It's been a rough little while for so-called connected GPS units, but it looks like TomTom is still confident in the idea, and it's just gotten official with its first such device for the US market: the GO 740 LIVE. As you may recall, this one actually made its debut way back at IFA in the summer, and it looks to be mostly unchanged for its entrance into the US. That includes the standard 4.3-inch touchscreen, 2GB of internal flash memory with a microSD card slot for expansion, handsfree Bluetooth functionality, voice recognition, maps of the US and Canada courtesy of TeleAtlas and, of course, a built-in SIM card slot and GPRS modem to let you take advantage of all those "connected" features. As with the Insignia connected GPS unit, you'll get a year of free service with the device, which certainly makes that $500 price tag a bit more bearable. Look for it to be available sometime in the second quarter of this year.[Via PC Magazine] Filed under: GPSTomTom intros GO 740 LIVE connected GPS originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 09 Jan 2009 09:41:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments

Your options are pretty wide open when it comes to personal GPS trackers, but Xact Technology is hoping to catch your heart by promising no monthly fees for its XACT | TRAX. Hailed as an ideal solution for keeping tabs on pets, loved ones, movable property, etc., the GPS tracking module relies on a proprietary, web based portal in order to see where your subject is and to set "geo-fences." Location requests can be sent via the web or SMS, and readouts are provided on an easy-to-read map along with physical address, date and time. Sadly, we've no price to share, but at least you can rest assured that the cost of entry is it.Filed under: CES, GPSXACT | TRAX personal tracking device requires no monthly subscription originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 09 Jan 2009 09:12:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments

There's no Turbo Boost or anything involved with this bunch, but Mio has launched four mildly interesting navigators for 2009. The new Moovs all sport an improved "Spirit" software platform, and while the S300 features a 3.5-inch panel, text-to-speech and 12 million POIs, the S500 steps up to a 4.7-inch panel. The Moov S556 keeps the same 4.7-inch display but adds in Bluetooth and Junction View, while the S700 breaks out a 7-inch panel. The whole lot is supposed to ship before the second half of this year for $199.99, $249.99, $299.99 and $299.99 in order of mention.[Via GPSTracklog]Filed under: CES, GPSMio launches four new Moov navigators at CES originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 09 Jan 2009 03:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments

Ghost riding a wave of success with the in-car Sync, Ford has unveiled expansions to its Microsoft-fueled communications system. The biggest addition here is turn-by-turn directions and traffic reports (sound familiar?), but it'll also offer news, weather, and sports. The updates will first appear in some 2010 Ford models later this year and will be assimilated into all Ford, Lincoln, and Mercury models by 2011. Services will be free for three years, but no word on the cost after that. Peep the full press release after the break.Continue reading Sync adds turn-by-turn, traffic reports for some 2010 FordsFiled under: GPS, TransportationSync adds turn-by-turn, traffic reports for some 2010 Fords originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 08 Jan 2009 10:56:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.Permalink | Email this | Comments

As if a partnership with Rand McNally wasn't enough, Navigon's giving prospective buyers even more reason to hand over a pinch of their savings. Starting this Spring, Navigon GPS owners will be able to download several new content decks for their devices, including Red Light Camera data, a North American expansion pack, a European map, 3D landmarks and extended POIs. All of the new material will be hosted on the company's Fresh platform, and pricing ranges from $19.99 for each Rand McNally guide to $129.99 for European maps on North American PNDs. Hit up the read link for specifics on each.Filed under: CES, GPSNavigon keeps PNDs fresh with downloadable data packs originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 08 Jan 2009 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.Permalink | Email this | Comments

Qualcomm's mirasol display technology has had quite a rough time gaining mass appeal, but if it could really break into, say, the GPS market, it might just be onto something. Here at CES, G-CORE will be showcasing the first ever GPS device to utilize the tech, though it's probably not the GPS you're dreaming of. The Mini Caddy is simply a GPS Range Finder, though the application makes sense given just how frequently such a device will be viewed in direct sunlight. Within it will be a 1.2-inch bichrome mirasol display, 1GB of internal memory and map data of up to 25,000 golf courses worldwide. Obviously, no pricing or release information has been decided upon, but you catch the release in full after the break.Continue reading Qualcomm's mirasol display tech shuffles into GPS prototypeFiled under: CES, Displays, GPSQualcomm's mirasol display tech shuffles into GPS prototype originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 08 Jan 2009 00:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.Permalink | Email this | Comments

