TomTom's New Go Live 1535M Nav Unit

TomTom, the popular GPS manufacturer, just announced the launch of live services for the Canadian market with the introduction of the connected GO LIVE 1535M. This device combines the most comprehensive road and traffic information from TomTom HD Traffic with access to real-time information via travel-related apps. These new features are said to give people the information they need on a dedicated device that is specifically designed to offer a high quality navigational experience.

Since this device is connected, the GO LIVE can save you time with your commute, money on your gas and help lessen stress by continuously monitoring and rerouting you based on current traffic conditions. In addition to that, TomTom HD Traffic provides accurate reporting by capturing more actual traffic jams than previously possible. And if that isn't enough, TomTom HD Traffic also processes traffic conditions for all major and secondary roads within the Canadian road network and proactively delivers updates in real-time to your device every two minutes.

According to TomTom President Tim Roper, "We are excited to introduce our connected navigation solutions to Canadian drivers. By giving people the most up-to-date traffic details as well as relevant local content provided by travel apps, TomTom is bringing a new level of connectivity to drivers by providing information in the most effective platform available."

Features of the new TomTom GO LIVE 1535M include:

• Intuitive Voice Recognition with one-step address entry


• Bluetooth Hands-Free Calling


• Integrated Mount with Flip-Screen


• Crisp, sharp graphics and intuitive user menus


• Expanded driving view on 5" touch screens


• Spoken Street Names


• Advanced Lane Guidance


• Maps of the United Stats, Canada and Mexico


• Lifetime Map Updates


• TomTom LIVE Services Bundle, including TomTom HD Traffic


• Branded Travel apps from Yelp, TripAdvisor, Expedia, Twitter and Google

The TomTom GO LIVE 1535M will be available at Best Buy, Future Shop, Rogers Stores and other nationwide retailers sometime this month with pricing starting at $269 CAD MSRP.

Source: Engadget - TomTom extends Live service and HD traffic to Canada with Go Live 1535M nav unit

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Are Smartphones Stealing All GPS Sales?

For years researchers have been saying that the developments and advancements of smartphones would cause GPS systems to become obsolete, but until recently smartphones did not seem like a legitimate threat.

The Swedish research company Berg Insight says that it believes that PND (personal navigation device) sales will peak at 42 million units by next year and then slowly phase out due to the increase in GPS-enabled smartphones in the years to come.

Smartphone-enabled GPS systems are so much more convenient when they are compared to a separate device that you have to lug around everywhere with you like a GPS system.

The numbers concerning the decline of GPS systems are a sharp contrast from the numbers just a few years ago that showed several hundred dollar GPS systems including Garmins, TomToms, and Magellans that made the very top of some people’s Christmas lists.

To pinpoint the decline of the want or need for a GPS system, you must consider the launch of Android in October 2008. When this occurred, subscribers were provided with Google Maps and navigation programs for free. In February Nokia followed suit by providing their users with Ovi Maps, a-turn-by-turn navigation software. Berg reported that compared to the same time last year, in the first half of 2010, the use of navigation services of mobile devices grew by 57 percent.

“The technology is being partially absorbed into smartphones and in-dash devices,” said Kevin Rauckman, the Garmin chief financial officer. Despite the decline in the purchase and use of GPS systems, navigation companies are still putting up a fight. “We are also seeing the industry mature very rapidly. But that in no way means the end of the road for our business,” said Rauckman. The companies are adding features to their GPS systems like much more accurate maps, bigger screen sizes, and specific data points locating things such as sex offenders or speed cameras. They are also “fortifying” their apps so that they can directly compete with devices and services like iPhone, Android, and Symbian.

“There is no doubt that the smartphone is transforming many of these markets, not just navigation devices, but cameras and media players, too,” Andre Malm, a senior analyst at Berg Insight said. “These markets aren’t going to disappear, but they are going to change substantially.”

In spite of the figures that Berg Insight has predicted, they say that they don’t see GPS systems as devices that will completely die off. In a press release Berg said that in the years to come it is likely that most North American and European customers will own more than one device capable of taking care of navigation needs.

Malm said, “Vendors need to communicate the advantages of connected services, such as better traffic information, in order to educate potential customers and stimulate demand.”

I have begun to see the use of GPS systems decline quite a bit lately, but I agree with Berg Insight on the prediction that the devices will not completely disappear. Some people like the size of GPS systems, and others like having an actual device in their car that is specifically utilized for navigation purposes. Although the younger generation may not be interested in GPS systems and would prefer to use their smartphone, many people in older generations may prefer the various advantages and simplicity of a GPS system.

