March 31, 2007
GPS Steals and Deals - 3/30
A bit of a Review-a-palooza here at the GPS Lodge this week. I posted reviews of the:
Garmin Nuvi 200/250/270 Review
Via Michelin X-930 GPS
EveryTrail Geotagging Site
We also saw the launch of the new Sony GPS units NV-U82 and NV-U92T
Highlights
Garmin Nuvi 350 dropped to $398, and it's a HOT seller at Amazon.
Garmin Nuvi 360 adds Bluetooth to the Nuvi 350 capabilities and is now around $469.
Both of the above continue to ease down after a $50 drop a few weeks ago.
TomTom ONE - around $290 See my Review of the TomTom ONE.
TomTom GO 510 - $364
TomTom GO 910 - $439
TomTom RIDER - $544 (another $50 drop this week)
The usual Steals and Deals
Fry's is still blowing out the Mio C310x at $189 .
More Info on the C310X from GPSLodge.
Price drop on Mio H610 travel companion - now $354 - see my review.
Garmin Forerunner Rebate - $50 back on a Forerunner 205 or 305, which drops the prices down significantly.
Garmin 2720 Rebate - $50 off now through 4/9
Other GPS's. Here’s a quick rundown:
Garmin Nuvi 660 - Price around $697 at Amazon. See our review - Also check out the GPSNow site for what has been often a lower price, and Order by 5PM weekdays, you get same day cheap shipping.
Garmin Nuvi 670 - Need to travel to Europe and navigate when you get there? Garmin Nuvi 670 comes pre-loaded with both US and Euro maps. It's the very capable Nuvi 660 base unit with the extra maps pre-loaded.
Garmin StreetPilot C330 – Now around $273 for this very capable, maps pre-loaded device.
Garmin StreetPilot C340 – for $319
March 31, 2007
V7 My Guide in for Review
V7/My Guide unveiled its Navigator 1000 GPS product last year and I recently got one in for review. The unit is targeted at the entry level market. The
MyGuide V7 Navigator 1000 comes with many features, including a 3.5-inch TFT LCD screen, 320 x 240 resolution, touch-screen enabled, turn-by-turn voice instruction in 23 languages, SD card technology, expandable storage, picture viewer, MP3-audio and AVI-video capabilities. The unit carries a two-year warranty and includes mounting hardware. The unit uses an iGo software package that is similar to the Mio C310x (and other Mio products) so if you have seen or used those, you'll be in familiar territory. From my playing around with the unit, it is not EXACTLY like the Mio and their Mio Map branded interface, so I'll dig in and understand some of the key differences as I use the unit.
Update: See My Review of the V7/MyGuide Navigator 1000 - 4/13
Continue reading: "V7 My Guide in for Review"
March 30, 2007
Mio H610 - Winner "Bottom Line Award"
Mio Technology’s DigiWalker H610 personal navigation and digital entertainment device was recognized for its innovative design at the 3rd annual Bottom Line Design Awards, sponsored by leading strategic-creative consultancy frog design and Business 2.0 magazine. The awards are published in the April issue of Business 2.0 and not only celebrate products that feature great design, but also those that demonstrate versatility, elegance, an ability to increase their value by attracting attention, driving sales and nurturing long-term customer loyalty.
“This year’s awards are more than just visually appealing. They provide great business potential, their customization is smart and timely and in many cases, their impact on the environment is notable. We’re pleased to showcase and share these design winners with our readers,” said Business 2.0 Editor Josh Quittner.
Continue reading: "Mio H610 - Winner "Bottom Line Award""
March 30, 2007
Garmin C530 Text to Speech Hack
So if you were wondering how to upgrade your new Garmin C530, to Text to Speech, look no further; note: Hacking required. For some of us, it might be a total nightmare, for others it might just be a dream come true to add a hidden capability by hacking a few lines of code, but here you go, directions on how to take a non-text-to-speech model like the C530 and adding the capability found at higher prices.
Hack at your own risk and enjoy the results.
Thanks atcMonkE for sending this in.
ReadMore about the Garmin C530 Text to Speech Hack
March 29, 2007
Review: Geotagging with EveryTrail
Geotagging your photos, or tagging them with location information, is set to get big as a few things are happening right now: 1) GPS adoption climbs and more people have a GPS to use and gather information, and 2) the cheap GPS chips find their way into more and more digital cameras. With the plummeting size and cost of GPS chips, I would be surprised if we don't see consumer digital cameras with GPS chips inside of the next 2 years.
Everytrail is one site that helps you combine your tracklog from a GPS and your digital photos to share them with friends. The site is free. The process of creating "Trips" s simple and adding photos to the site allows you to tell a story of your journey. I used the EveryTrail site recently to build up a trip detailing our Mt Washington journey last summer.
Continue reading: "Review: Geotagging with EveryTrail"
March 28, 2007
Sony NV-U82 and NV-U92T
After some
stops and starts, Sony has launched a pair of GPS systems that look pretty nice with a great design presence. The NV-U82 and the NV-U92T are big widescreen units at a 4.8 inch diagonal with a huge point of view of what’s to come and where you are going. With all of that screen real estate, they can cram a lot on there, and have started to offer some extras that units with smaller screens can’t quite do without the extra real estate. The extra information may be a help or a distraction; can’t wait to try these out.
As previously disclosed, the new Sony models feature “gesture support” which allows the user to flick the screen in different ways to give commands of where to go. Just sketch a simple line or shape on screen with a fingertip and the NV-U82 and NV-U92T will guide you safely and surely to frequent destinations – like ‘home’ or the ‘nearest gas station’.
More information from the Sony site below:
Continue reading: "Sony NV-U82 and NV-U92T"
March 27, 2007
Via Michelin X-930 Review
-A Review by GPSLodge-
I have been driving around with the Via Michelin X-930 for a several weeks now and it’s about time I got back and wrote a review up on this entry-level device. The Via Michelin X-930 is in expensive but has some impressive characteristics for that low price. " The Via Michelin X-930 is a decent first step in the US market, which I expect will not be their last."
While the SiRF star III chipset is fairly common in GPS units these days, the Via Michelin goes beyond this with a very thin profile and light device (4.8 x 2.8 x 0.7 inches and weighs in at about 4.9 ounces) that has a fit and finish that is pretty good. It’s got a 3.5-inch screen in a widescreen format. The design is straight forward, refined beyond its entry-level status, and it slips easily into your pocket.
