September 21, 2006

New GPS: Via Michelin X980T Launched in Europe

Via-Michelin has released their new widescreen unit, the X-980T in Europe, signaling to me that they are starting the rollout of this unit, first in Europe, and now with their recent FCC approval, later in the US. It’s pretty high end with Bluetooth and widescreen, it will compete with the TomTom 910 and the Nuvi 660. One interesting feature that they are sporting that can only come with a widescreen GPS is the idea of a split screen. While navigating you can zoom to the next turn/intersection on the other part of the screen to give you an idea of what’s coming up. As most “T” branded units, this one comes with traffic alerts; most likely a paid service after a free trial program as is standard in the US.

The price in France is set for 699 Euros, or about $850, which puts it well into the top tier of GPS units. Stay tuned for more on a US launch. Features after the jump...

Main features of the French Via Michelin X980T

· Screen 4.3 inches (10.9 cm) tactile TFT 65 000 colors in 16/9 and of resolution 480 x 272 pixels (WQVGA)
· Processor - 416 MHz
· Receiver GPS Integrated SiRF star III
· 256 MB of ROM
· 64 MB of RAM
· mini USB
· Dimensions : 15 X 8.3 X 2.7 cm
· Weight : 260 G or about 9 ounces
· Software of navigation ViaMichelin 6 with TeleAtlas maps

Via

Read More in: Michelin GPS News

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Posted by Scott Martin at September 21, 2006 8:47 AM

Comments

Je voudrais faire l'achat de ce GPS
Adresses en Belgique?
Achat par retrait dans un magasin mais où ?

Posted by: Gilissen at October 3, 2006 12:23 PM

Bought this GPS from Tiger Direct for $165.+- and couldn't be happier. I was absolutely astounded at the clarity in the voice and the visibility of the screen. This unit operated flawlessly right to the front door of everywhere I plugged in. It alerts well before hand and I couldn't ask for more....especially for the price. I certainly can't understand the problem with the unit that the chap in the UK used, but mine in the US works great and I wouldn't hesitate buying this unit....period! It is a great product....even if it carries a "French" companies name.

Posted by: J. Zirbes at February 15, 2007 9:02 PM