Navteq maps


• Dimensions : 13.5x8.5x2.2 cm

Navigon 8110 will sell for 499 € with maps of Europe. You can expect 8110 to be announced at CeBIT which will take place next March in Germany.

(Via NaviGadget.)

Panasonic CN-MP50D GPS system

Panasonic CN-MP50D GPS system

If you have trouble finding your way around, perhaps it is time to invest in a GPS navigation system. The Panasonic CN-MP50D GPS system isn't any good in the US though, as its 2GB SD card comes pre-loaded with essential phone numbers and map information of 10 million points of interest in Japan. It will hit the Japanese market this February 12th for approximately $650 after conversion. Strange thing it lacks audio and video playback though - that's like taking a few steps backwards compared to other GPS systems these days that seem to function more and more like PMPs. No idea if it will ever make it Stateside, but keep yourself occupied with the specifications below in the meantime.

• Touch screen LCD display (272 x 480 pixels)


• SD memory card slot


• 4 hour battery life


• Memory storage for places up to 10 genres

(Via UberGizmo, the Gadgets News Blog.)

Dreevo Connected GPS

Dreevo Connected GPS

Add this one to the growing number of connected GPS units; the Dreevo PND. This from France, has some decent stats, and a yet to be proven capability. The unit has connected real-time speed camera positioning which is a pretty big feature for Europe, email messaging, and the all important traffic information. Its 4 inch widescreen formatted touch screen is the pathway to controlling this SiRF star III powered GPS. The Dreevo stays connected through a GSM/GPRS modem.

(Via GPS Lodge.)

blaupunkt TravelPilot Amsterdam NAV35E

blaupunkt TravelPilot Amsterdam NAV35E

If you need to give your console a retro look or do not want to clutter with fancy touch screen displays you maybe interested in the TravelPilot Amsterdam NAV35E from Blaupunkt. It is all black and white and it doesn’t even show maps. Just an arrow that tells you when and which direction you need to turn. It is very basic but it still can take you from A to B.

TravelPilot Amsterdam NAV35E does however carry some high end features such as an internal gyroscope to help out when GPS signals are weak, ability to receiver traffic information, navigation instructions in 10 languages, and the onboard memory to free up the CD player if you want to listen to music.

If the monochrome screen does not appeal to you check out the newer TravelPilot Rome NAV56E.

NAV35E is only available in Europe.

(Via NaviGadget.)

nuvi 850

nuvi 850

We thought Garmin was going to announce a nuvi 860 when we first heard of the nuvi 880 but we were wrong. The step down from nuvi 880 is going to be nuvi 850 which means no hands free calling with bluetooth wireless. Also unlike 880, 850 will not come with a 3 month free trial subscription to MSN Direct.

nuvi 850 will still have many high end features such as voice recognition, FM traffic compatibility, MSN Direct, text-to-speech, and the car locator.



Nuvi 850 is already available for pre-order on Amazon for $800.

(Via NaviGadget.)

REI exclusive on Garmin Colorado 400t

REI exclusive on Garmin Colorado 400t

REI has swung an exclusive deal on the brand new Garmin Colorado 400t

through February 11. Unfortunately, it's not discounted, but as of this afternoon, they have it in stock online. If you can wait till after the 11th, other vendors will be discounting them, probably to around $530. But if you gotta have it now...

(Via GPS Tracklog.)

Michelin Exits the Consumer GPS Market

Michelin Exits the Consumer GPS Market

If I say ‘Michelin’, you think ‘Tires’, right? Well, that resumes why Michelin is exiting the consumer GPS Market. While you might think that this sector is technology-driven, it is not really -'at least, not in the entry-level market. GPS devices have reached the point of being ‘good enough’ and most people couldn’t care less about gimmicks like multimedia features.

However, like any commodity, branding still plays a major role in selling the products (yes, just like soap) and Michelin never built a GPS brand that did resonate with consumers. I guess that the company thought that its foothold on the ‘auto’ market was good enough. It wasn’t.

(Via UberGizmo, the Gadgets News Blog.)

XRoad MO1000

XRoad MO1000

We have another, really sharp looking GPS navigation system + multimedia player device from Korea called XRoad MO1000. XRoad MO1000 is powered by a RMI Alchemy Au1250 processor which runs at an impressive 600MHz. Thus XRoad MO1000 can easily render 3D maps complete with building and other structures.

XROAD MO1000 runs on WinCE 5.0 OS and has the Korean standard 7″ TFT-LCD touch screen. It is HDD based and comes with 30GB of storage space, and has a DMB receiver to watch digitally broadcast channels.

