Posts Tagged ‘gps review’

The Garmin-Asus nuvifone G60 Buzz… Part 2

Friday, February 13th, 2009

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So in Part 1 we discussed Garmin’s plan to partner with  Asus and release the new version of Garmin nuvifone.  In part 2  we are going to take a look at all the specifications of the new Garmin-Asus G60 nuvifone expected to be released next week at Mobile World.

Before we list the specs; the Garmin nuvifone will be easy to used and its primary focus is to coming navigation, web content, and communication.  Each Garmin nuvifone will be LBS-centric Smartphones that will have a number of different platforms based on individual users.  These include social careerist, travel buffs, and tech geeks.

Here are the complete specs:

  • 2G Connectivity:Quad-band GSM / GPRS / Edge 850/900/1800/1900
  • 3G Connectivity: 850/1900/2100 HSDPA 3.6 Mbps
  • Other Connectivity:802.11 b/g WLAN, Bluetooth, HFP, HSP, AVRCP, A2DP mini-USB 2.0
  • OS: Linux
  • Dimensions: 112 x 58.1 x 14.6 mm
  • Weight: 137g (battery included)
  • Display: 3.55″ 65K colors, anti-glare resistive touchscreen
  • Display Resolution: 272 x 480 WQVGA
  • Camera/Photos: 3MP camera with auto-focus and geo-tagging
  • Flash Memory: 4GB on-board 128 MB RAM
  • Expandable Memory: Micro SD, HC Capable, expandable up to 16GB
  • Music Player: MP3 capable
  • Headphone Jack: 2.5 mm
  • Battery: 1100 mAh removable/rechargeable lithium cell
  • Email: POP3, IMAP 4, IMAP idle, SMTP
  • Internet: HTML browser based on Webkit platform
  • Calendar/PIM: Outlook contacts and calendar
  • Productivity: Document viewing: Word, Excel, PowerPoint, PDF, JPG

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The Garmin Nuvifone Buzz… Part 1

Tuesday, February 10th, 2009

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On February 4, 2009 Garmin made a huge announcement about its current partnership with ASUS to “jointly develop, manufacture, market, distribute, and support co-branded mobile phones.”

This is an exciting development as we are all waiting for the release of the Garmin Nuvifone which is slated to come out any day now.  The mission of the partnership between Garmin and ASUS is to offer a line of handsets that provide “social and business functionality” to everyone regardless of class, income, lifestyle, or age.

But why a GPS enabled cell phone, or a GPS smartphone?  We have many theories as to why and Garmin has many researched facts as to why.  From our point of view as a consumer, GPS Smartphones are very much needed in today’s market. Everyone wants everything on their cell phone.  Wouldn’t be amazing if instead of having to buy a smart phone and a portable GPS system; that when you get in the car you could just mount your cell phone an use it as a GPS while still making and receive calls?

That’s exactly what Garmin sees, according to a Canalys forecast “20.4 million integrated-GPS smart phones will shipped in North America in 2008″ and that will rise 85% in three years.  That’s a huge percent, basically 57.2 million smart phones shipped in North America alone.  They also predict a drop in basic handsets.

So what can we expect?  Well Garmin-Asus, as the collaboration is called, will launch several models of the nuvifone this year, the first to be introduced next week Mobile World Congress in 2009.

Stay tuned here for the second part in this series were we delve deeper into the Garmin nuvifone expectations as we wait for February 16 - 19, the first release of the Garmin nuvifone.

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Ferrari Portable Naviagation System by Becker

Thursday, January 29th, 2009

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Becker, the Germany brand, has launched a new GPS navigation system designed after the Ferrari brand.  Seems like technology and car brands are hooking up left and right these days!

Becker’s new portable Navigation system is entitled Traffic Assist Pro Z250, not only is it made of “special” materials, but it also has the soft touch features that have been so popular this year with new navigation devices.  After the iPhone, everyone is sick of jabbing their fingers into screens while driving.

For Ferrari lovers, this navigation device is perfect because it can point you in the direction of every Ferrari dealer in Europe and the United States along with restaurants, movie theaters, gas stations, and other points of interest.

The new Becker navigation device also has the original Ferrari colors, customized Ferrari software, 4.3 inch touch screen, telephone, bluetooth, 3D map views, lane info, turn by turn navigation, and a sleek design.

Some other cool features include a picture viewer which allows you to feature your jpeg files in a slideshow, the speed limit display which warns you if you are going over the speed limit, a day and night mode which adjust the screen brightness automatically, an MP3 player so you can play uploaded music at anytime, and pin entry for the ultimate security.

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OneTouch Magellan Maestro 4370

Tuesday, January 20th, 2009

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The new OneTouch navigation system by Magellan is a one touch customizable GPS navigating giant!  The user has an option to customize all the icons for ease of use.  That way, if you use the restaurants or bank icons the most, you can put them on your home screen.

The Magellan 4370 also includes maps of all of North America including Puerto Rico, Canada, and the United States. Anywhere you want to go, the options are limitless from voice guidance, lane guidance, 3D buildings and live traffic with Pedestrian features.

Other specifications include 10 to 16 feet GPS accuracy, 3 hour battery life, pre loaded maps, 4.3 inch screen, 2GM memory, integrated multidirectional antenna,  and a high impact plastic case.

So what’s in the box?

