The module relays this information to your GPS unit via Bluetooth where you will be able to view a set of customisable gauges that provide details on things like fuel economy, RPMs, throttle position, intake manifold pressure, coolant temperature, intake air temperature and emissions.

Awesome? Yeah, sure. Will it save Garmin from destruction at the hands of a possible Google navigation juggernaut? No, probably not. [Cnet via NaviGadget via Ubergizmo via DVICE]

Dubbed the 1000 series, the new nüvi satnavs measure in at just 15.5mm thick, and all come loaded with the latest version of WhereIs mapping. There’s a range of features and prices, all of which are detailed below:

nüvi 1250 – $299
3.5” screen
Ultra-thin GPS (15.5mm)
Preloaded Australia & New Zealand maps
Text to speech
ecoRoute – for fuel efficient navigation
Traffic compatible (with optional traffic receiver)
Preloaded Safety cameras

nüvi 1260 – $349
3.5” screen
Ultra-thin GPS (15.5mm)
Bluetooth hands-free calling
Preloaded Australia & New Zealand maps
Text to speech
ecoRoute – for fuel efficient navigation
Traffic compatible (with optional traffic receiver)
Preloaded Safety cameras

nüvi 1350 – $399
4.3” widescreen
Ultra-thin GPS (15.5mm)
Lane assist
Preloaded Australia & New Zealand maps
Text to speech
ecoRoute – for fuel efficient navigation
Traffic compatible (with optional traffic receiver)
Preloaded Safety cameras

nüvi 1390 – $449
4.3” widescreen
Ultra-thin GPS (15.5mm)
Lane assist
Real View Advanced Lane Guidance
Preloaded Australia & New Zealand maps
Text to speech
Bluetooth hands-free calling
ecoRoute – for fuel efficient navigation
Traffic compatible (with optional traffic receiver)
Preloaded Safety cameras

nüvi 1390T – $549
4.3” widescreen
Ultra-thin GPS (15.5mm)
Lane assist
Real View Advanced Lane Guidance
Preloaded Australia & New Zealand maps
Bluetooth hands-free calling
Text to speech
ecoRoute – for fuel efficient navigation
Built-in traffic alerts
Preloaded Safety cameras

Other differentiating features include colour-coding the units to represent Bluetooth capabilities (if it’s black, you can call back; If it’s silver, there’s no Bluetooth inside and there are few words that rhyme with silver so get over it) and the ability to enter an address without knowing what suburb it’s in (thank the Gods!)

[Garmin]

The problem, of course, is that monthly fees will most likely be part of the deal—monthly fees that many GPS users are probably not willing to pay. Still, the nuvi 1690 appears to be on its way, for better or worse—although pricing and a release date have yet to be announced. [Electronista]

The first round of fixes, which are available in Garmin’s WebUpdater app, will remedy signal acquisition, freezing and update prompt problems for of the Nuvi 7×5 series of navigators. Updates for the similarly afflicted 800 series, nüvi 8×5, Zumo 660, GPSMAP 620 and GPSMAP 640 hardware will be coming in “the near future,” which, given how short the timeframe is on this issue so far, probably means no more than a few days.

Mercifully, for the unlucky folks whose nüvi 7×5 have been bricked by the prior update, Garmin is urging users to file for an RMA, and will fix or replace the devices under warranty. [Garmin]

The nuvi 765T adds Bluetooth(R) wireless technology for hands-free calling and supports a powerful advanced audio amplifier for a stereo Bluetooth connection. For transatlantic travel, nuvi 775T adds mapping of North America and Europe. The nuvi 785T features an MSN Direct receiver with trial subscription that includes updated information about traffic conditions, fuel prices, weather reports, movie listings, headline news, stock quotes and local events.

The nuvi 265T and 265WT will be available with preloaded comprehensive coverage of North America. For transatlantic travel, the nuvi 275T comes standard with mapping for North America and Europe. These nuvis are available in vibrant 4.3″ or 3.5″ screens that display shaded digital elevation mapping. All models will announce street names in their voice prompts, advising drivers to “Turn right on Elm Street,” rather than “Turn right in 500 feet.”

All seven units are expected to be released in October at prices ranging between $300 and $700 for specific models.

Aug 27, 2008 07:00

Garmin(R) Expands Affordable nuvi(R) 2×5 Series, Offering Hands-Free Calling and Lifetime Traffic Alerts
OLATHE, Kan. —(Business Wire)— Aug. 27, 2008 Garmin International Inc., a unit of Garmin Ltd. (NASDAQ: GRMN), the global leader in satellite navigation, today announced the next evolution of the popular nuvi 2×5 series, adding top-of-the-line features to this family of affordable navigators. The nuvi 265T, 265WT and 275T enhance upon their 2×5-series predecessors with Bluetooth wireless technology for hands-free calling and provide free traffic alerts.

“Many customers want a simple-to-use, low-cost personal navigator, but find themselves in need of premium add-ons along the way,” said Dan Bartel, Garmin’s vice president of worldwide sales. “These devices add two of the most popular premium features – traffic alerts and hands-free calling – to an affordable, yet powerful navigator.”