Other features include live traffic information and picture-in-picture capability…

(Via NaviGadget.)

Viliv PMP X5 AIO and X5 VANT GPS

[CES 2008] Viliv PMP X5 AIO and X5 VANT

YuKyung Technologies(President Sam Sik Kim, www.myviliv.com) unveiled its PMP ‘X5 AIO’ and ‘X5 VANT’ during CES 2008. This X5 series is capable of using wireless internet with its exclusive web browser and of playing various videos file extensions including FLV.

These products, which are displayed at the Viliv booth, have either a built-in wireless LAN or an external modem—depending on the unit of choice—making wireless internet surfing possible. These are mobile multimedia devices with various functions for navigation, terrestrial DMB, mp3, and for playing movies

The X5 series has a 12.2㎝(4.8 inch) WVGA 800*480 LCD. Among the X5 Series are the X5 AIO, which is internet capable through an external modem, the X5 VANT which has a built-in wireless LAN, and the PMP X5 DIC, which is also ideal for research and learning.

In addition to that, the X5 series also has the world’s first mobile flash 3.0. It surpasses all mobile multimedia devices and supports multiple audio and video codecs including FLV and UCC.

Compared to the 128MB other mobile multimedia devices have, the X5’s powerful 256MB memory—another first in the world—facilitates speed, making computing and internet surfing more efficient. It has a removable big battery making a continuous 7-hour movie playback possible. It has internal GPS and DMB antenna.

The company’s CES representative said ‘The X5 products have received good reaction from foreign buyers and visitors in this show that they are true multimedia devices,’ and ‘We are expecting that the X5 AIO and X5 VANT will be successful in Korea market with improved wireless internet environment in Korea.’

(Via TRENDY GADGET.)

Asus releases R700 GPS device

Asus releases R700 GPS device

Asus' new flagship GPS device is known as the R700, and it pretty much contains what any other decent GPS navigation device has these days. Asus has been pretty hush hush concerning its pricing and shipping date, but we do know that the company has already confirmed an European debut sometime this year.

• 4.3' widescreen display


• 3D mode for greater realism


• microSD memory card slot (maximum of 4GB)


• 1GB internal memory


• Bluetooth 2.0 connectivity


• Integrated FM transmitter


• Traffic Message Channel support on the premium R700t model

(Via UberGizmo, the Gadgets News Blog.)

Kenwood DNX7100

Kenwood DNX7100

Multimedia in-dash receivers are some of the best selling products in the car audio market. They’re usually larger, spanning about twice as big as regular in-dash CD players (Double DIN). They contain tons of features ranging from built-in navigation to DVD playback on the integrated LCD screen.

Kenwood released their multi-media flagship, the DNX7100. This behemoth features a whopping 6.95″ LCD screen that could display movies as well as the built in GPS navigation. The large touchscreen is designed with the driver in mind, giving them the 6.95″ highly visible and bright screen. The large touch screen buttons allow the driver to safely command the system without spending dangerous amounts of time looking at the screen. In addition to the large screen, the unit features a high capacity hard disk, storing US and Canada maps as well as extra space for you to store your media files in.

(Via NaviGadget.)

Casio G’zOne GPS phone

Casio G’zOne GPS phone

Casio was displaying their relatively new G’zOne rugged GPS phone at CES 2008. The G’zOne comes standard with a location enabled 9-1-1 feature for emergency situations and if you activate the VZ Navigator from Verizon you can even have yourself a full GPS navigation system complete with turn-by-turn directions with access to 14 million POIs and detailed color maps.

G’zOne is equipped with bluetooth and supports headsets, handsfree, serial port, and dial-up networking profiles. Other features include voice commands, TTY/TTD capability, and a not so great digital camera.

Casio G’zOne is exclusively available at Verizon for $150 with a two year contract…

(Via NaviGadget.)

Clarion MiND

Clarion MiND

Clarion just introduced a next generation GPS navigation device called MiND which stands for Mobile Internet Navigation Device.

Clarion MiND is based on Intel’s Menlow platform which is pretty much an UMPC, allowing users to connect to the internet from their navigators using Wi-Fi, and play various kinds of multimedia files. Clarion MiND is also equipped with bluetooth which means you can pair up your bluetooth enabled phone with the device. Alternatively the same bluetooth connection can be used to connect to 3G networks when Wi-Fi is not available.

