October 31, 2005

New Garmin iQue M4 - Maps to go

Garmin also announced today the release of the Garmin iQue M4, the Windows Mobile based PDA with integrated high sensitivity SiRF GPS receiver. It comes preloaded with detailed maps of North America (US, Canada and Puerto Rico). The high sensitivity SiRF chipset and the pre-loaded maps differentiate this model from the iQue M3 product.

"The M4's pre-loaded maps and Pocket PC features make it a versatile tool for mobile professionals who need an all-in-one device designed to help them stay ahead of their schedule and on route to their next appointment," said Gary Kelley, Garmin's vice president, marketing.

It still uses the intuitive interface of "Where to?" or "View Map" that can be seen across the line of products. The PDA format allows you to input locations like addresses easily and be routed right there.

On top of GPS functions, the PDA functions include the ever popular MP3 player capability. A nice add these days.

The unit should be available in time for Christmas, and is expected to retail for $699 (street).

Detailed Specs:
* Windows Mobile 2003 Second Edition for Pocket PC
* Preloaded with City Navigator North America NT covering the U.S., Canada & Puerto Rico-ready to use out of the box
* High-sensitivity integrated GPS receiver by SiRF
* SD/MMC memory card expansion slot for use with other MapSource street mapping products
* SDIO compatible for optional WiFi, Bluetooth, camera or other peripherals
* Includes Microsoft Pocket Outlook, Internet Explorer, Word and Excel; Windows Media
Player, MSN Messenger Service, Calculator and ActiveSync
* WAAS enabled; includes MCX-type connector for optional external GPS antenna connection
* Integrated flip-up GPS patch antenna can be positioned for optimal reception
* Unit size: 2.83"W x 5.04"H x .75"D (72.0 x 128.0 x 19 mm)
* Display: 3.5" diagonal, (89 mm), 240 x 320 pixel, QVGA transflective TFT display, 64K colors
* Unit weight: 5.9 oz (166 g)
* Processor: 312 MHz Intel PXA 271 XScale processor
* Internal 1250 mAh lithium ion rechargeable battery; Enhanced battery life delivering 5-7 hours of continuous PDA/GPS use
* Internal memory: 64MB RAM, 32MB ROM (safe storage and detailed maps available on additional memory)
* Built-in speaker for voice-guidance commands, MP3 player, and message playback
* Voice recorder for making memos, quick notes, and messages on the fly
* Infrared (IR) communications
* Headphone and external GPS antenna connections
* Interfaces: USB
* Easily route to Outlook contacts and Calendar appointments
* Search postal codes for European countries
* Save routes and track logs
* Enter a series of destinations, and the unit will automatically sort them to provide an efficient route
* Specify areas and road segments to avoid when calculating routes
* Detour around construction and traffic