We’ll just have to see how GPS systems do in the future, and if smartphones really will take over the GPS market.

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Buying a GPS System

If you’re looking into buying a GPS system, now is a great time. Finally, the product has matured to the point that it’s not outrageously expensive anymore. This is partially because of time and partially because of the fact that many smartphones are now equipped with navigation abilities. Before you go out and buy just any old GPS system though, there are definitely some factors that you should consider.

First, you should consider the basics of the device. Screen size is something that is very important. Right now the trend seems to be a 4.3 inch screen. Most of the newest models are featuring screens this size. If you’re willing to go for a smaller screen size than this, you will most likely save a decent amount of money. The issue with a smaller screen is that it can be difficult to read things on it. Another thing you have to consider though is that the larger the screen the more room it will take up on your dashboard or windshield. These are just some things to keep in mind.

When purchasing a GPS system, you may wonder about the maps that the device includes. Well, almost every system sold these days comes standard with preloaded maps of the United States, and some even come with Canada, Mexico, and Puerto Rico as well. If you need any additional maps, you can usually purchase them from the GPS manufacturer and download them via your PC or onto your SD card.

Another thing to consider when looking at GPS systems is voice control. A few systems allow you to speak commands instead of poking at the buttons on the device's screen. This is definitely safer because it allows you to control the system hands-free, but you will most likely be paying more if you want this feature. There are also some other great extras that you can find on some GPS systems like media players that can support audio, photo, or video playback from an SD card. Other more practical features would be Bluetooth capabilities. These are definitely some features that you should consider when looking at different systems.

You will also want to make sure that the system features live traffic updates. You need your GPS to have a traffic receiver so that you can find alternate routes during traffic jams. For some systems that don’t feature traffic receivers, you can purchase an add-on accessory that will give you traffic updates. Unfortunately, adding on a receiver will add to the bulk of your GPS and add yet another cord, and then you also will have to deal with paying for a subscription to live traffic updates. Basically, the point is that you want to try to find a GPS with a built-in traffic receiver.

So, after reading about all the things that you need to consider when purchasing a GPS, you might ask if it would simply be easier to purchase a smartphone with navigation capabilities. It really just depends on what you like best. If you decide to utilize your phone as your GPS system, you will have to buy something so that you can mount your phone to the windshield, and you will also have to consider the fact that using your phone as a GPS system will drain your phone's battery a lot. Some people just prefer to have a device that is dedicated only to navigation purposes. It’s really up to you to decide what you feel more comfortable with.

These are just a few things that you should consider if you’re looking into buying a GPS system. You should definitely do some research before making any kind of purchase. Make sure that your system has everything that you’re looking for. Like I said, this is a great time to be looking into a GPS system. You’re sure to find a great deal out there if you take the time to look for one.

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Technology Rules When it Comes to Family Travel

CarMax, the United States' largest retailers of used cars wants to know what parents find necessary when taking long family trips this summer. Modern technology definitely had its place within the responses.

The telephone survey was a part of the CarMax LUV2DRV campaign, which took place on Facebook until July 6, 2010. The aim was to help families make the most of their summer vacation journey. All Facebook users had the chance to enter the giveaway, which featured a grand prize of $2,500 and other items that would be great for your summer road trip!

So what were the results of the survey? Well, 42% of participants said they'd be rate their stress levels pretty high for their anticipated trips, with the average trip lasting about 8.5 hours one way. That's pretty understandable considering the group of participants was made up of 500 parents of kids ages three to fifteen. About half of the survey-takers said music was the one thing necessary to help ease their travel anxiety and the one thing they couldn't live without. 17% said movies are must-have technology, 16% said books, 11% said gaming devices and only 5% said they'd resort to games like "I Spy."

As far as what type of car travelers are using this summer, over half of the respondents said an SUV or Minivan (36% and 34% respectively). 16% were taking a normal sedan, 8% a truck, and 4% would travel in their station wagon.

Technology was definitely important when it came to the "must-have" accessory for the trip. 28% said a GPS or Navigation system is important. That was tied with a DVD System. 14% would take extra cup holders, 8% needed their car racks, as well as the 8% who needed folding or removable seats and 7% who would not leave without an extra power supply.

If you go to CarMax's Facebook page, you can currently download the LUV2DRV "Summer Road Kit Trip" and print it out for your summer vacation. The kit includes, ideas for games to play on the road, helpful app suggestions for your smartphone, quirky tourist spots, safety tips for your vehicle, and the LUV2DRV license plate, which they'd like you to hold in family photos and post on the CarMax Facebook page.