  • Maestro 4350 GPS receiver
  • AC adapter
  • Vehicle power adapter w/ FM traffic antenna
  • USB data cable
  • Adhesive disc (for dash mounting)
  • Windshield mount
  • Basic cradle
  • Protective pouch
  • Quick Start Guide & Quick Reference Guide
  • Manual on CD-ROM

The Magellan Maestro 4350 cost about $400 and is available at Best Buy… definitely a great way to navigate.

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Portable GPS meets style with the Navman S100

Thursday, January 15th, 2009

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So exactly what happens when GPS meets style?  You get the Navman S100, perhaps one of the most stylish portable GPS to date.  The navigational device measures at 13.5 mm thick with a 4.3 inch widescreen.

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Another cool feature of the Navman S100, is like other devices, it seems to be taking tips from the iPhone when it comes to screen interaction.  Instead of the user jamming his or her finger repeatedly into the screen, a tap and slide motion can be used to navigate between menu options. This is called Glide Touch from the Pioneering ‘Spirit’ software. You can call it whatever you want, but if you could combine the iPhone and a portable GPS the result would be the Navman s100.

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The “Super-flat” widescreen is an indication of a device that is loaded with gps technology.  The Navman s100 has some cool features including Pedestrian mode, geo tagged photos, 3d junction views and land marks, economical routing, MP3 player, and a safety camera.

Via: Navman

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3 GPS Features You Shouldn’t Live Without

Friday, January 2nd, 2009

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Sometimes we buy a GPS system or device and the next day something newer comes out and we could hit ourselves for the lack of research we did which resulted in us purchasing yesterday’s gadget.  However, its 2009 and there are some features that your GPS should have, features that make them worth your money.

Feature 1: Your GPS Should Talk Back and Listen.
Yesterday’s GPS systems talked to you by saying “Hello”, “Turn Left”, and “Destination is to the right”.  However, if you GPS system does not ask you where you want to go and then wait for your answer, then it’s not the best of the best.  Speech-recognition is an important factor to hands free driving and it has to be good.  Some GPS devices do incorporate speech recognition,  but it can be a frustrating experience.  However, today’s speech-recognition has evolved and there are some good options out there.

Feature 2: Your GPS Device Should Stop You From Getting A Ticket
I’ve gotten one recently, and I’m sure you know someone else that has too…the dreaded in the mail ticket because of a red light camera. Sometimes, you forget to yield before turning right on red, however the camera seems to never forget to take your picture.  Today, some GPS devices will give you a warning if you are near a red light camera and that will give you plenty of time to slow down and avoid a ticket.

Feature 3: Your GPS Should Help You Avoid Traffic In Real Time
This is an important feature and an expensive one if you don’t do your homework.  Some GPS devices have real time traffic features already incorporated into the device, however, with some it’s not workable until you buy a receiver which could cost over $200.  Also, most real time traffic features require a subscription fee which can be more affordable, typically $60 to $70 per year. Also, another word of caution, if you don’t want to pay the annual fee you could get real time traffic reporting with advertising flashing across the screen.  That’s a turn off for me; I mean, who would want to be stuck in traffic and forced to watch advertising?

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9 Ways GPS Devices Makes Life Easier and Safer

Friday, December 19th, 2008

GPS devices seem to be all the rage right now.  The technology is coming equipped with more cell phones and cars every day.  But GPS is not a silly gadget being marketed just for the holiday season. On the contrary, there are a variety of ways that GPS technology can help keep you safe and make your life easier every day.

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How GPS Devices Make Your Life Easier and Safer  :

Good directions. Getting lost while trying to find your destination can be much more than an inconvenience.  Criminals often target those individuals who don’t seem to know where they are.  GPS devices help you plan your trip in advance, and stay on course every step of the way.

Pinpointing your location. If you have an accident or a flat tire, many GPS services will call a service station or even alert law enforcement regarding your whereabouts.  When you’re out there alone at night, it is a good feeling to have a connected GPS device in your car.


Keeping your kids safe. A teenager with a driver’s license can be a scary thing for a parent.  Portable GPS devices offer peace-of-mind AND the current whereabouts of your children.  You can even place the device in their car in order to confirm that they are going exactly where they say they are!


Warning you about potential traffic hazards. Real-time GPS devices can alert you to upcoming obstacles in the road or poor weather conditions that may require you to change your speed or driving style on the fly.


Helping you save money. With a GPS device, you won’t have to burn through endless gallons of expensive gas because it always shows you the fastest, most efficient route to get you where you need to be.


Integrates with your phone. More and more GPS systems are coming standard in cars and cell phones.  That means when you need to get to a destination, you can get directions and one-touch calling in an instant.

Find a restaurant or movie. Have you ever driven around when you’re hungry?  It is not a fun experience.  Many GPS devices come pre-programmed with listing of businesses in the area so you can pinpoint a cuisine and get their before the dinner crowd hits its stride.

Help for the golfer. There are now specially designed golf-GPS devices that help those on the links find the hole easily and measure distances so they always hit the perfect shot (sorry, it can’t do anything to help your slice).

Helping businesses stay productive. Businesses of all sizes can use GPS tracking to monitor the whereabouts of their people in the field, and help delivery personnel track the most effective ways to get from Point A to Point B (especially important given the high price of gas).

As GPS technology continues to grow less and less expensive, watch for more people to take advantage of the many applications of these helpful devices.

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