Here is the full list of those impressive specs:

• 5.2 inch WVGA (800x480) LCD Display with Touch screen


• Intel Menlow (Based on Silverthorne processor and Poulsbo Chipset)


• 256MB DRAM


• 4GB Flash Memory for Storage


• WiFi


• Bluetooth 2.0 EDR


• CMOS Camera


• 3G Data Module (Future Capability)


• Mobile WiMAX (Future Capability)

(Via NaviGadget.)

glofiish X650

glofiish X650

ETen of Taiwan has officially announced the new Windows Mobile smartphone Glofiish X650 that has a relatively large 2.8″ screen, and comes in either black or purple body.

Why this is worth mentioning on Navigadget is of course because of the integrated GPS receiver on Glofiish X650. Other connectivity options on X650 are Wi-Fi, bluetooth, and the FM tuner and trasmitter.

The hardware boasts a 500MHz processor, 256MB ROM, 64MB SDRAM, and a 2MP digital camera. Battery has 1530mAh capacity, the OS is Windows Mobile 6, and for memory expansion you’ve the microSD card slot.

X650 is expected to be available worldwide as soon this month.

(Via NaviGadget.)

Lightning Review: Nextar Snap3 Navigation System [Review]

Lightning Review: Nextar Snap3 Navigation System [Review]

The Gadget: Nextar's Snap3 Navigation system features a 3.5' 4:3 touchscreen, Bluetooth, MP3 player, a built-in stereo speaker, and a photo viewer — at an affordable price point.

The Price: Around $200

The Verdict: Horrible. There are a lot of features packed into the Nextar Snap3 for the price, but don't be fooled. Even if you cared about having an MP3 player, Bluetooth and a photo viewer in your GPS unit (which I don't) the bottom line is that none of it is worth a damn if the navigation system doesn't work.

The device took forever to acquire a signal, it was often confused in confined areas like neighborhoods and apartment complexes, and the voice prompts and distance measurements were generally out of sync with the locations on the map. In other words, I could be sitting at a stop sign, ready to make the correct turn, and the device would insist that I was hundreds of feet away from that same intersection. Well after the turn was made, the voice prompt would finally chime in. It was frustrating to say the least. Oh, and just for the record, none of the extras worked properly either. My suggestion is to stick with something from a more trusted brand that fits your price range— like the Garmin nuvi line.

(Via Gizmodo: GPS.)

Maestro 5310

Maestro 5310

Magellan has a new addition to their Maestro lineup that is geared for people with bad vision and poor hand eye coordination… or ‘baby-boomers’ as they’d call them. Bad bad joke…

Maestro 5310 has a big 5″ screen, up to 35% increase in readability thanks to its larger map and font sizes, and a straightforward navigation experience.

Maestro 5310 offers built-in AAA Tourbook as a travel guide and roadside assistance, and is capable of receiving live traffic information (3 months subscription free with purchase). Maps cover the 50 states, Canada, and Puerto Rico and points of interest offer 6 million items in its database.

Magellan Maestro 5310 will cost $700 when it comes out first quarter of this year.

(Via NaviGadget.)

Maestro Elite 4370

Maestro Elite 4370

Magellan announced the new Maestro Elite 4370 at CES 2008 last week. The 4370 offers 4.3″ screen which they say is the most responsive out there and is the first true flat touch display since they’ve eliminated the plastic bezel housing.

Maestro Elite 4370 will feature text-to-speech technology that announces street names, Bluetooth capability for hands-free calling, pre-loaded maps of North America, Puerto Rico and Mexico and more than 6 million searchable points of interest (POIs).

It’ll be available first quarter of this year.

(Via NaviGadget.)

new Seat GPS navigation systems

new Seat GPS navigation systems

European car maker Seat is offering a new breed of GPS navigation system which is DVD based but also comes with a 30GB hard disk drive. This new add-on will set you back £1,595 - way above what you would pay for an after market GPS navigation system.

The device is actually built by Siemens and the mapping data comes from Navteq. The new sat nav systems is available for order as an option on all Leon, Altea, Altea XL, Altea Freetrack 4 and Toledo models.

Seat’s new GPS navigation systems feature a large, 6.5″ touch screen and it also doubles as a CD/DVD player capable of handling various file formats including CD-A, MP3, WAV and WMA. On top of that, it can read from most mainstream media types such as CD-R/RW, DVD-R/RW etc.

With these DVD-based GPS navigation systems what comes to mind usually is if you can listen to music or watch something while navigating. With Seat, this is possible but you’ll have to store the whole mapping data on to the HDD. However you’ll still have 20GB of space left for your other files. Oh, and about watching DVD’s on your console: Only when the vehicle is stationary.