After a couple of weeks behind the wheel, with the unit, I have to say that I never got lost, and the unit got me to where I was going with solid directions and good turn indications. The unit does not have text to speech capability, but few at this price point do.
Update: Even more information on the Via Michelin X-930
Continue reading: "Via Michelin X-930 Review"
March 26, 2007
Garmin Enhances Garmin Mobile Features
Garmin announced new features and content for select mobile phones equipped with Garmin Mobile -- a subscription-based, feature-rich application delivering maps, directions and turn-by-turn navigation on mobile phones. The new services are available now at no additional cost to customers. They namely added hotel info and content to the Garmin Mobile Interface. Mobile Phone services or Location Based Services (LBS) are going to be big this year, and Garmin is doing their best to make sure that they, as leaders in the GPS world, are part of that upswing.
"Adding Garmin Mobile to cell phones transforms the phone into a high-end personal navigation device," said Charles Morse, Garmin's director of mobile and PND marketing. "Customers who have experienced Garmin Mobile know that it simplifies travel at home and afar. Plus, it's one of the most affordable ways to enjoy the benefits of GPS navigation with real-time traffic info, fuel prices, weather forecasts and hotel prices."
Continue reading: "Garmin Enhances Garmin Mobile Features"
TeleAtlas Expands South American Coverage
Tele Atlas announced the expansion of digital map coverage in South America, with increased coverage in Brazil. As part of its ongoing global expansion strategy, and in response to increased demand from global customers for highly detailed and accurate maps of all major countries, Tele Atlas’ maps in Brazil now reach more than 65 percent of the country’s population, with significant coverage focus on economic growth areas.
With this release, Tele Atlas is successfully bringing to market digital maps with a considerable increase in navigable city coverage, furthering the company’s lead position in the Brazil market. Maps for Brazil now feature detailed street-level map coverage for more than 1,000 municipalities, incorporating major and interconnecting roads, and include navigable data for more than 150 cities, such as Brasília, Curitiba, Porto Alegre, Recife, Rio de Janeiro, Salvador and São Paulo. With the country’s rapidly expanding infrastructure and growing population, Tele Atlas considers Brazil a strategic region.
Continue reading: "TeleAtlas Expands South American Coverage"
March 25, 2007
Garmin Nuvi 200/250/270 Review
-A Hands On Review by GPSLodge.com-
Update: The Garmin Nuvi 200W and 250W WIDESCREEN GPS units are announced!
Update: See my Full Review on the new Nuvi 200W/250W Widescreen units
The Garmin Nuvi 200/250/270 has shown up to extend the Garmin line into the value end of the market just as this end of the market is exploding. Late last year, the holiday shopping spree on value GPS systems blew the doors off the retailers, and catapulted the GPS onto the mainstream stage. "Garmin has a winner on their hands...solid through and through."
Garmin is too big and too smart to let an opportunity like that slip past. I have been using the Nuvi 250, and from my travels with it, Garmin has a winner on their hands and they will put a lot of pressure on the value end of the market to bring on their “A” game; a demand that a many won’t be up to. Garmin has brought to the market a true Garmin GPS, no big corners cut, no big misses in their design. I am pretty happy to be able to bring the first full review of the unit to you; so let's take a look.
Complete information on the Nuvi 200/250/270 at GPSLodge
For a full list of my own Hands on Full Reviews of GPS units; Click - GPSLodge.com Hands On Reviews
Continue reading: "Garmin Nuvi 200/250/270 Review"
March 24, 2007
GPS Steals and Deals - 3/24
Highlights
Garmin Nuvi 350 dropped to $399, and it's a HOT seller at Amazon.
Garmin Nuvi 360 adds Bluetooth to the Nuvi 350 capabilities and is now around $479.
Both of the above dropped about $50 about a week ago.
TomTom ONE - around $280 See my Review of the TomTom ONE.
TomTom GO 510 - $367
TomTom GO 910 - $457
TomTom RIDER - $599
The usual Steals and Deals
Fry's is still blowing out the Mio C310x at $189 .
More Info on the C310X from GPSLodge.
Price drop on Mio H610 travel companion - now $379 - see my review.
Garmin Forerunner Rebate - $50 back on a Forerunner 205 or 305, which drops the prices down significantly.
Garmin 2720 Rebate - $50 off now through 4/9
Other GPS's. Here’s a quick rundown:
Garmin Nuvi 660 - Price around $710 at Amazon. See our review - Also check out the GPSNow site for what has been often a lower price, and Order by 5PM weekdays, you get same day cheap shipping.
Garmin Nuvi 670 - Need to travel to Europe and navigate when you get there? Garmin Nuvi 670 comes pre-loaded with both US and Euro maps. It's the very capable Nuvi 660 base unit with the extra maps pre-loaded.
Garmin StreetPilot C330 – Now around $275 for this very capable, maps pre-loaded device.
Garmin StreetPilot C340 – Think about moving up to the Garmin StreetPilot C530 whose price is down to $389. Won't speak street names, but Better chipset, and better screen for less money.
NAVTEQ Announces LBS Semi-Finalists
NAVTEQ announced the semifinalist applications in the 2007 NAVTEQ Global LBS Challenge. There are a few interesting ideas in the navigation category that should be adopted by all mobile phone companies... like marking the locatin of your car so you can find it again easily, and parking spot finder services (although the implementatin could be a mess). The program is designed to encourage application developers around the world to build innovative location-based services (LBS) that work with mobile and wireless devices using dynamic positioning technology and NAVTEQ® maps. NAVTEQ selected 16 applications in the Americas region, out of over 340 companies registered for the LBS Challenge globally, to continue on to a final judging round at CTIA Wireless 2007 based on each competitor’s commercial feasibility, functionality and design.
Continue reading: "NAVTEQ Announces LBS Semi-Finalists"
Sprint to Bundle Navigation Free
Sprint customers soon will have the power of a new robust GPS-enabled navigation service included at no additional charge in select Sprint data packs. Sprint Navigation powered by TeleNav will give customers the power of a full-featured GPS navigation device right on select Sprint phones, and unlimited use of Sprint Navigation will be included in the new Sprint Power Vision(SM) Navigation Pack, along with two other existing data packs. In addition, Sprint customers who subscribe to other Sprint data packs will have access to Sprint Navigation for just $2.99 per day.