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Magellan’s Big Screen GPS Navigator

Sometimes you may feel that your GPS system just doesn’t have a large enough screen. It may be difficult to focus on the small screen while also trying to focus on the road. Well with Magellan’s RoadMate 1700, this is not an issue.

The RoadMate 1700 offers a full 7-inch screen to accommodate those who don’t want to squint to see the screen of their GPS system. They were designed more for RV and truck drivers or maybe even SUVs and minivans, but really anyone could use it. It features four times the average standard screen size which allows for easy viewing.

Now size is not the only great feature found with the RoadMate 1700. Also included is lane assist, spoken street names, and AAA TourBook travel guide information and assistance. The screen can also be used for viewing media. All that you have to do is plug in your iPod.

The Magellan RoadMate 1700 is now available for $299.

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Considering a GPS System?

So have you finally gotten fed up with always getting lost when you’re in a rush? Are you thinking that maybe it’s time to look into getting a GPS system? Although most smartphones have some sort of navigation, there are many features on an actual GPS system that smartphones just don’t have. If you’re ready to look into this then read on. I’m going to let you know about some of the top-rated GPS devices available right now.

TomTom One 140-S
List Price: $199.95
Sale Price: $99 (at BuyDig.com)
I’ve written a review previously about the TomTom One specifically that discusses this system in detail if you are interested. This GPS device includes a multitude of maps and over seven million points of interest found within the United States, Canada, Mexico, and Puerto Rico. It also has features like IQ Routes, lane assist, and multisegment routing. These are rarely found at such a entry-level price. This is definitely one to keep in mind.

Garmin nüvi 885T
List Price: $799.99
Sale Price: $276 (at BuyDig.com)
Now yes, this system is more expensive, but it has some fantastic features like voice recognition, text-to-speech conversion, enhanced MSN Direct services, great Bluetooth phone support, and tons of other advanced features. The advantage to this device is that there are now newer Garmin models, so you can easily find the 885T at a discounted price.

Magellan Maestro 4700
List Price: $299.99
Sale Price: 199.58 (at ANTOnlibe.com)
The Maestro features voice prompts, a responsive touch screen, fast route recalculations, and a feature that allows you to easily find your car in a crowded parking lot. The downside to this particular system is that it has extremely inconsistent voice recognition and can sometimes take quite awhile to lock your exact location.

Gamin nüvi 265T
List Price: $219.99
Sale Price: $125.99 (at eCost.com)
This Garmin model gives you quite a lot for the price tag. Something quite nice that they include with the 265T is a lifetime of free traffic updates. The device also includes an ecoRoute feature that can assist drivers in saving gas.

These are all reliable GPS systems that should satisfy your desire to always know where you are going. All that you have to do is decide which features you would utilize most, and you have found yourself a brand new, dependable GPS system.

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Americans Don’t Speed Much?

Before doing some research, I would have confidently said that a huge percentage of American drivers have the tendency to speed, but according to the GPS data from the TomTom this is not necessarily true.

Recently, the company compiled their data from the Speed Profiles database of the TomTom to see how many drivers that owned a TomTom were speeding. See TomTom’s IQ Routes and Tele Atlas map business unit feature can actually track the average speed of drivers on their routes.

I don’t know about you, but it seems that every time I get on the road there’s always some crazy maniac out there flying down the highway, but according to TomTom this really isn’t that many people. They reported that drivers from the fastest states in the country, Mississippi, New Mexico, Idaho, Utah, and Alabama, were staying within or slightly above the speed limits of 65-75 mph.

As amazing as it may seem according to TomTom, drivers out there just don’t seem to be speeding, well…at least the ones that own a TomTom.

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New Garmin Wilderness GPS Models

On Tuesday, Garmin announced their release of two new midrange touch-screen GPS devices targeted at hikers who want to have a navigation system with them in the wilderness. The Oregon 450 for $399 and the Oregon 450t for $499 are perfect for anyone that will be adventuring to unknown places.

Both of the devices feature a 3-inch screen that Garmin says can be operated even with gloved hands. Each have improvements that include: a user-selectable “dashboard” interface, high-speed USB, photo navigation, a three axis electronic compass, and better track navigation that will even display upcoming changes in elevation. They also have barometric altimeters and have the capability to exchange tracks, waypoints, routes, and geocaches with a variety of newer Garmin GPS systems.