Other upgrades with the new system or the ability to get live traffic updates, and the bluetooth communication pack for pairing with cell phones. You can also use the AUX-IN to plug and play your portable music players.

(Via NaviGadget.)

Zamm SM400 Infotainment System

Zamm SM400 Infotainment System

Korean Zamm has a new model called SM400. Zamm likes to call such products ‘mobile infotainment system’ instead of just a GPS navigation system since these devices offer so much more.

SM400 has a 7″ screen at 800x480 resolution and uses Windows CE 5.0 OS on a 500Mhz processor. It has a 3000mAh battery that can last up to 2 - 3 hours depending on which function you’re using. And there are plenty: Blutooth, GPS navigation, DVB-T, 1-Seg, DMB, video player, audio player, photo album, games, and more…

The GPS receiver is from SiRF, has an SD card slot, and also offers a USB 2.0 host slot. Availability in the U.S? Nope. But we did see it at CES 2008.

(Via NaviGadget.)

Diosonic DPM-430GN GPS Navigation with multimedia player

Diosonic DPM-430GN GPS Navigation with multimedia player

Diosonic from Korea was at CES 2008 displaying their brand new GPS navigation system DPM-430GN. This GPS navigation system has a 4.3″ touch screen, and it also features a few interface button on each of the display.

The main function of DPM-430GN is actually a multimedia player with a 30GB or a 60GB HDD that can also serve as a GPS navigation system thanks to cradle with an embedded SiRF Star III chipset.

We don’t have any details on what kinds of multimedia files it supports but the specs tell us it can handle audio, video, image files and it can also record voice.

DPM-430GN also has an optional FM transmitter, video out port, bluetooth, SD card slot that can read upto 4GB cards, and it even has an DVB-T/H receiver to watch digitally broadcast TV channels. Specs don’t mention how much this media player weighs but it is probably not very light because of the 4000mAh battery.

We’re not sure if this will ever make to the U.S.

(Via NaviGadget.)

NavNGo Limousine

NavNGo Limousine

Hungarian NavNGo had a nice booth at CES 2008 and one of their products was the NavNGo Limousine which is designed to turn on existing display on your dashboard into a GPS navigation system. In the box you’ll find the NavNGo Limousine Navigator unit which carries the 300MHz CPU and the memory, 2 GB SD memory card with navigation software and digital maps, SiRFStar III external GPS-receiver, remote control, speaker and an external IR sensor.

The unit does not contain a display but has support for 430x234 pixel, 16 bit color screens and supports 16:9 format.

We have no information on pricing just yet.

(Via NaviGadget.)

Colorado 300

Colorado 300

The Garmin Colorado 300 we announced a month ago was proudly put on display at CES 2008. Colorado 300 is the base model of the new Colorado mapping handheld GPS series from Garmin and it includes worldwide basemap with shaded relief unlike the 400 models (400i, 400t, and 400c) which include specialized maps. However Colorado 300 supports SD cards so you can take any kind of map with you including street maps, topographic maps, coastal charts or inland lake data.

New on the Colorado series is the wireless sharing of waypoints, tracks, routes and geocaches with other users, and of course the new ‘rock’n roller’ input wheel which allows for one hand control of the GPS device for most functions.

Here are the specs for Colorado 300:

• Display: 240 x 400 pixels, transflective color TFT


• Weight: 7.3 oz (206.9 g) with batteries


• Battery: 2 AA or 2 NiMH batteries


• Battery life: 15 hours


• Waterproof: yes (IPX7)


• Basemap: yes


• Ability to add maps: yes


• Built-in memory: 384 MB


• Accepts data cards: SD card (not included)


• Waypoints/favorites/locations: 1000


• Routes: 50


• Track log: 10,000 points, 20 saved tracks


• Preloaded maps: no

(Via NaviGadget.)

Sanyo NVM-E2000D

Sanyo NVM-E2000D

Sanyo had a new in-dash navigation system on display at CES 2008 called NVM-E2000D. The in-dash system fits into 2DIN slots and it uses flash memory instead of relying on hard disk drives.

NVM-E2000D has a 5.8″ TFT wide touch screen, video input terminal for rear view camera, front aux-in terminal to hook up your audio player. It comes with 1.8 millions of POIs and also has support for SD cards.

The software on NVM-E2000D can play DVD movies, MP3 files, show JPEG photos too. Did we mention it has support for TMC for live updates?

We have no info on pricing just yet.

(Via NaviGadget.)