Continue reading: "Sprint to Bundle Navigation Free"
March 23, 2007
Garmin Nuvi Mini-Site - Wallpapers
So if you know you already want the Garmin Nuvi 200, then you might be interested in getting some Nuvi Wallpaper for your computer. Check out the Garmin Nuvi 200 mini-site and click on wallpaper for a few different designs.
at Garmin Nuvi 200 Mini-site
March 22, 2007
Get Married - Get a Free Nuvi 350
Yea, there's a catch, you have to get married in WalMart. Walmart is giving away a wedding package to seven couples who will walk down the WalMart aisle on 07/07/07, and receive a prize package worth more than $5,000 (Why didn't they make it worth $7,777?). Anyway, one of the items in the package is a Garmin Nuvi 350.
So think about it, you can either get married in a WalMart and get a free Nuvi 350, or you could plunk down the $399 and skip the "dream" package.
Via Garmin Blogs
Pocket Loox N100 Review
PC Mag has a new review out on the ultra portable LOOX N100 that joins the Mio Digiwalker H610 in the category, and if you don’t think this is real, there are some older rumors that TomTom is also taking a look at the segment. With that said, I thought that the Mio H610 was a solid little device when I reviewed the H610 late last year, and that the idea of an ultra portable GPS multifunction device is an appealing idea for those who need to be on the move.
Craig Ellison of PC Mag points out that there are some novel functions on the LOOX N100 that make navigation a different experience. This includes road signs, speed limit signs, lane information and branded POI icons, which I have to think is a sign of things to come. As more and more companies start to recognize the shear reach of a GPS platform, they will start to push their brands into the devices recognizing the power to pull in customers. TeleAtlas recently announced a program to allow companies to insert their locations and one would think eventually their branded icons into the map database.
While PC Mag doesn’t call it a true winner, but the LOOX N100 has some definite appeal.
ReadMore at PC Mag
DeLorme Earthmate BT-20 Bluetooth GPS Receiver
DeLorme, the company that pioneered GPS for laptops and PDAs, has now introduced the Earthmate GPS BT-20, a uniquely versatile solution for deploying GPS navigation on either Bluetooth-enabled PDAs and touch-screen phones, and on USB laptop PCs.
“The Earthmate GPS BT-20 provides the broadest spectrum of hardware-GPS compatibility on the market,” said DeLorme Marketing Director Caleb Mason. “It supports both Palm OS and Windows Mobile devices, and laptop PCs with or without Bluetooth. Even if you have a Bluetooth-enabled laptop, there are still going to be times when you’d prefer a USB connection. The Earthmate GPS BT-20 gives you that flexibility.”
Continue reading: "DeLorme Earthmate BT-20 Bluetooth GPS Receiver"
March 21, 2007
Free TomTom ONE
I love the recent price cut on the TomTom ONE that lowered the price to below $300, well how about a free TomTom ONE. TomTom generously donated a TomTom ONE as a give away for a contest running over at the TomTomForums (unaffiliated with the TomTom company). So go on over to the forums and check them out to see what the rules are to get a free TomTom ONE.
March 20, 2007
Garmin GPS in Hondas for Europe
Garmin has been selected as the exclusive supplier of compact navigation devices to Honda Access Europe N.V. The customized units (a derivative of a Nuvi 360) will be available for six different Honda models of vehicle including the Civic (3 door and 5 door), Accord Sedan, Accord Tourer and CR-V.
The unit is a custom product with features that are specifically designed to complement Honda vehicles. It contains a preloaded Honda database so drivers can always find their nearest dealership and has a custom dash board attachment with an integrated power supply. There is a unique mount for each vehicle dash board, which means no visible wiring and when the navigation device is removed, a matching cap discretely hides the mount.
Continue reading: "Garmin GPS in Hondas for Europe"
Hot Selling Nuvi 350 at Amazon - $399
Just thought I would point out how fast people can jump on a well priced solid GPS. The Garmin Nuvi 350 that was dropped $50 to $399 at Amazon this past week is now the #2 seller in electronics, right behind an $11 USB drive. That's pretty impressive.
If you doubted the demand for GPS units at all, you’d have to look at this and think that we’re sitting on a gusher here.
Should be interesting to see what happens when the Nuvi 200/250/270 line goes on sale later this year.
Nuvi 350 at Amazon
March 19, 2007
Video: New iGo Software - 3-D buildings
The new iGo navigation software is being shown off as promised, and some pictures and video have surfaced out of the CeBit show. Pocket GPS World is showing the iGo software that runs the Mio line of GPS devices, which is why it is interesting to see that the video taken shows the new 3-D routing with 3-D buildings being shown on the Mio H610. I am not blown away yet with the capability as shown, but it has hints of a really different navigational experience to come.
The H610 has a beautiful graphics capability that I enjoyed when I reviewed it, so it's not a surprise to see them using the unit to show off their new software. I also would imagine that this is another hint that the newest iGo capabilities will be on the Mio systems soon.
Update: (I'll include the link this time....) More at Pocket GPS World
Mio Looks to Europe - 1.6 Million Units
DigiTimes is reporting that Mio has set a goal of shipping 1.6 million GPS units into Europe in 2007, achieving an 11% share of the market. That's a pretty aggressive goal, considering that TomTom has 50+% of the market and Garmin is below 20% share of the market.
Mio has announced the newest line including the C320, C520 and C520t at CeBit. This would all springboard off the popular C310x for the US, and the current C220, C510E and C710 in Europe.
March 17, 2007
GPS Steals and Deals - 3/17
Big news for the week has to be CeBit GPS Announcements:
Garmin Nuvi 200 series; also, I have a Nuvi 250 in for review.
Navigon 5100 and 7100 with innovative displays.
Garmin announced the Nuvi 600, 650 and 660FM
Mio and their C320, C520 and 520t
The best deal of the week has to be the Lowrance 250C for $177, with an additional $10 off if you use Google Checkout. The Lowrance 250C looks like a decent entry level GPS. Haven't used it myself, but PCMag reviewed it.
Highlights
Garmin Nuvi 350 dropped to $399,
Garmin Nuvi 360 adds Bluetooth to the Nuvi 350 capabilities and is now around $479.
Both of the above dropped about $50 this week.
TomTom ONE - around $280 See my Review of the TomTom ONE.
TomTom GO 510 - $367
TomTom GO 910 - $457
TomTom RIDER - $599
The usual Steals and Deals
Fry's is still blowing out the Mio C310x at $189 . Sunday Paper Insert has Staples selling the MIo C310x for $199 (although a quick check of their site doesn't offer the C310x).
More Info on the C310X from GPSLodge.
Price drop on Mio H610 travel companion - now $379 - see my review.
Garmin Forerunner Rebate - $50 back on a Forerunner 205 or 305, which drops the prices down significantly.
Other GPS's. Here’s a quick rundown:
Garmin Nuvi 660 - Price around $710 at Amazon. See our review - Also check out the GPSNow site for what has been often a lower price, and Order by 5PM weekdays, you get same day cheap shipping.
Garmin Nuvi 670 - Need to travel to Europe and navigate when you get there? Garmin Nuvi 670 comes pre-loaded with both US and Euro maps. It's the very capable Nuvi 660 base unit with the extra maps pre-loaded.
Garmin StreetPilot C330 – Now around $275 for this very capable, maps pre-loaded device.
Garmin StreetPilot C340 – Think about moving up to the Garmin StreetPilot C530 whose price is down to $389. Won't speak street names, but Better chipset, and better screen for less money.
March 16, 2007
Nuvi 250 Arrives for Review at GPSLodge
Update: I have posted my Review of the Nuvi 250
Well, the Garmin Nuvi 250 was officially announced yesterday, and I am happy to say that we have a new Nuvi 250 at the GPS Lodge for review. The Nuvi 250 is a very stylish and attractive unit, that has some classic lines making it new, but distinctively a Nuvi. It's amazingly small and has a bit of that uncontrollable appeal that comes with holding an iPod for the first time. You roll it around in your hands a few times, put it down and then pick it up and do it again. It appears above next to a Garmin C340, which is part of the older C-series that the Nuvi 200 series is thought to be replacing.
The Nuvi 200 series will be differentiated by their map content. The Nuvi 200 will have the continental US, the Nuvi 250, will have North America (all US+Canada+Puerto Rico), while the Nuvi 270 will follow in the footsteps of its big brothers, the Nuvi 370 and Nuvi 670 to add North American AND Euro maps pre-loaded.
The Nuvi 250 has a 3.5 inch touchscreen and comes with NAVTEQ maps/POI's weighing in with over 6 million POI locations.
Continue reading: "Nuvi 250 Arrives for Review at GPSLodge"
Magellan Maestro 4000, 4040 and 4050 Available for Pre-order
Magellan recently announced the introduction of the Maestro series of three new portable vehicle navigation devices. The new Magellan Maestro 4000, Maestro 4040 and Maestro 4050 are now available for pre-order at Amazon.
The Maestro 4050 offers voice input as well as the widescreen that comes on each of the Maestro navigation systems.
at Amazon:
Maestro 4000,
Maestro 4040
Maestro 4050
March 15, 2007
More on the Garmin Nuvi 200, 250, 270
The Garmin Nuvi 200 series was officially announced after being leaked a few days ahead of time. Included here are some information and links about the newest Nuvi to the line-up.
Reviews
We have the Garmin Nuvi 250 in for review at the GPS Lodge.
My Review of the Nuvi 200/250/270 is now posted.
Craig Ellison has a review up at the PC Mag site. I think he missed the mark on a couple of points; follow the link to see why.
CNet has their review up of the Garmin Nuvi 200.
Garmin Nuvi Product pages:
Garmin Nuvi 200
Garmin Nuvi 250
Garmin Nuvi 270
Check out the Garmin Nuvi 200 series Mini-site
Other News:
Compare the Nuvi 200/250/270 vs the Nuvi 350/360/370.
New of the new Garmin Nuvi 200W and 250W
The Garmin Nuvi 200 series is available At Amazon:
Garmin Nuvi 200
Garmin Nuvi 250
Garmin Nuvi 270
Compare the Nuvi 200 vs. 250 vs. 270
The only differences between the units are the pre-loaded maps:
Nuvi 200 preloaded street maps, European regional coverage or continental U.S., Hawaii and Puerto Rico
Nuvi 250 preloaded street maps, full coverage
Nuvi 270 preloaded street maps, full coverage for U.S. and Europe
Specifications on the Garmin Nuvi 200 series:
Continue reading: "More on the Garmin Nuvi 200, 250, 270"
NAVTEQ 3-D City Models
NAVTEQ announced the availability of a new suite of Visual Content designed to enhance the digital map experience by providing relevant visual context for users of location-based and navigation applications. Two types of content are being launched: three-dimensional models of major cities and three-dimensional landmarks of prominent and important structures in and around those cities. That should make navigation a very different experience. I would imagine that this will add a burden to the GPS unit in terms of storage space and video display capabilities. If you thought 3-D capabilities were good now, I can’t wait for this. Hummm, so who uses NAVTEQ predominantly? Garmin and Magellan.... If this is as good as NAVTEQ says it is and can be implemented quickly, expect a GPS with this capability before the holidays, if not straight forward, look for it at CES or CeBit in 2008.
More after the jump...
Continue reading: "NAVTEQ 3-D City Models"
Navigon 5100 and 7100
Navigon has announced the Navigaon 5100 and 7100 GPS navigation systems at CeBit, and while I have run into some devices with Navigon software that I didn’t like, they have a new interface that looks fantastic and offers what they call “Reality View”. This innovative approach sets you in the driver’s seat and it shows the road laid out ahead of you on the GPS receiver, with signs overhead, and a directional arrow that shows you where to go.
The Navigon 7100 has a 4.3 inch widescreen, while the Navigon 5100 has a normal aspect ratio 3.5 inch screen. The designs are fresh and sleek looking with a Samsung 400 Mhz processor and some serious features to keep you going: Speed assistant, lane Assistant, Voice input, and a log book. The 7100 will come with TMC capability, and it is Bluetooth compatible.
Prices are about 450 – 500 Euros for the Navigon 7100 and 350 – 400 Euros for the Navigon 5100 depending on the maps that are loaded (regional or pan-Euro).