We haven't heard much from SPOT since its Messenger was initially launched in August of 2007, but the personal tracker is finally seeing an update courtesy of some swank new functionality. Announced here at CES, SPOT Assist is meant to provide GPS-based roadside assistance, a first for a portable device such as this. Users who purchase the upgrade will be able to slam the above pictured Help button in order to receive roadside (or jungle-side, as the case may be) service around the clock in the continental United States (and Canada later this Spring). SPOT even notes that OnStar relies on positioning data received through cellular networks, though a bona fide GPS lock should provide a much more accurate indication of your true location. The Messenger is currently selling for $169.99, while SPOT Assist service will run $129 per year; full release is past the break.Continue reading SPOT Assist brings GPS-based roadside assistance to MessengerFiled under: CES, GPSSPOT Assist brings GPS-based roadside assistance to Messenger originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 08 Jan 2009 00:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.Permalink | Email this | Comments

Following an annual tradition, Sony has loosed several new HDR-series camcorders. Stop carrying that silly GPS dongle, as the HDR-XR520V (240GB of storage), HDR-XR500V and HDR-XR200V (both 120GB) pack one onboard along with NAVTEQ maps to geotag photos and videos alike, automatically detect time zone, highlight current map location and possibly save your life during an extended walk through the woods. The 520 and 500 are Sony's first with back-illuminated Exmor R CMOS sensor, providing twice the low light performance of previous models. Smile Shutter, Dolby Digital 5.1 sound recording and 3.2-inch touch panel LCDs are standard across the line, including the low end HDR-XR100 (80GB) model. They start shipping in March for between $1,500 and $750 along with three new SD cams but -- c'mon.Filed under: CES, Digital Cameras, GPS, HDTVSony shows off GPS packing 1080p camcorders originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 07 Jan 2009 19:04:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments

Garmin already got official with a number of new devices earlier today, but it looks like it's now quietly slipped yet another out the door, with the new nuvi 865T making an appearance on the company's website. From the looks of it, this one is a slightly pared down and more silver version of the just-announced 885T, with it packing the same 4.3-inch WQVGA touchscreen display and Bluetooth functionality, but none of that fancy MSN Direct traffic info and other cloud-based services (though it does have an FM traffic receiver). No word on a price just yet, but we're guessing it'll come in a fair bit below the $800 the 885T demands. As GPS Tracklog points out, it also appears that this new 8x5 series has completely replaced the previous 8x0 series, with the latter now residing on the discontinued section of Garmin's website.[Via GPS Tracklog, thanks Rich] Filed under: GPSGarmin rolls out nuvi 865T, ditches 8x0 series originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 07 Jan 2009 17:26:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments

TomTom and Fujitsu Ten are back with a new in-dash nav system. An update of the ECLIPSE AVN2210p, the AVN4430 houses a removable 4.3-inch WQVGA touchscreen TomTom GPS (which also functions as a stand-alone unit), as well as a full-featured CD / DVD / MP3 / WMA player, iPod audio and video support, iPod controls and a USB port. This guy is the winner of the CES Innovations 2009 Design and Engineering award, so keep your eyes peeled for it when you hit Las Vegas.[Via GPS Review]Read - AVN4330 product pageRead - ECLIPSE win the 2009 CES Innovation award Filed under: CES, GPS, TransportationTomTom / ECLIPSE AVN4430 in-dash nav system snags CES Innovations Award originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 07 Jan 2009 12:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments

Garmin's gone all diversity-happy on us this morning with three new chock-full-o-features portable GPS devices. The nüvi 885T is the real flagship here, offering speech recognition, lane assist junction view and MSN Direct traffic info and other cloud-based services. The unit centers on a 4.3-inch 480 x 272 touchscreen, and offers up Bluetooth for hands-free calling and an FM transmitter to pump turn-by-turn instructions and music through your car stereo. Unfortunately, the hotness doesn't come cheap: the 855T goes for $800, with an MSN and Bluetoothless version going for $700. The zūmo 660 is built for motorcycle types, with a 4.3-inch glove and sunlight-friendly touchscreen display. There's Bluetooth for pumping turn-by-turn directions to your helmet headset, and more of that lane assist goodness, but the $800 pricetag might quell your enthusiasm. Finally, the G5 offers up a 3-inch touchscreen, with what sound to be some pretty intuitive tap and drag functionalities. Pictures of the 660 and the G5 are after the break.Read - Garmin nüvi 885TRead - Garmin zūmo 660Read - Garmin G5Continue reading Garmin's new nüvi 885T, zūmo 660 and G5 GPS units for drivers, bikers and golfersFiled under: GPSGarmin's new nüvi 885T, zūmo 660 and G5 GPS units for drivers, bikers and golfers originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 07 Jan 2009 09:34:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.Permalink | Email this | Comments

Not that we haven't seen navigator manufacturers partner up with travel companies before, but it's still pretty rare to hear of a PND maker looking out for the travelers and not just the completely lost crowd. Here at CES, Navigon has just announced a partnership with Rand McNally (the first of its kind, we hear), which will result in Scenic Routers and City Guides from the aforesaid firm being available on Navigon devices. The guides will provide over 250 scenic routers and pre-planned trips across all 50 states (we're guessing the Road To Hana made the cut?) and Canada, and there's also information on the best attractions and landmarks in more than 1,400 US / Canadian cities. The new data packs will be available on select Navigon units as well as in retail outlets and Navigon.com this Spring for $19.99 each.Filed under: CES, GPSNavigon teams with Rand McNally to put a little travel in your PND originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 07 Jan 2009 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.Permalink | Email this | Comments

Little known Lok8u has traveled all the way from the UK to be in Vegas this week, but it's certainly not for the despicable reasons you think. In fact, the locations services company is setting up shop at CES in order to debut its Nuo.M8 GPS child locator, a so-called "innovative new best friend for parents and children." The device is said to be the first of its kind created specifically to be worn by children with the technology "cleverly concealed within a child's digital watch." Granted, the styling is questionable for youngsters over 9 or 10, but by that age they ought to be toting their very own beeper, right? Of note, the watch will also send an alert if it's ever "forcibly removed," though it'll cost you £149.99 ($218) for the peace of mind come Spring.Filed under: CES, GPSLok8u launches Nu•M8 GPS child locator watch at CES originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 06 Jan 2009 17:54:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments

Hey, they don't call this thing the International Consumer Electronics Show for nothing, so it shouldn't come as any big surprise to see Nextar unveiling a trio of new navigators that are destined for routes in South America. PNDs for Argentina (M3-AR), Brazil (M3-BR), and Mexico (updated to the M3-MX1) are all scheduled to go on sale in early 2009, with each model packing its respective country maps as well as a multimedia player, 3.5-inch touchscreen, text-to-speech support, oodles of POIs, an integrated antenna, rechargeable Li-ion and a stylus for no good reason good measure. All three will sell for $249.99, and the full release is after the break.Continue reading Nextar launching M3 navigator into South AmericaFiled under: CES, GPSNextar launching M3 navigator into South America originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 05 Jan 2009 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.Permalink | Email this | Comments

Electric cars and other fuel-efficient vehicles certainly have plenty going for them, but all that reduction in fuel consumption also has the side effect of reducing the money earned from gas taxes, which has prompted folks like Oregon governor Ted Kulongoski to turn to some alternative solutions to keep those funds rolling in. In the case of Oregon, Governor Kulongoski is proposing a mileage tax that would eventually replace the gas tax altogether, and make use of GPS units to determine just how far each person travels and bill them accordingly (Oregon is proposing a 1.2 cent per mile tax). To assuage privacy concerns, that information would apparently only be collected when the driver fuels up, and actual travel information supposedly wouldn't be tracked. Obviously, that system would only work if everyone had a GPS, so the governor is proposing an increase in the standard gas tax in the interim, with drivers already equipped with a GPS unit eligible for a refund on the taxes paid. All of this also still has to pass the Oregon legislature to become law, but it certainly wouldn't be the first time that the state broke with convention.Filed under: GPS, TransportationOregon governor looking at GPS-based mileage tax to fund roads originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 31 Dec 2008 16:03:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments

At long last, iPhone users who have grown increasingly frustrated by using Google Maps as their primary navigational tool can find relief... sort of. Available right now in the App Store, XRoad's G-Map application requires no internet connection whatsoever in order to function; rather, it packs oodles of maps into a 932MB package that covers most of western America and a few sporadic locales on the east. We're a bit baffled (and angered) by the not-at-all-comprehensive coverage, but we suppose we can expect updates to patch the gaps in the near future. It provides most of the same amenities you're used to seeing on real-deal GPS units, including POI editing, memo capabilities, location searching, etc. A word of caution, though: early reviews don't seem too stoked about it, so you may want to gloss it over good before hitting your card for $19.99.[Thanks, Karel]Gallery: XRoad G-Map app brings bona fide navigation to the iPhoneFiled under: Cellphones, GPSXRoad G-Map app brings bona fide navigation to the iPhone originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 23 Dec 2008 13:39:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments

Nextar has been pretty steadily adding newcomers to its Q4 family of navigators, and it's not about to let up now with CES just around the corner. The latest member, the Q4-LT, touts a 4.3-inch touchscreen, built-in speaker / antenna, text-to-speech support, 2D / 3D NAVTEQ maps of the US and Canada, 1.6 million POIs, an MP3 / JPEG player, rechargeable battery and of course, free traffic updates for life. Hope you're not too fond of the feature set, though, 'cause it won't even be available for purchase until Q3 2009 for $249.99.Filed under: GPSNextar throws in free traffic updates for life on Q4-LT navigator originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 23 Dec 2008 04:03:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments

Some interesting news is coming out of the Garmin camp this fine morning, including word that the company somehow managed to buck all manner of economic trends and boost its holiday sales by 50 percent over 2007. (Apparently peoples' 401(k) valuations weren't the only things getting lost this year.) The company also confirmed that its Nuvifone, which is getting a bit long in the tooth despite being unavailable, is indeed still coming -- but won't be hitting Taiwan at least until Q2 of next year, and there's no indication of whether we'll be seeing it a little earlier 'round these parts. Finally, and most intriguingly, is confirmation of what the company plans to do first with that freshly laminated Open Handset Alliance membership card: multiple new Android phones are said to be in the works, due for release sometime in the second half of 2009. No further information is available, and while the smart thing might be for Garmin to focus on getting its first handset out the door before drafting a successor, we think any excuse for a new costume on our favorite green Android is a good one.[Via GPS Tracklog]Filed under: Cellphones, GPSGarmin planning Android-powered handsets for late 2009 originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 22 Dec 2008 09:51:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments

If there's one problem with modern GPS devices it's that they're "highly complex" -- at least that's what you might think if you're a frequent Hammacher Schlemmer shopper. Believing that people find things like touch screens or buttons a little too much, the gadget company has created what it calls a "GPS Homing Device." For a penny under $80 (roughly the price of a real nav system) the over-sized key fob lets you mark your current location and then, after an exhausting day of bargain hunting, find your way back to where you began just by following an arrow -- all without relying on the help of the parking lot attendant. Makes a great gift for the directionally-challenged shopaholic in your life.[Via Chip Chick]Filed under: GPSGPS homing device gets you back where you started, nowhere else originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 17 Dec 2008 11:08:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments

Okay, so maybe the unlocking of the GPS on Verizon BlackBerrys wasn't an accident after all -- and maybe hell has frozen completely over. WMExperts is reporting an official statement released by the carrier claiming that GPS has remained locked down on many of its models simply because it hasn't met Verizon's "performance goals," which granted, sounds like a crock -- but to Verizon's credit, they're the ones getting the phone calls when things aren't working smoothly, not the phone's manufacturer. Still, when you consider that VZ Navigator runs a pricey $9.99 a month for WinMo devices, the financial motivation was certainly there to keep it locked down, so maybe customer dissatisfaction with the policy has reached a boiling point or Verizon is simply realizing that they're not milking enough money to bother. Specifically, the Touch Pro, Saga, and Omnia have all been mentioned as getting fully unlocked, standalone GPS via firmware updates in the first half of next year. [Via Brighthand]Filed under: Cellphones, GPS, HandheldsVerizon relents, promises to open GPS on some WinMo phones next year originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 16 Dec 2008 17:50:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments

There's certainly no shortage of devices out there that promise to alert you when you're approaching a red light or speed camera, but if you're looking to keep things as simple as possible, you may want to consider this new so-called GPS Angel device, which pares things down to a couple of buttons and blinking lights. As with similar devices, you're also able to sync it up to your PC to ensure you have all the latest camera locations (Mac users are on their own, unfortunately), and you don't have to worry about a monthly or yearly subscription fee for the service. Head on past the break to check it out in action, and get ready to fork over $129 if you think it'll do the job for you. Continue reading GPS Angel promises to keep watch on red light and speed camerasFiled under: GPSGPS Angel promises to keep watch on red light and speed cameras originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 15 Dec 2008 19:26:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments

MiTAC already did a bit of GPS reshuffling to start the year off, and now it seems a bit more of that will be required. Magellan -- the makers of the RoadMate, Maestro and Triton navigation systems -- has entered into a "definitive agreement to sell its consumer products division to MiTAC International," which goes a long way in explaining why development was suddenly halted last month on the promising Maestro Elite 5340 connected GPS. The deal is expected to close in January, and financial terms aren't being publicly disclosed at present time. So, what's this mean for both outfits at CES next month? It's hard to say, but we wouldn't count on a whole lot of new PNDs from Magellan. Hear that TomTom? You've got some slack to cover.[Via GPSTracklog, thanks Rich]Filed under: GPSMiTAC buys Magellan consumer products division: 'take it away, Maestro' originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 15 Dec 2008 09:24:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments

Every once in a while we're reminded that Garmin's Nuvifone -- announced nearly a year ago -- still exists, and this time around it's none other than the FCC doing the reminding. The curiously-named "Calf" from ASUS turns out to be the Nuvifone once you click through to the label diagrams, and test documentation reveals that 3G is being tested on both Bands II and V -- that's North America-friendly 1900 and 850MHz, for those who aren't up to snuff on their spectrum terminology. With gub'mint certification under its belt, maybe we can push that 1H 2009 release window to 1Q, eh, Garmin?[Thanks, cl347bv]Filed under: Cellphones, GPS, HandheldsGarmin Nuvifone gets FCC approval originally appeared on Engadget on Sun, 14 Dec 2008 11:32:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments

They're far from common, but we've definitely seen modular GPS concepts before. If this leaked FCC documentation is any gauge of reality, however, TomTom will be making those wild, wild dreams into something entirely more tangible. The DUB1 is an up and coming navigator which is designed to operate in a snap-in portal located in your nearest dashboard or in the palm of your nearest hand. It's likely that said portal will be a double-DIN aftermarket accessory, but we suppose TomTom could nail down contracts with automakers to provide it from the factory. There's little left to do but wait and see, but given just how nuts Garmin went at CES 2008, don't be shocked to see this as one of the many coming from its main rival in just under a month.[Via NaviGadget]Filed under: GPSTomTom DUB1 navigator works in-dash or on-the-go originally appeared on Engadget on Sat, 13 Dec 2008 05:10:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments

It's hardly the first example of the technology -- we saw a very similar system from Delphi in action at CES last year -- but Mercedes-Benz's new SPLITVIEW COMMAND system appears to be one of the first instances of it being used in a production vehicle, and that certainly counts for something. From the looks of it, the system is very similar to the Delphi one, with the 8-inch display able to let the driver keep an eye on the GPS while the passenger simultaneously watches a DVD or something equally distracting on the very same screen. That's done with the use of a special filter that masks the display and only lets the proper pixels slip into view depending on where you are seated. No word on what sort of premium the system will demand, if any, but it'll apparently be available on all S-Class models starting in the summer of 2009.[Thanks, Ashley] Filed under: GPS, TransportationMercedes-Benz intros SPLITVIEW COMMAND system originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 10 Dec 2008 20:19:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments

Not that GPS watches are completely new, but Holux is looking to jump in the game with its GPS Tracker 005. The relatively plain timepiece keeps a low cover for top secret reconnaissance missions, and the water-resistance should prove useful when treading through the puddles of an Australian rain forest. Reportedly, the watch has a built-in SIM card slot so it can transmit real-time tracking information via SMS and the like, and users can even download updated ephemeris information to improve satellite fix times. Too bad it can't double as a multimedia player, but we suspect Holux didn't want users zoning off while enjoying the soothing sounds of Sia when they were supposed to be phoning home.[Via NaviGadget]Filed under: GPS, WearablesHolux GPS Tracker 005 makes your Timex sad originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 08 Dec 2008 08:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments

If you've been itching to get your GPS on but weren't feelin' the $9.99 monthly charge for VZ Navigator, today is a good day. Verizon 8330 Curve and 8130 Pearl devices have finally been (somewhat) decrippled, as users over at HowardForums are reporting that the GPS in the aforementioned devices started working once they applied the 4.5.0.97 update. As this is an unreleased firmware version, we're unsure if this was an intentional measure, or simply an epic mistake. But one thing we're sure about is that if Verizon does shut this down in the next firmware update, the backlash will surely be enough to whip up one heck of a Storm. Unfortunately at this point, it's only working in BlackBerry Maps, while Google Maps is left out of the party; but hey, we'll take whatever we can get.[Image via Boy Genius Report, thanks Nate]Filed under: Cellphones, GPSNew firmware unlocks GPS on Verizon-branded Pearls and Curves, carrier's intentions unclear originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 05 Dec 2008 00:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments

The baby Jesus in the manger continues to be too enticing a prospect for some sticky-fingered pranksters, apparently. We've seen GPS tech harnessed on a small scale in the past to stave off such thievery, but now the counter-attack is going national. LightningGPS and their partner BrickHouse Security have announced that any house of worship or school can rent and use their GPS devices (and hidden cameras!) free of charge throughout the holiday season to protect the baby G and his family, the menorah, and uh... Santa. Nice to see they're covering all the religious bases here. Filed under: GPSBaby Jesus and Co. get free GPS devices this holiday season originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 03 Dec 2008 21:43:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments

When we asked how you'd change Nikon's 720p-recording D90 DSLR, many of you globe-trotting photogs let out wistful sighs, gazed at the brightest star, and wished with all your might for automatic geotagging of photos. Like some trickster genie, Nikon is granting your wishes, but we're not sure the GP-1 GPS add-on is exactly what you had in mind. It slots into the hot-shoe on most cameras (clipping onto the strap for a few) and uses an unwieldy looking cable to connect to the body of your D200, D3, D700, D90, D300, or D3X. We can't say that we're particularly fond of the device's means of indicating status, either: red blinky light = no satellites; green blinky = three satellites; green solid = four satellites or more. C'mon Nikon, for $240 you couldn't integrate that cable into a hand strap and put more than two LEDs up in there? [Via Gadget Lab]Continue reading Nikon's geotagging GP-1 dongle now availableFiled under: Digital Cameras, GPSNikon's geotagging GP-1 dongle now available originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 02 Dec 2008 10:43:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments

Medion has been cramming fingerprint scanners into its GPS units for a little while now, but it looks like it's now firmly committed to the technology, with its latest batch of models each packing the extra level of security. Those include the GoPal P5235, P5435 and X5535, which each boast a 5-inch touchscreen display, voice recognition, and live traffic updates, plus a nearly identical appearance. The P5435 one-ups things slightly over the P5235 with some handsfree Bluetooth calling, while the X5535 goes all out with a built-in gyrometer that promises to pick up some of the slack when the GPS signals drop out. No word on a price or release date for any of 'em just yet, unfortunately, but we wouldn't expect the base model to be too far off the $269 that the nearly identical model that just hit Europe demands.[Via Electronista] Filed under: GPSMedion intros three new fingerprint-scanning GPS units originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 01 Dec 2008 15:16:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments

It's been a nice little while since we've seen any new navigators from Medion, but the outfit's hitting back with its relatively forgettable GoPal P5430. The European PND sports a 5-inch touchscreen display, integrated TMC antenna, fingerprint sensor, text-to-speech functionality, an inbuilt FM transmitter and pre-installed NAVTEQ maps of Western and Eastern Europe. Like we said, forgettable -- but you should know it's priced at £175 ($269) just in case you're tempted.[Via NaviGadget]Filed under: GPSMedion launches 5-inch GoPal P5430 GPS in Europe originally appeared on Engadget on Sat, 29 Nov 2008 04:18:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments

We get the idea that the Q4-01 and Q4-02 are simply non-MSN Direct versions of the Q4-MD we've already seen, but we'll humor you anyway. The newest duo in the Q4 lineup includes a 4.3-inch touchscreen, voice-guided directions, NAVTEQ maps, an SD card slot, multimedia player and a rechargeable Li-ion to boot. The Q4-01 stops at just 50 states, while the Q4-02 adds in maps of Canada and Puerto Rico and includes six million points of interest. Both of these should be available right now in a variety of off-the-wall retailers, with the former listed at $299 and the latter $399. Oh, but you should know the Q4-01 will go for $99.99 on Black Friday (read: this Friday) at Kohl's and Kmart. Time to knock elbows, people. The full release is after the break.Continue reading Nextar delivers Q4-01 / Q4-02 4.3-inch navigatorsFiled under: GPSNextar delivers Q4-01 / Q4-02 4.3-inch navigators originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 24 Nov 2008 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.Permalink | Email this | Comments

Americans have been waiting with bated breath for months on end for Clarion's MiND mobile internet device to launch, and just as we were promised in September, said device is finally on sale in the month of November. Available in black, red or white hues, the MID boasts a 4.8-inch WVGA (800 x 480) touchscreen, preloaded maps of the entire US and Canada, built-in RealPlayer, Linux OS, an Intel Atom CPU, 512MB of RAM, a 4GB SSD, Firefox browser, Bluetooth 2.0 / WiFi, a microSD card slot, 2 USB ports and a battery good for around 1.5-hours of usage. Pop one under the tree for that someone special in your life for just $649.99. Or get them a full-fledged netbook for less, your call.[Via Pocketables]Filed under: GPSClarionMiND MID on sale in the US for $649.99 originally appeared on Engadget on Sun, 23 Nov 2008 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments

The folks over at The NCC just hit us with details and pictures of their five new Goodyear-branded GPS models, three of which are due out in time for Christmas. Starting at $179.99 for the entry level, 3.5-inch GY130, and working their way skywards to $499.99 for the GY440 4.3-inch widescreen with Bluetooth and 12 months free MSN Direct, all models feature touchscreens, Instant Rerouting (the device calculates all alternate routes in a one-mile radius of the vehicle, so recalculation isn't needed if you get off course), a SiRF GPS receiver, turn-by-turn spoken directions and 3D view. There is plenty more to these units, however -- hit the gallery for plenty of truly breathtaking renders and check out pricing and stats after the break.Gallery: New Goodyear GPS units for 2008 Continue reading Goodyear announces five more GPS units in time for ChristmasFiled under: GPSGoodyear announces five more GPS units in time for Christmas originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 18 Nov 2008 16:37:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.Permalink | Email this | Comments

Apparently the dmedia G400 MID was announced at the WiMAX Expo in Taipei back in June, but this is the first we've seen of it, and solid information is still a little hard to come by. The device will boast a 800 x 400 touchscreen, WiMAX, HSDPA / WCDMA, and GPS radios, a microSD slot, and will come in both 3.8-inch and 4.3-inch configurations. From what we could glean, the system with run atop a SiRFprima CPU, though we haven't seen a lot (say, any) of MIDs using those chips. So, is this actually just a glorified PND? It's hard to say, but we hear the units will hit retail sometime in the beginning of 2009, though we don't know how much they'll cost or where they'll be available. [Via Pocketables]Filed under: GPS, Handheldsdmedia G400 with WiMAX: MID or PND? originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 17 Nov 2008 11:27:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments

Each week Ross Rubin contributes Switched On, a column about consumer technology. Often, a shotgun is used at the beginning of a dash, but not so in the world of connected GPS devices, where Telenav launched its Shotgun portable navigation device days after Dash decided to exit the hardware business with its pioneering Dash Express. Unlike Dash, Telenav was no newcomer to the guided navigation space, being a leading provider of turn-by-turn navigation services to cell phones. Its customers include Sprint and AT&T, and consumers can subscribe to the service directly through Telenav -- even if their carrier doesn't support it -- as long as their smartphone does. The product is free to download, but carriers charge a subscription fee for unlimited use, or offer it on a per-diem price. Because it is designed for an inherently wireless device, Telenav software includes features such as traffic notification, which is a premium feature in portable navigation devices. In addition to physical advantages such as the large screen, the Shotgun has at least one important advantage over Telenav's cell phone services. Since its maps are local, the device continues to route even when you drive outside of cellular coverage areas. But there's at least one holdover from its cellular heritage that Telenav needs to shed on the Shotgun -- an unceasing, bright blue LED signaling wireless connectivity, which is hugely distracting to the driver, especially at night. Perhaps a bundled strip of black duct tape will do in the meantime.Continue reading Switched On: Riding Shotgun in a traffic jamFiled under: GPSSwitched On: Riding Shotgun in a traffic jam originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 14 Nov 2008 21:03:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.Permalink | Email this | Comments

Does a UMPC with a breathalyzer still raise eyebrows? In addition to making you face your demons (something several family-led interventions have failed to do) UMID's F1 is a GPS-enabled device aimed clearly at drivers. This 7-inch, 800 x 480 LCD touchscreen PC sports HSDPA and WiMAX connectivity, a VIA C7-M 1.2GHz processor, WiFi and Bluetooth 2.0 connectivity, a GPS receiver, DMB TV tuner, FM tuner, a remote control and Windows XP Home. Available with 512MB or 1GB memory and up to 60GB storage, this machine is currently on sale in Korea. No word yet on pricing. Filed under: GPS, Handhelds, Tablet PCsUMID F1 GPS-enabled, breathalyzin' UMPC available in Korea originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 13 Nov 2008 11:09:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments

We first caught sight of this tiny Bluetooth GPS data logger a few months back under the guise of the Columbus V-900 but unfortunately didn't have much in the way of a price, release date, or complete specs at the time. Thanks to the wonderful world of consumer electronics, however, the same device has now popped up again in the form of the VGPS-900 from Visiontac, who seem to be a bit more eager to actually sell it to you. As Columbus let on, this one boasts built-in Bluetooth, a microSD card slot and, according to Vsiontac, a voice recording feature, which is apparently a first among GPS data loggers. You'll also be able to use the device to geotag your photos and, if you so chose, you can also make use of its "spy mode," which provides 30 days of standby logging. Sold? Then you can get your order in right now for $110.[Via Mobile Gadget News]Filed under: GPSVisiontac rolls out VGPS-900 data logger with voice recording originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 11 Nov 2008 13:52:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments

Love GPS'ing? Love TomTom? Well you're in luck, because the company has just sneaked out another iteration of its popular GO series -- the 630. The device boasts a 4.3-inch, 480 x 272 touchscreen, SD card support, Bluetooth functionality, and comes loaded with maps of US and Canada. We're not going to pretend that the 630 sports any features which are too outstanding, but with things like "points of interest," a "windshield mount," and included "USB cable," you can rest easy knowing this does... something. The satnav unit is available from RadioShack right now for an affordable $349.99 (a $50 savings off its list price).[Via GPS Tracklog]Filed under: GPSTomTom's GO 630 shows up at RadioShack originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 11 Nov 2008 10:03:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments

In an effort to make sure you're well aware that the 8100T is the most premium possible, even better than ultra- or mega-premium, Navigon has definitively described the aforesaid navigator as "uber-premium." So, now that the bar is set at an unbelievably high level, how's about an outlay of the sure-to-be-phenomenal specs? We're talking a 4.8-inch display, brushed-metal housing, a 3D view using NASA terrain height data, free real-time traffic updates for life, voice destination entry, Bluetooth handsfree support, text-to-speech and an inbuilt lane assistant. The only question left is simply this: is all of that uber enough to warrant the $599 price tag?Filed under: GPSNavigon launches "uber-premium" 4.8-inch 8100T navigator originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 10 Nov 2008 08:49:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments