TomTom takes portable navigation devices to the next level
Dutch navigation company TomTom has announced a new line of portable nav devices and a range of new services and
content, as portable navigation devices continue to attack the market for embedded automotive navigation systems.TomTom will roll out its new 910 and 510 models in North America and Europe, and a mid-range 710 model in Europe. The new models feature:
- larger 4-inch screen
- improved GPS performance
- a desktop PC "HOME" dock and HOME software to manage, download and store TomTom content
- enhanced hands-free functionality
- included map coverage for the U.S., Canada and Europe, for all you jet-setters
- integrated MP3 player (and iPod integration)
- text to speech functionality
The company is also rolling out its TomTom PLUS content and service offering for the U.S. and Europe, adding
audiobooks, improving weather coverage and adding road conditions to its realtime traffic service.
Look for
the new products to hit the shelves around the middle of April.
[SourceSource:TomTom]
Reader Comments (Page 1 of 1)
Another Steve 11:31AM (3/06/2006)
Cool products...stupid company name. Second only to Piggly Wiggly in dumb company names.
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paul 1:10PM (3/06/2006)
Great, but does it work with a mac?
TomTom isn't such a bad name. Catchy. Easy to remember. Brilliant ad campaign. I've seen worse.
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Gardiner Westbound 7:51PM (3/06/2006)
TomTom makes far more economic and practical sense than paying a couple of grand for an embedded unit. The in-dash navigation system will go the same way as the hard-wired cell-phone.
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Joshi 8:03PM (3/06/2006)
I heart TomTom.
I actually liked the design of the old units better - they just looked "cute." Of course, most car people probably don't want their navigation system to look cute, so I understand the change.
Maybe when I get a new car this summer, I'll get a new TomTom to match.
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Matt Nelson 3:34PM (3/07/2006)
I have a Navman and it works fine. My biggest problem, is that no one offers a portable with a decent sized screen. The 7 or 8 inch imbedded units have almost 4 times the screen real estate. I hate having to squint to see the directions on a 3" screen.
I also have an issue with security. I have to take the thing off when I park so it doesn't attract attention (the thieving kind).
Matt
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Chris 10:38AM (3/30/2006)
The current TomTom's mostly work with Mac OS X but you can't install the downloadable plus maps at this time. Once the new Home software is out it will be fully compatible. The Home software will be out at the same time as the 510 and 910. You might want to check out this page for more info. http://www.mytomtomgo.com/firmware_6.php
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