Via and SlashGear
TeleAtlas Content Link
TeleAtlas took a solid step forward with the announcement of the TeleAtlas Content Link program which will allow faster access to POI sets for location based services. By distributing POI content creation, TeleAtlas increases their ability to publish mountains of data and push it to you and me. So, for the chain of coffee shops, it makes sense for them to make sure that you, the buyer of their coffee, have the most up to date locations available. They have a big profit motive so, it is worth it to them to keep their POI updated in your mobile phone provider's database.
Press Release Follows...
Continue reading: "TeleAtlas Content Link"
Garmin Nuvi 200, 250, 270 at CeBit
Garmin officially announced the nüvi 200, nüvi 250 and nüvi 270 today at CeBit. This was leaked Wednesday, and the details look juicy. The features are sound, the product looks great and the price is sure to please. Garmin clearly saw the opportunity in the value end of the market, and had to have a smile on their face as that end of the market exploded over the holidays in 2006, knowing that they were sitting on these.
The Nuvi 200, Nuvi 250 and Nuvi 270 still offer the ease of use that Garmin is known for and the great flat form factor, as it's about 105 slimmer than the Nuvi 350, and these flat units are sweeping bulkier GPS units off the market.
Make sure you stop back to the GPS Lodge tonight for more news on the Nuvi 200.
Update: We have the Garmin Nuvi 250 in for review at the GPS Lodge.
More after the jump...
Continue reading: "Garmin Nuvi 200, 250, 270 at CeBit"
Garmin Nuvi 600, Nuvi 650 and Nuvi 660FM
Garmin announced several new widescreen navigators – the Nuvi 600, Nuvi 650, and Nuvi 660FM. The Nuvi 600 is a base widescreen model that will offer regoinalized maps, the Nuvi 650 will have Euro maps, while the Nuvi 660FM will add an FM modulator to the existing capabilities of the Euro model.
“The nüvi is an indispensable travel tool,” said Dan Bartel, Garmin’s vice president of worldwide sales. “Whether you’re navigating in a car or you’re using the nüvi’s pedestrian mode and walking, the nüvi 600-series’ widescreen makes traveling from point A to point B straight-forward and convenient.”
Continue reading: "Garmin Nuvi 600, Nuvi 650 and Nuvi 660FM"
Garmin and GPSBuddy - Workforce Management
Garmin announced that Garmin Mobile XT can now be paired with GPS Buddy on virtually any GPS handset or Bluetooth wireless-enabled smartphone -- providing complete mobile resource management that is designed to enhance the productivity of a workforce. This underlines the surge into Mobile Phone and/or location based services that is happening around us now.
"Paired with GPS Buddy, Garmin Mobile XT gives companies the tools they need to ensure their business runs smoothly," said Roger Jollis, Garmin's director of OEM and mobile marketing. "And since many mobile workforces already own smartphones, incorporating Garmin Mobile XT and GPS Buddy is a cost-effective solution as well."
Continue reading: "Garmin and GPSBuddy - Workforce Management"
March 14, 2007
Mio C320, Mio C520, Mio C520t
More news about upcoming new Mio GPS units; the Mio C320, C520 and C520t are being talked about at CeBit, and they are showing up with 4.3 inch widescreens. The units were pre-announced at CES in Las Vegas.
The higher end C520 and C520t have handsfree Bluetooth kits and the C520t comes with TMC traffic receiver capabilities. The units are SiRF star III equipped and will run the Mio Map 3.3 version that will also include the newest TeleAtlas maps (Yea!).
In an interesting move, Mio is using the screen real estate to offer you a split screen when navigating to offer you the next four turns, traffic information or a view of POI’s that are close. The Mio C320, C520 and the Mio C520t should be available in April, with a price of 349 €, 399 € and 449 €.
I’ll try to dig and get news for the US release and get back to you.
Via
Location Based Services set to Boom
Frequent readers of GPS Lodge may have seen that I expect mobile phone navigation to explode this year, and here is an article that talks about the broader landscape of location based services and how it is ready to more than double in sales this year and next. According to an article on Computer World, Brent Iadarola, an analyst at Frost & Sullivan, said revenues for location services in the U.S. were about $208 million last year, but that number that should hit $605 million by the end of this year and is expected to double to $1.3 billion at the end of 2008. The number of users of location services by the end of 2008 should exceed 17 million, and it will reach nearly 70 million in 2011, he said.
Roughly speaking this includes mobile phone navigation but it also includes services that help track municipal vehicles, and allow you to track your running workouts via your mobile phone. Big growth ahead!
ReadMore at Computer World
New GPS at CeBit
On the eve of CeBit, I wanted to round up what we already know and talk a bit more about the GPS market in the US. We already know about new units from TomTom, Garmin, as well as some new iGo navigation software which is the navigation engine for the Mio line; hopefully the Mio line will upgrade with the core iGo software upgrade.
TomTom will launch the:
TomTom ONE XL – widescreen version of the TomTom ONE
TomTom GO 715 - a connected TomTom GO unit with a SIM chip in it for mobile phone system connectivity and the
TomTom Duo – an integrated stereo and navigation unit.
Garmin will launch the:
Nuvi 200/250/270 line that is expected to be a lower end addition to the Nuvi line to replace the older StreetPilot C-series.
Magellan Will Show off the Maestro Line:
The Magellan Maestro 4000, 4040, and the Maestro 4050 with voice command capabilities will be at CeBit.
Expect other announcements from Navigon, Holux, iGo, Mio, Sanyo, Trimble and dozens of other companies that are racing to the market with GPS navigation systems
March 13, 2007
Garmin Nuvi 200/250/270 GPS at CeBit
Update: The Garmin Nuvi 200, 250, 270 have been officially launched.
Update: We have the Garmin Nuvi 250 in for review at the GPS Lodge.
We're pretty excited to hear about new CeBit announcements, and one that has been leaked is the Garmin Nuvi 200. According to the DigiTimes, Garmin will unveil a new entry level GPS that has a low cost structure that will have it replace the current Garmin C-series that is getting a little old; reliable, but old. I much prefer the flat form factor of the Nuvi line. With the Nuvi 350 retailing online for $450 or so, I would hope and expect this to have a list price of $349 - $399, and retail for $299 - $349 online.... but who knows maybe we'll even be dropping to below the magical $200 price point by the holidays. (Total speculation here.....)
While the Nuvi 200 is lower in price, it still appears that it will come with the traveler aids like a currency converter. Check out the Danish Garmin site with the unit already pre-loaded into the site.
Expect a Nuvi 250 and a Nuvi 270 (Euro and US maps, like the 370, and 670 models) too.