RoadMate 1400

RoadMate 1400

At CES 2008 this week Magellan also introduced the RoadMate 1400 which is the base model of this new series that also contains the RoadMate 1412 and RoadMate 1430.

RoadMate 1400 features a wide 4.3″ touch screen and comes with Navteq road maps of the continental U.S., Hawaii, and Puerto Rico. It only has room for 1.3 million points of interests and is priced at $300.

More features:

• 4.3-inch WQVGA full-color, anti-glare touch-screen display


• Centrality Atlas III GPS chipset


• 2-D and 3-D map views with auto day/night mode switching


• Trip computer and trip planner


• QuickSpell intelligently searches and checks spelling when entering addresses


• SmartDetour prompts drivers to route around heavy or stationary traffic


• SD card slot for maps


• USB port for PC connection and in-vehicle power

(Via NaviGadget.)

GPS enabled uPro for golfers

GPS enabled uPro for golfers

uPro by uPlay is a brand new GPS enabled range finder that is expected to be debuted at 2008 PGA show.

uPro brings the best of GPS and laser technologies in this device and adds aerial images, video flyovers into the mix. In addition, uPro allows the golfer to get exact distances to and from any point on the course.

In something called a ‘Pro Mode’, uPro can actually render custom views of the course depending on the location of the player and update as he/she moves.

No word on pricing just yet…

(Via NaviGadget.)

i-Tracker

i-Tracker

Transystem of Taiwan was displaying a new personal GPS tracker at CES 2008. The new GPS tracking device is called i-Tracker and looks slightly more appealing than a black rectangular box shape that we’re used to.

i-Tracker includes both GPS and GSM modules and it can transmit location information to your PC or to a pre-assigned number via GPRS (read: real time tracking).

i-Tracker supports quad bands (850/900/1800/1900 MHz) and can remotely be controlled with a predetermined cell phone and/or an internet connection. It features a SOS button that sends out the location info immediately and can last up to 120 hours with its 1600mAh Li-Ion battery.

No word on the type of the GPS receiver used but it has -158dBm tracking sensitivity.

(Via NaviGadget.)

iRiver M20 GPS navigator

iRiver M20 GPS navigator

iRiver introduced a new gadget at CES 2008 this week called iRiver M20.

What makes this iRiver different than most others is that M20 is a PND (portable navigation device) unlike most iRivers which are just multimedia players.

iRiver M20 features built-in GPS obviously but also wants you to utilize the super sharp 7″ screen with its DMB receiver capability. M20 also accepts SD cards and has an FM tuner.

We don’t have any info on when this would be available in the U.S. or what you would do with its DMB receiver here where even 3G networks are rare…

(Via NaviGadget.)

More on the Magellan Maestro Elite 5340 + GPRS

More on the Magellan Maestro Elite 5340 + GPRS

Magellan let a press release drop on the Maestro Elite 5340 + GPRS and it includes some detail that was lacking in the mainstream previously. The big ideas at work here are the fact that the Maestro 5340 and 5430+GPRS are big-screened (5-inch), have a new interface that includes a ‘One-Touch’ command to make for simpler interactions, integrated Historical Average Speeds for more intelligent routing when traffic slows speeds on the roadways, and in some areas 3-D buildings to offer a better view of what’s around you. When you add the GPRS connectivity over the mobile phone network you also add connected search and a way to get traffic alerts to complement your historical average speed database. The connected search will get you things like weather, and hopefully a gas price search around you, as I found that service on the Nuvi 680 a very helpful capability.

I am definitely looking forward to the next generation of connected units with the Historical Average speeds.

Press Release after the jump...
Magellan’s new large-screen 5-inch Maestro Elite 5340 and Maestro Elite 5340+GPRS auto navigation devices feature OneTouch, a revolutionary and patent-pending new user interface that puts the user’s favorite routes, searches and applications such as an MP3 player just one click away. After users identify and store favorite restaurant chains and other destinations in the device, the OneTouch feature lets them instantly access directions to the nearest locations with one quick menu click. The OneTouch menu also enables instant access to the most-used features that the driver defines.

‘The new OneTouch interface represents the next generation of navigation, enabling instant access to the device’s features and the ability to search for points of interest right from the main display,’ said Christian Bubenheim, vice president of product marketing, Magellan. ‘OneTouch delivers revolutionary new screen flow and ease of use that is designed to maximize functionality while reducing driver distraction. For the frequent traveler, an example of one benefit of the OneTouch interface is the ability to pre-program the unit to find a specific brand of business, wherever they are, with a simple click. When a traveler is ready to find their favorite cup of coffee, they click on the OneTouch button they created and the GPS unit immediately finds the closest location and can route them to it with one touch of the screen.’