Now what differentiates the Oregon 450t from the regular Oregon 450 is the 450t’s built-in 100,000 to 1 scale topographic maps of the United States. These offer a 3D perspective to the viewer to better gauge terrain elevation. These maps will also show major trails, roads, lakes, coastlines, rivers, parks, and wilderness areas.

Both of these devices are said to be ready to ship in the very first quarter of 2010. The price may seem a little high for a hiking accessory, but if you are a person who spends quite a bit of time outside in unfamiliar territory, this could be a good investment.

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A Feature-filled Budget GPS System: The TomTom One 140-S

The new TomTom One 140-S has finally brought some competition to the entry-level GPS market. It has a multitude of features that makes it stand far above many people’s reigning budget GPS choice, the $249.99 Garmin nüvi 265T.

The first thing that will draw your attention to the TomTom is its sleek stylish appearance. Its features a glossy black case with chrome-accent trimming around the 3.5-inch touch screen. The whole GPS system measures 3.0 x 3.6 x 0.8 inches (HWD) and weighs a total of 6.8 ounces with the suction-cup mounting bracket. The Easyport mounting bracket is not exactly what you would call easy. To remove the GPS from the bracket, you must either pop the GPS out of the mounting systems or remove the entire apparatus itself from the windshield. The problem with just popping the GPS out is that it is very difficult to put back into the bracket, and the issue with removing the whole bracket is that it can be difficult to stick back on your windshield.

Although the TomTom One 140-S is very similar to its previous model, the 130-S, there have been some very exciting improvements to the system. The 140-S now sports a Quick Menu. This gives you the ability to choose up to six of your most used functions for easy access through onscreen shortcut icons. There are also new and improved maps on the 140-S and an expanded points-of-interest database that features over seven million entries that spread over all 50 states, Canada, Puerto Rico, and Mexico. The maps are pre-loaded on your internal memory, and with the TomTom’s Home application you can plot your trips and update your maps through your PC.

A disadvantage with the TomTom One 140-S is that it does not include live traffic capabilities. To solve this problem, you will have to purchase a USB RDS-TMC traffic receiver for $59.97. This does include a free subscription for the first year but will cost you about $60 per year after that.

One of the really cool features included in the 140-S is the IQ Routes. This technology will calculate your optimal routes based on previous knowledge of your average speed. These results will give a more accurate estimated time than speed-limit-only data. It takes a little longer to calculate your route, but it is obviously worth the wait for a more accurate prediction and quicker route.

Another important feature to discuss is the Advanced Lane Guidance of the 140-S. This allows you to clearly see which lane you should be in to accomplish any upcoming maneuvers and informs you of any road signs that you can expect to see. Lane Guidance is an excellent safety feature that is difficult to find in any budget GPS systems. The 140-S also includes itinerary planning, which can come in handy when taking a multi-segmented trip.

The TomTom One 140-S is easy to operate, like its predecessor the 130-S. The volume has definitely been improved on the 140-S though, which is a welcome change. The 140-S can get as loud as you could possibly need, and conveniently increases the volume automatically every time the car goes over 45 mph.
The TomTom One 140-S has so many outstanding features for its small price tag. For $199.95 you can possess a GPS system that features a Quick Menu, IQ Routes, Advanced Lane Guidance, itinerary planning, and so much more. I feel that this budget GPS is definitely the way to go. With all the features that can’t be found in any other budget GPS system’s, how could you possibly pass the it up. The TomTom One 140-S is definitely a breath of fresh air.

Google Maps App for Android 2.0

For years, millions of people have used Google Maps to get directions online. The difficulty with online maps is you still get distracted trying to read a map and look for street names. An accident ready to happen, some say. Google has apparently taken note of this and yesterday announced that it's releasing the Google Maps app for Android 2.0.

For starters, the app is free. While many people pay for GPS service from various companies, some running as high as $100 per year and upwards of $200 per stand-alone device, the free app available for phones that have OS Android 2.0. The app provides 3-D views, turn by turn voice guided directions, and automatic rerouting.

Some more features of the Google Maps App include:

*The most recent map and business data - your phone automatically gets the most up-to-date information on maps and business information. No need to upgrade.

*Search in plain English - Even if you don't know where you're going, you can type virtually anything (ie: business name, landmark, etc) into the search and you'll get a map.

*Search by voice - Typing on your phone while driving is dangerous, and in most states, even illegal, so the Google Maps App allows you to simply say where you want to go.

*Traffic view - colored indicator lights, red, yellow, green, let you know about current traffic conditions.

*Search along route - If you need to find a business, gas station, etc, you can enter that information and the App will search along your route so you won't be taken too far off your path.