I have to say that I am pretty happy to hear that they are launching a low end Nuvi, as I called for just such an entry last fall when I said that Garmin should launch a value oriented GPS that took on the flat form factor of the Nuvi.
We'll keep you posted as we hear more.
More at DigiTimes
Via GPS Tracklog
Video - Verizon VZ Navigator
So, if you were wondering what navigation looks like on the Verizon VZ Navigator system, the video clip below will give you a quick idea of how things go. Obviously if you were going to do this longterm, you might invest in a dash mount for the phone, but despite the jerkiness of the video it does give you a good idea of the quality of the turn indications. The folks over at Mobileburn.com brought you this one, and I am happy that they did. You should watch for when the Police Cruiser swings by; I swear from the camera angle he almost hits the cruiser!
March 12, 2007
Thieves Target Marine GPS Units Too
So while you may know that stolen GPS units are on the rise for automobiles, you should also know that stolen GPS units in boats are a hot commodity too. So while you might be paying a few hundred dollars for your auto unit, boat owners regularly pay a few thousand for theirs, and that hurts a lot when it goes missing. One boat owner found out the hard way that his GPS unit wasn't safe... thieves came in clipped the wires and took off. Apparently he isn't the only one in the area.
ReadMore
March 11, 2007
Nuvi 680 Available Exclusively at Best Buy; Pre-order Elsewhere
In the Sunday newspaper, Best Buy ran a spread that says that they have the new Garmin Nuvi 680 exclusively on sale at Best Buy for $999. Interesting move by Garmin; hope they got something from Best Buy for the favorable treatment.
A quick check around: The Nuvi 680 is available for pre-sale at Amazon (same $999) and on other sites, it's not even up on the site yet. The hope you be that the Nuvi 680 would be broadly available within a few weeks or so.
Get a whole lot more information on the Garmin Nuvi 680.
Stay tuned....
March 10, 2007
Steals and Deals - 3/10
Just catching up with all the goings on this past week:
GPS Unit News
Magellan Maestro 4000, 4040, 4050 Officially Announced
TomTom GO 715 leaked
Garmin Zumo 550 Major Software upgrade
Magellan Crossover Review
Dual NavAtlas XNav 3550 Review
Mapping News
TeleAtlas Q&A Session - lots of reader questions answered.
NAVTEQ completes deal on buying Traffic.com
The best deal of the week has to be the Lowrance 250C for $177, with an additional $10 off if you use Google Checkout. The Lowrance 250C looks like a decent entry level GPS. Haven't used it myself, but PCMag reviewed it.
Continue reading: "Steals and Deals - 3/10"
March 9, 2007
Geocaching as Advertising
Students are cleverly using Geocaching to promote Coke these days in an advertising competition. Longtime the promoter of Garmin GPS units and Jeep SUV's geocaching has gone more mainstream and caught the eye of these students as a way to connect with consumers. So the idea is just an idea, not an actual event.... yet.
The idea is to go to the Coke Geocaching website, plug in your zip code to find a Coke Geocache and when you do you find a big box of Coke schwag. Don't know how you keep the first person from raiding the treasure chest, but I like the idea.
ReadMore at RedandBlack.com
March 8, 2007
Magellan CrossoverGPS Review
The Magellan Crossover GPS system is really the first GPS system to market itself as an automobile and outdoor capable GPS. A lot of people ask about the ability to use their auto GPS for Geocaching, and this is certainly one of them.
Garmin has had the ability in the Quest products to load both road and topo maps, but the “Crossover” concept is a good one, and PC Mag has taken a look at the entry from Magellan in their review of the Magellan Crossover. The flat form factor unit comes with road maps pre-loaded, and has the ability to accept topographic maps as well. It is splashproof to IPX4 standards, and according to Craig Ellison of PC Mag, it has excellent battery life. The unit comes pre-loaded with NAVTEQ road maps of the US and has text-to-speech “Say Where” capability. TOPO maps can be bought for an additional $129-$149.
ReadMore at PCMag
At Amazon
March 7, 2007
Magellan Maestro 4000, 4040, 4050 Officially Launched
It's official, after
a leak last week, Magellan announced the Magellan Maestro GPS line today, the first line of GPS systems that were developed post-Shah Capital take-over.
Magellan announced today the introduction of the Maestro series of three new portable vehicle navigation devices offering drivers the best design and navigation experience available. As a result of a partnership with AAA, (American Automobile Association), the new Magellan Maestro 4000, Maestro 4040 and Maestro 4050 are the only car navigation solutions to offer the North American public access to integrated AAA TourBook travel information and member roadside assistance details. In addition, the Maestro 4050 is the first portable vehicle navigation device to offer drivers the convenience of voice command capabilities. The new Maestro series offers enhanced functions and features - from a newly designed user interface and a 4.3” WQVGA touch screen for better ease of use and visibility, to Bluetooth hands-free calling capabilities to minimize driver distractions and real-time traffic services to help drivers reach their destination faster - so every driver will find a solution that best meets their navigation needs.
Continue reading: "Magellan Maestro 4000, 4040, 4050 Officially Launched"
Inrix Accuracy and Coverage Benchmarking
So Inrix has a news item out that has them claiming superior coverage and “highly accurate” traffic speed rates, that are comparable to Traffic.com. Incidentally NAVTEQ officially closed their acquisition today of Traffic.com. Traffic.com claims a higher degree of accuracy in the world, and Inrix has been working hard to prove that their data is equally high quality. It may seem meaningless to you, but they are vying for a role in what I expect will be a lucrative traffic flow and prediction business as GPS units are broadly adopted and as mobile phones become more and more integrated with navigation.
Press Release Follows….
Continue reading: "Inrix Accuracy and Coverage Benchmarking"
NAVTEQ Closes Acquisition of Traffic.com
NAVTEQ today completed its previously announced acquisition of Traffic.com, Inc. (NASDAQ: TRFC), a leading provider of personalized traffic information for drivers coast-to-coast.
In accordance with the terms of the acquisition, as announced on November 6, 2006, NAVTEQ acquired all the outstanding shares of common stock of Traffic.com. The total consideration to be paid in the transaction is approximately $177 million, subject to pending elections by stockholders and certain option holders of Traffic.com.
Continue reading: "NAVTEQ Closes Acquisition of Traffic.com"
TeleAtlas Q&A Session
TomTom and their mapping provider sat down with a list of questions sent in by consumers and answered a whole bunch of them. TeleAtlas and TomTom have been battling back over some mapping issues, and appear to be on the mend. From what I hear, the maps are greatly improved and should not be considered an issue. Anyway, there are some interesting questions over there that TeleAtlas answered.
Here's a list of the Questions: (after the jump)
Continue reading: "TeleAtlas Q&A Session"
Garmin Zumo 550 Software Update
The Garmin Zumo 550 launched last year, and has done pretty well in the marketplace as more and more people cruise the roadways on their motorcycle, and more and more want the confidence of a GPS. Garmin's recent software update for the Zumo 550 looks like it's the product of some good solid consumer research, listening to requests and changing how the Zumo interacts with the rider.... and just in time for the 2007 riding season which is beginning in the warmer areas.... me? I am walking out into single digit temps this morning, but I digress.
Here's a partial list of the updated features:
Allow panning from main map. Touching vehicle on main map displays coordinates and elevation in save dialog.
Added more fields to the trip computer including fuel gauge odometer.
Enabled compass display full time with additional data fields.
Enhanced XM weather support which is available from XM button on the main menu.
Enhanced traffic incident reporting.
Added support for SDHC cards and increased MP3 playlist limit to 1000 songs.
Added Audible books support.
Added option to limit BT headset audio to phone only.
Added option to display track log on map.
Modified import /share pictures to work directly from jpeg viewer without the checklist.
Disables auto-zoom operation when off-road.
Updated US/Canada Daylight Saving time support.
Use your Webupdater program to update the software.
More at Garmin Blogs
March 6, 2007
Dual NavAtlas XNAV3550 Review
CNet has a review up of the Dual NavAtlas XNav3550, and they weren't impressed, giving it a 5.6 out of 10 rating. The unit features a 3.5-inch touchscreen, and pre-loaded maps of the US, along with a SiRF star III chipset. The unit has a Navigon navigation software interface, which they found difficult to get around. It is the same software that is used on the Delphi NAV200 - see my review. I think that the software is a bit hard to get around, but in my experience, the unit did a respectable job of navigation.
Design-wise, the unit has a couple of nubs on each side that are used to give you a visual indication of which way to turn. CNet likes the feature; I am unconvinced until I use it. This could be a major distraction, or a nice help.
Overall, CNet says that the unit will get you from point A to B without much issue, but thinks that there are some other value plays out there to look for.
Read the entire Review of the Dual NavAtlas 3550 at CNet
March 5, 2007
New TomTom GO 715 GPS for CeBit
Another day another FCC leak of a new TomTom model that will undoubtedly show up at CeBit 2007 as part of a new GPS line up for TomTom. The TomTom GO 715 is based on the fat (non-flat) base for the rest of the GO line, and has bluetooth capability and a SIM card slot which should allow you to call in and out with the unit. The bigger play here in the face of
Dash Navigation coming out with a WiFi and Cellular connected unit is that the TomTom 715 will start to pave the way for the mass market connectedness that we all have been crying for. Downside - another subscription.
In looking at the manual, you can see that the unit with SIM card, will allow for some nice TomTom WORK capabilities. With TomTom WORK, the dispatch can send locations and addresses directly to the GO 715, allowing for nice routing and de-centralized planning. Smart move on TomTom's part; who buys a lot of these things at once? Fleets. The Cable Guy recently came to our house using a GPS, but In talking with him about it, the fuctionality offered by TomTom WORK would be a big help.
One Question: Will we see a GO 515 and GO 915 before the week is out?
See the FCC Site Details
Via Engadget and GPSGazette
TomTom ONE XL at CeBit?
More FCC information on the upcoming TomTom line that I expect to be announced at CeBit 2007 along with other new GPS units. The TomTom ONE XL (Or whatever the real name may be) appears to be a 4:3 widescreen version of the new popular (and low priced TomTom ONE). Long time readers may remember when I called for a "TomTom one.five" last summer, my name for a widescreen TomTom ONE, when writing up a few things I thought TomTom should do. (I'm not taking credit for the idea; they are smart people at TomTom.)
UPDATE: The TomTom ONE XL has been officially announced
I love new models, and here's to all the new models we'll see at CeBit.
Via
TeleAtlas to provide BMW Maps
Tele Atlas announced it has signed an agreement with the BMW Group to provide digital map data and local search content for the next generation driver information/navigation systems in BMW vehicles in the United States, Canada, Mexico, Australia, New Zealand, Singapore and Malaysia.
Under the OEM agreement, a first for Tele Atlas with BMW, select BMW vehicle navigation systems will contain Tele Atlas maps starting in 2008; additional navigation systems are expected to be powered by Tele Atlas maps starting in 2009.
“This agreement firmly substantiates Tele Atlas’ position as the accuracy and innovation leader in digital mapping, with the coverage and content that meets the needs of some of the most sophisticated in-car navigation system users in the world,” said Alain De Taeye, co-founder and CEO, Tele Atlas. “In many ways, the in-car navigation market set the standard for digital maps, and triggered many of the innovations that are now driving the personal navigation and wireless markets. We expect our work with BMW to help us bring continued innovation to all the digital map markets we serve.”
Cobra Sales up 14% - Led by GPS
Cobra Electronics also caught the wave of strong GPS sales with their new NavOne 2500 unit selling well through the holidays. Overall sales were up 14%, mainly driven by a 62% increase in GPS sales, while earnings were down on one time events.
"Cobra turned in a solid quarter as we continued to recover from the losses earlier this year," said Jim Bazet, Cobra's President and Chief Executive Officer. "We were particularly pleased by the increase in sales of mobile navigation products, led by our newest entry in this market, the NAV ONE 2500. This product was featured on one of the home shopping cable channels during the recent holiday shopping season and sold more than 23,000 units in a 24-hour period. This strong consumer acceptance of our newest generation of mobile navigation products is highly promising for the platform that will drive the growth of this business in the future."
They are also happy to announce that they have national distribution of the Cobra NavOne 2100, which was announced at CES 2007 in January. The NavOne 2100 will ship in March and have a list price of $299. Nice!
TeleAtlas Earnings up 43%
In the rolling tide of positive earnings, TeleAtlas is keeping step with everyone else and reported great earnings for the fourth quarter, a 43% increase to €82.8 million. This was driven by Ongoing strong personal navigation revenue growth in 2006 of 104% over the prior year. Wireless navigation accelerated with new partnerships... looks like 2007 is going to be a good year for mobile phone nav!
Alain De Taeye, Chief Executive Officer, says: “This was an excellent year for us, with strong growth in revenue and Adjusted EBITDA. We signed important strategic partnerships, expanded the Company’s global footprint, launched our next generation database and secured growth in both traditional and emerging map markets. We remain focused on providing the best digital maps and the most useful local search content that helps navigation system and location-based solutions users find the people, places and products most important in their daily lives.”
More at TeleAtlas
March 4, 2007
March 2, 2007
GPS Steals and Deals - 3/2
Just catching up with all the goings on this week and last:
New GPS Units
TomTom Duo Rumors
New GPS models from Uniden
New - Magellan Maestro 3000, 4040, 4050 - with Voice activation
Mio/Mitac is buying Navman
and for all you Boston Red Sox Fans out there, get the Curt Schilling Voice on your TomTom.
Prices on the TomTom line continue to eek down after the big price drop ahead of what looks like big new GPS announcements coming out of CeBit 2007 in a week or so...
TomTom ONE - around $280 (a total steal...) See my Review of the TomTom ONE.
TomTom GO 510 - $380
TomTom GO 910 - $465
TomTom RIDER - $524
The usual Steals and Deals
Fry's is out of the Mio C310x - no more $198 there!
Garmin Forerunner Rebate - $50 back on a Forerunner 205 or 305, which drops the prices down significantly.
The Nuvi 350 - Best Selling GPS at Amazon -
Garmin Nuvi 350– recent price drops put it around $450.
Garmin Nuvi 360 adds Bluetooth and is now around $530.
Other GPS's. Here’s a quick rundown:
Garmin Nuvi 660 - Price around $720 at Amazon. See our review - Also check out the GPSNow site for what has been often a lower price, and Order by 5PM weekdays, you get same day cheap shipping. TheNerds has the Nuvi 660 for $701 - Use coupon code: affgoo3 for another $10 off if you use Google Checkout.
Garmin StreetPilot C330 – Now around $275 for this very capable, maps pre-loaded device.
Garmin StreetPilot C340 – Think about moving up to the Garmin StreetPilot C530 whose price is down to $377. Won't speak street names, but Better chipset, and better screen for less money.
Arctic Travels with GPS - The Arctic Arc
So I thought I was tough going for my geocaching hikes aroud the woods, stopping off for a quick water stop... how about trekking over 2,600 miles from Siberia to Greenland on skis? Apparently a Garmin GSPMAP 60CSX (See my Garmin GPSMap 60CSx review) is guiding them in their travels. The planned 110 day trek got underway yesterday, and will be part of educational programs along the way.
You can track the progress at the Arctic Arc website.
Via Garmin Blogs
Verizon VZ Navigator Review
PC Mag has a good review up on one of the more popular navigation applications for the mobile phone crowd, the Verizon VZ Navigator. As more and more mobile phones hit the market that are GPS enabled, wireless companies are hitting the market with navigation services, and according to the market insiders I talk to, mobile phone based navigation is going to hit hard in 2007.
The timely review walks through the capabilities of the system, and hits on the highlights, including the easy to use interface, the good text-to-speech capabilities and as a result of the information being stored on Verizon's computers, the POI database is robust. Many value level stand alone GPS units rely on "[low] millions" of POI, but the original databases have more than 10 million POI. With the large capacity and ability to stream the data to your phone, Verizon can offer the bigger dataset easily. The downside is that you need to keep in contact with cellular towers, which may be sparse in some rural areas.
ReadMore at PC Mag
March 1, 2007
Garmin Nuvi 680
The Garmin Nuvi 680 is a widescreened (4.3-inch) Garmin Nuvi that followed the successful Nuvi 660 into the market. It was announced in early 2007 at the CES show in Las Vegas, and makes a solid first step for Garmin in the connectedness game for their GPS line.
It keeps with the thin is in Nuvi Form Factor, and offers traveler's aids (audiobook, music, conversion calculator, etc) in addition to navigation. The Nuvi 680 also features a very bright screen that in my use stands up to direct sunlight so that you can see what the GPS has to tell you in the brightest conditions.
The big news for the Nuvi 680 is that it is equipped with MSN direct, that allows the unit to receive data through the FM band including Traffic reports, Weather forecasts, local gas prices, and local movie information.
Continue reading: "Garmin Nuvi 680"
Uniden MapTrax GPS352 and GPS402
After a bit of a delay, Uniden has entered the GPS market in the US with the launch of their previously announced units - MapTrax GPS352 and MapTrax GPS402 GPS systems.
The units will be flat form factors and will be powered by NAVTEQ maps. The GPS402 will feature a 4-inch touchscreen, while the GPS352 will feature the more common 3.5-inch touchscreen. Both have SiRF star III chipsets.
More at Uniden
Original Press Release follows…
Continue reading: "Uniden MapTrax GPS352 and GPS402"
Garmin Adopting MediaTek GPS Chips?
Word has it that Garmin is looking at MediaTek GPS chipsets for some of its GPS units moving forward. This is the second sign that SiRF is taking hits in the market, as TomTom moved its TomTom ONE over to Global Locate chips earlier this year. So as technology catches up and prices drop, it's not a big surprise to see manufacturers look at new suppliers. The price pressure has got to be intense in the GPS world right now, and while the chipset reportedly costs around $10, the map data license costs upwards to $50 per unit. I would imagine that the mapping folks are under pressure too.
Via DigiTimes
Google Maps with Traffic Feeds
Google Maps started implementing live traffic feeds into their major metro areas; just click the traffic button. The traffic flow indications show up as the familiar red/yellow/green shadings onto popular commuting roadways. So while Yahoo has implemented traffic feeds on its mapping service, they don't have feed data totally rolled out for many major metro cities, as Boston and some others I spot checked only had incident data.
Bottom line - traffic data is more fully embedding itself into familiar consumer based applications, and expect this to drive the recognition of the benefits. Let's hope that these services also bring historical average speeds and then speed based routing to the masses, so that even in the worst traffic, travel times can be accurate and maybe help you get around the traffic instead of through it.
At Google Maps
Thanks to Jim for sending this in.
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