OneTouch Gives Easy Access to Travel Experience Drivers Want

Magellan’s new Maestro Elite solutions with OneTouch give drivers a personalized travel experience with all of their favorites close at hand:

Instant access to favorite businesses, restaurants, services and more, so drivers can find the things they care about in a click wherever they are.

Instant access to specific address destinations so drivers can quickly route to the same address when needed.

Instant access to applications so users can quickly play music, make a call, find an address, or use the trip planner for multiple destinations.

Instant access to all Points of Interest (POI) from a single source so drivers can perform one search and get results from both the standard POI database and Magellan-exclusive AAA TourBook® guide travel information database. Results are organized in a tabbed format.

When the Maestro Elite 5340 is connected to live services via the optional GPRS cradle, OneTouch offers a complete and detailed Local Info screen that includes multiple views of location-specific data like weather, local events and a growing list of services so users can see it all at a glance.

Two Ways to Get Around Traffic

Integrated live traffic receiver and subscription service is paired with a new live traffic user interface that gives drivers easy access to all traffic information and offers alternative routes so drivers can choose.

All routing is enhanced to give more accurate route calculation based on historic traffic data including traffic patterns during specific times of day.

Intuitive and Clutter Free

3-D landmarks and texture-mapped 3-D buildings to give drivers visual cues for maneuvers and destinations.

Map information is built as layers, with the most-often-used information given prominent position for easy access.

Larger readable fonts.

Intuitive, context-driven touch zones for a completely interactive map screen.

New address book makes address entry a snap with smart address summary that lets users save complete itineraries.

Simple data entry enabled by one of the largest keyboards in its class and unique QuickSpell® functionality that allows quick single-address entry or convenient multi-destination trip planning, including route optimization.

The new Maestro Elite 5340 and Maestro Elite 5340+GPRS with their large, high-resolution 5-inch wide-screens have 35 percent more viewable area than previous generations. Users get the most powerful vehicle navigation solution on the market, including fast route calculation and robust database, due to the SiRFstarIII chipset, powerful 533 MHz processor ARM 9, and high-performance dedicated graphics CPU. It also includes a dual microphone for Bluetooth®-enabled hands-free calling with superior sound quality.

Both Maestro Elite 5340 and Maestro Elite 5340+GPRS also add a digital media player and FM transmitter to broadcast a user’s MP3 files through the car speakers. The advanced SayWhere™ voice command allows the driver to control the unit’s key functions by voice, including entering an address by voice, and shortcuts to nearest points of interest like gas stations, coffee shops, and restaurants by food type (‘Nearest Italian Restaurant’).

The Maestro Elite 5340 and Maestro Elite 5340+GPRS will be compatible with Magellan VantagePointTM, the only desktop application on the market that helps people manage their GPS maps, information, and other content and easily sync it to their devices. Through VantagePoint, which is a free download from http://www.magellangps.com, Magellan customers can personalize and expand their GPS experience.

Maestro Elite 5340 – Top-of-the-line, big-screen navigation model

Featuring a 5-inch, WQVGA full-color display and Magellan’s ultra-thin industrial design, the Maestro Elite 5340 includes 6 million searchable points of interest (POIs); exclusive AAA TourBook® guide travel information and member Roadside Assistance details; preloaded maps of the 50 United States, Canada and Puerto Rico; advanced voice command and control; proprietary SayWhere™ text-to-speech technology that announces street names; integrated live traffic with free 3-month subscription to Magellan’s real-time traffic service; Bluetooth compatibility; rendered 3-D landmarks and buildings; digital media player and FM transmitter.

Maestro Elite 5340+GPRS featuring Real-Time Google Local Search – Top-of-the-line, connected navigation model

The Magellan Maestro Elite 5340+GPRS, announced separately today, is the company’s premiere GPS model, featuring a Google local search function that enables users to get deep, location-specific information on the go. It provides the industry’s first seamless, flat touch screen; 3-D landmarks and buildings; 6 million POIs; a USB port; exclusive AAA TourBook® guide travel information and member Roadside Assistance details; and advanced voice command functionality. The Maestro Elite 5340+GPRS also features a 5-inch WQVGA widescreen; a 533 MHz S-Media 3362 processor; and the ability to perform deep searches on local areas and receive information sent from a PC for on-the-fly changes.

Both of the new Maestro Elite products ship in Q1 2008 with a windshield mount and cradle, a cigarette lighter adapter, protective pouch, A/C power adapter, USB data cable and an adhesive disk for dash mounting.

(Via GPS Lodge.)

Magellan RoadMate 1212

Magellan RoadMate 1212

The step up from the entry level RoadMate 1200 Magellan introduced this week at CES 2008 is the RoadMate 1212. RoadMate 1212 adds maps for Canada and Alaska on top of the maps of continental U.S., Hawaii, and Puerto Rico and bumps the POI number from a low 1.3 million to a decent 6 million. Magellan also brings text-to-speech with RoadMate 1212 and keeps the same slim body design with the 3.5″ QVGA anti-glare touch screen.

RoadMate 1212 will have an MSRP of $300.

(Via NaviGadget.)

Holux GR-510

Holux GR-510

At CES 2008 we stopped by Holux’s booth to check out a few new GPS tracking devices. One of them was the new GPS tracker on display called GR-510. Just like other Holux devices we’ve covered before this one also has a simple design and a very small form factor. It is very compact and designed for personal or vehicle tracking.

Holux GR-510 has a rechargeable Li-Ion battery that can last up to 8 hours.

(Via NaviGadget.)

Clarion EZD580 GPS Navigation Device

Clarion EZD580 GPS Navigation Device

Clarion announce the new EZD580 GPS device. Clarion EZD580 is powered by SiRD Star III GPS chipset and has 2GB NAND Flash memory and 64MB RAM. Clarion EZD580 has a 4.3-inch LCD touchscreen, support for turn by turn voice prompt, text-to-speech, 10 Million points of interest.

Other than GPS navigation, the EZD580 does also MP3, WMA playcback and JPEG viewing. Bluetooth is also supported. The device comes with maps of USA and Canada.

(Via iTech News Net.)

Blueberry GPS35B

Blueberry GPS35B

One of the new brands in the GPS navigation world is the conveniently named ‘blueberry‘ brand. They were displaying various models all the way from A to J at CES 2008 and one those was the GPS35B.

It is a basic device with a 3.5″ touch screen, built-in 64MB flash, SD card slot that supports memory cards upto 2GB, and multimedia support for a few audio and video formats… e-books too.

Blueberrry GPS35B runs on a Centrality Atlas II processor and uses an out of the ordinary setup for GPS reception. The little spec sheet we found said GPS35B uses a 22 channel high sensitivity GPS receiver chipset integrated into the Dual Core design. The integrated Li-Ion is supposed to last up to 4 hours.

We have no info when this would be available or for how much. We hope they can find a distributor here in the U.S.

(Via NaviGadget.)

SONY Nav-U series: the elegant GPS with dual view

SONY Nav-U series: the elegant GPS with dual view

[CES 2008] Sony unveiled its new Nav-U line (models NV-U73T and NV-U83T) last Sunday during the CES press conference. We had the opportunity to take a closer look at it today and we liked it: the sleek and elegant design is backed up by interesting technical features like the dual view (see photo). Users can see a location in details, which is useful when you remember a place only by the surrounding point of interests.

When the GPS signal is weak the POSITION Plus feature provides a more accurate estimation of the positioning. It includes a pressure sensor, gyro sensor and an acceleration sensor (most competitors do not have these sensors to help the position estimation)

We did not take the Nav-U for a ride, so we do not know how it feels in the real world.


Available in early spring, pre-orders are now being accepted at www.sonystyle.com/navu


Pricing: NV-U73T $350 and NV-U83T $500

(Via UberGizmo, the Gadgets News Blog.)

GPS tracking phone GT1000

GPS tracking phone GT1000

Supa was displaying a GPS tracking phone at CES 2008 called GT1000. GT1000 is a combination of a quad-band GSM-GPRS phone and a GPS logger and tracker powered with a SiRF Star III receiver chip.

Other features include an optional MP3 Player, integrated T-Flash slot, Geo Fence and a SOS button, and storage of upto 1440 way points.

GT1000 has a 1.8″ TFT-LCD display and measures 108x45x18.5 mm in size.

(Via NaviGadget.)

Holux GPSmile 61

Holux GPSmile 61

Holux is readying a new GPS navigation system called GPSmile 61 which was already on display at CES 2008. GPSmile 61 caught out attention with its shiny slim body design and sharp screen that measures 4.3 inches.

Specs are not yet clear but all we know that it supports 4GB SD cards, and can render maps in 3D. Looking at the picture we can also see that it has some sort of a media player.

(Via NaviGadget.)