*Satellite view - The navigation app uses the same satellite imagery that Google Maps uses on your computer, turn on the satellite layer for a high-resolution, 3D view of your route.

*Street View - When you turn on street view you can easily spot your next turn or see where you are in relation to your destination.


The Google Maps App is a great alternative to a bulky stand-alone GPS device. The first phone to have Android 2.0 will be the Droid, from Verizon. And as of right now, the app is only available in the U.S.

New TomTom Car Kit for iPhone

According to TomTom's website, they will begin selling a new Car Kit for iPhone at some time in October. The kit will work for both the iPhone and iPod touch, along with other third party GPS applications.

So what does the Car Kit have to offer? A number of things including its own GPS receiver that, according to NaviGadget, works a lot better than the one already on the iPhone. It also includes a microphone and speaker for hands free calling, allows your phone to charge while driving, and streams music to your car stereo.

Unfortunately, the kit won't currently feature TomTom's iPhone app. The app, which sells for $100 in the United States, can currently be purchased through the iTunes App Store. There is no word on whether or not TomTom will add the app to the Car Kit bundle in the future.

The Garmin nüvi 1260T

The Garmin nüvi 1260T is ready to assist you in the car or on the street because not only is it an amazing GPS system but also it features an enhanced pedestrian mode. This top of the line system, when combined with the cityXplorer maps, can aide pedestrians in finding bus and subway routes. This could be a huge blessing to people living in a large city full of complex public transportation systems.

The 1260T features a 3.5-inch, 320 x 240-pixel screen, a Bluetooth phone interface, and is pre-loaded with maps for North America. Also included is text-to-speech conversion and ecoRoute. EcoRoute is a feature that allows you to find the most fuel-efficient ways to get around. In automobile mode, the 1260T functions exactly like the Garmin nüvi 265T, but in pedestrian mode, a whole new realm opens up. It will assist you in finding the nearest bus and subway stations and provide a detailed map of the city streets that you might happen to be wandering.

Another fascinating selling point of the 1260T is that it is the thinnest GPS system currently on the market. This is important due to the fact that you might be carrying this GPS around the streets of New York City and won’t exactly want to be weighted down. With its sleek appearance and lack of bulkiness, this definitely gives some brownie points to the 1260T.

I feel like this GPS system is a pretty good deal. For $299.99 you can have the thinnest GPS on the market that also includes advanced features. I think the enhanced pedestrian mode could be a big help if you travel to big cities often, and the ecoRoute feature could definitely come in handy with the ever-increasing gas prices. In my opinion, the Garmin nüvi 1260T seems like a great GPS system to look in to.

Magellan Maestro 3200 Portable GPS

Maps are becoming a thing of the past with the recent upgrade to a GPS, or Global Positioning System. GPS's are the easiest and fastest way to get from point A to point B.When they first came out most GPS devices were slow and unresponsive. Nowadays, everybody is moving so fast that only the quickest GPS will cut it.

Magellan is one of the better known GPS makers on the market today. They offer a quality product that offers good speed and uo-to-date information. The Magellan Maestro 3200 lives up to the Magellan name with ease.

The Maestro sports SiRFstar III technology with an integrated antenna which allows for quick position acquisition. It also has 3.5" QVGA color touch-screen display with an easy-to-use interface and backlighting that makes it easy to see and use. No longer will you be confused with a tricky interface because the Maestro offers an intuitive interface for clear usage. A QuickSpell system intelligently searches and checks spelling when you enter adresses to help you find where you need to go. If you have ever gone somewhere and been stopped by heavy traffic or a construction detour then you know how frustrating it is, especially when you have to back track and start over. Well the Maestro offers SmartDetor which prompts you around heavy or stopped freeway traffic.The interface also allows you to search by address, intersection, or any of up to 1.3 million points of interest. There are also a variety of different ways in which you can view the display. Choose from TrueView, a pop-up view of an upcoming turn, Map view for a 3-D bird's eye view of the map, or just a standard map view. The Maestro also has a night view which automatically adjusts brightness based on time of day. It also has a built-in rechargeable battery which provides up to 3 hours of battery life and also recharges while you drive. And finnally, the Maestro omes with a windshield mount, adhesive disc for dashboard mount, a basic cradel, and a DC power adaptor with software CD-ROM.

Needless to say this GPS looks to be top-of-the-line. It offers clear dorections and an easy-to-use interface which makes traveling easy and fast. The Magellan Maestro 3200 Protable GPS will run you around $95 which is a fair price in the expensive line of GPS devices today.

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