LG LN855

LG LN855

We had a chance to stop by LG’s huge booth at CES 2008 and find out more about their new GPS navigation systems. They’ve expanded their LN lineup with three new models. The LG LN835, LN845, and the latest and greatest LG LN855.

LN855 has a 4.3″ widescreen LCD display that looks great on its slim body. LN855 supports access to real time traffic information in 50 North American cities via an integrated RDS-TMC antenna. Of course it also does turn-by-turn voice guidance while pronouncing street names thanks to its text to speech technology. Bluetooth voice calling, phone book sync and music streaming is standard on the new LG LN855 and also has audio out and headphone jack in addition to USB Port and SD Card Slot.

More specs:

• 5 hour battery life


• over 4 million points of interests


• SiRF Star III GPS receiver chip

(Via NaviGadget.)

RoadMate 1200

RoadMate 1200

Magellan just unveiled a new RoadMate at CES 2008 called RoadMate 1200; their new entry level GPS navigation system.

RoadMate 1200 features 3.5″ touch screen, Centrality Atlas III GPS chipset, SD card slot for maps, and a USB port for PC connection and in-vehicle power. The only maps you’ll get with Magellan RoadMate 1200 are Navteq® maps of the Continental United States, Hawaii and Puerto Rico, and 1.3 million essential POIs.

RoadMate 1200 is priced at $230 and is expected to hit the market very soon.

(Via NaviGadget.)

Magellan RoadMates 1400, 1412, 1430 New Widescreens

Magellan RoadMates 1400, 1412, 1430 New Widescreens

Magellan is launching a new line of Roadmates that are sure to get a few looks. The 1400 series is a widescreen (4.3 inch) line that adds a stronger line-up at the low end with a base and then extended features as you climb up the line.

RoadMate 1400 - The unit starts with some base features we have seen in Magellan units like QuickSpell type ahead technology, a new menu, and NAVTEQ maps of the continental US, plus Hawaii and Puerto Rico, 1.3 Million POI, and has a list price of $299.

RoadMate 1412 - adds Maps for Canada and Alaska, Text to Speech, and has 6 million POI. List price of $349.

RoadMate 1430 - adds fully integrates traffic information through an integrated antenna in the plower plug!!! yes; nice move. List price $399.

Press Release Follows.....
Magellan is premiering five new additions to its popular RoadMate series of entry-level vehicle navigation units, including the first 4.3-inch widescreen RoadMate units from Magellan with attractive retail pricing that begins at just $229.

The Magellan RoadMate series delivers ‘turn it on and go’ functionality in an ultra-slim, pocket-sized form. The new RoadMate 1400 series of GPS units are an extension of the best selling RoadMate brand. The Magellan RoadMate is ideal for drivers new to GPS units or for parents to give to their younger drivers. The new RoadMate series can be viewed this week in Las Vegas at the Consumer Electronics Show (CES) in Las Vegas in Magellan’s booth (no. 31247).

The new RoadMate 1400 series features a large, widescreen, 4.3-inch anti-glare touch screen and a simple, intuitive user interface, with premiere features including Quickspell™, for fast input with a minimal amount of keystrokes. It also features a newly designed easy to view menu and map screens that incorporate easy to identify, stylish icons and graphics that are clear and crisp to the user.

The base model, the RoadMate 1400, comes preloaded with Navteq® road maps of the Continental United States, Hawaii and Puerto Rico, plus 1.3 million essential points of interest, such as gas stations, ATMs, and airports with contact details such as location, phone number and travel distance (MSRP $299).

The RoadMate 1412 adds maps for Canada and Alaska; text-to-speech announcements of street names; and points of interest totalling more than 6 million, including retail, dining, health service and other local business information(MSRP $349).

The RoadMate 1430 has the same features as the RoadMate 1412 and adds a fully-integrated live traffic feature that uses real-time traffic update information to display traffic incidents along the driver’s route, suggests alternative routes when ‘fastest time’ to destination is selected, and recalculates the expected arrival time based on the monitored traffic. The antenna to receive traffic data is seamlessly integrated into the unit’s power cable. A free three-month subscription to Magellan Traffic Service is included with purchase (MSRP $399).

(Via GPS Lodge.)

Mio readying new device: one side phone, other side GPS

Mio readying new device: one side phone, other side GPS

We came across this brand new device from Mio that doesn’t even have a name yet. The reps were not nice enough to share with us just a couple of details though. This GPS phone has two sides, and two displays. One side of the device is dedicated to the GPS function and the other side is for using as regular GSM phone.

We’ll keep you updated as we find out more.

(Via NaviGadget.)