In addition to features offered by other members of the nuvi 2×5 family, these new navigators boast lifetime traffic alerts from NAVTEQ Traffic that allow drivers to steer clear of traffic accidents, road closures and construction. These devices come standard with a traffic receiver that will provide alerts in the coverage areas, and no subscription fee is required. Thanks to Bluetooth hands-free connectivity, these nuvis make it possible for drivers to make and receive calls using the unit’s built-in microphone and speaker. For states which prohibit the use of handheld cell phones while driving, the Bluetooth hands-free option is ideal. With the patented auto time zone feature, these nuvis will automatically adjust your time zone while navigating. All nuvis in the 2×5 series include Garmin’s new HotFix(TM) feature which automatically calculates and stores critical satellite information for fast satellite reception. For the ultimate in awareness, these compact nuvis will also display the speed limit for major roadways.

The nuvi 265T and 265WT will be available with preloaded comprehensive coverage of North America. For transatlantic travel, the nuvi 275T comes standard with mapping for North America and Europe. These nuvis are available in vibrant 4.3″ or 3.5″ screens that display shaded digital elevation mapping. All models will announce street names in their voice prompts, advising drivers to “Turn right on Elm Street,” rather than “Turn right in 500 feet.”

Using Garmin’s unique Web site – Garmin Connect Photos – users can choose from millions of geo-located photos provided by Google’s Panoramio photo sharing community and download them to the nuvi, for a photo-rich navigation guide. With Garmin’s “Where Am I?” feature, nuvi is always aware of a driver’s surroundings. At any time, drivers can look up their exact location including nearest hospitals, police stations, fuel stations, nearest address and intersection.

Aug 27, 2008 07:00

Garmin(R) Introduces nuvi(R) 7×5 Series with Lane Assist, Giving Drivers a Clear Picture of the Road Ahead
OLATHE, Kan. —(Business Wire)— Aug. 27, 2008 Garmin International Inc., a unit of Garmin Ltd. (NASDAQ: GRMN), the global leader in satellite navigation, today announced the next evolution of the nuvi 700 series, adding state-of-the-art technology to this popular line of advanced navigators. With lane assist, the nuvi 7×5 series provides drivers with a clear illustration of what lies ahead on their route.

“Garmin’s nuvi 7×5 series uses lane assist to make navigation clearer and easier than ever before,” said Dan Bartel, Garmin’s vice president of worldwide sales. “The lane assist view takes the guesswork out of driving through a busy intersection or an unfamiliar city. Drivers will no longer have to speculate which turn lane to be in, or what lane leads to which exit – that’s nuvi’s job.”

This new and improved series gives clear guidance on a 4.3″ touchscreen that details upcoming maneuvers and specific driving directions, including road sign detail and arrows indicating the proper lane for navigation. In some areas, a 3-D transparent view of buildings appears, giving drivers a more realistic depiction of their location. The nuvi 7×5 series also features accelerated map-drawing and routing capabilities, and makes screen zooming even smoother than before. For faster satellite prediction, nuvi 7×5 has Garmin’s HotFix(TM) feature which automatically calculates and stores critical satellite information.

The nuvi 755T, 765T and 775T will come standard with a traffic receiver that provides lifetime traffic alerts in coverage areas from NAVTEQ Traffic. The cost of the traffic receiver is included with the purchase of these devices – no subscription fee is required. The nuvi 765T adds Bluetooth(R) wireless technology for hands-free calling and supports a powerful advanced audio amplifier for a stereo Bluetooth connection. For transatlantic travel, nuvi 775T adds mapping of North America and Europe. The nuvi 785T features an MSN Direct receiver with trial subscription that includes updated information about traffic conditions, fuel prices, weather reports, movie listings, headline news, stock quotes and local events. For more information on MSN Direct services and coverage areas, visit http://garmin.msndirect.com. To give motorists the highest degree of awareness, this series of advanced navigators also displays speed limits for major roadways.

In addition, each nuvi 7×5 also comes standard with the popular “Where Am I?” feature, enabling drivers to look up their exact location including nearest address and intersection, and the closest hospitals, police stations and gas stations at any time. Drivers can also associate their favourite images with saved locations using Garmin’s own unique Web site – Garmin Connect Photos – where users can choose from millions of geo-located photos provided by Google’s Panoramio photo sharing community.

[Garmin]

SOUTHAMPTON, England, July 22

Garmin the global leader in satellite navigation, today announced its first multi-use nüvi portable navigation device (PND) dedicated to walking, cycling, scootering, driving and boating in one rugged easy-to-use unit. The nüvi 500 series comes equipped with the latest technology from Garmin including NavTeq sophisticated mapping data and the ability to accept different types of mapping including TOPO for outdoor navigation and Blue Chart cartography for marine usage.

Clive Taylor, Garmin’s Director of Product, said, “The nüvi 500 series is a true chameleon in the gadget world, it extends the use of GPS across the range, from walking to cycling to driving to boating. It’s ideal for individuals or families who want to go and explore the great outdoors in every way they can. With the built-in compass and integrated Wherigo(TM) and Geocaching player the sat-nav’s use is extended beyond just navigating: Users can enjoy the fun of the many family treasure hunts and adventures available online.”

The new waterproof nüvi 500 series combines the latest Garmin navigation technology including Hotfix(TM), detailed NavTeq mapping, millions of points of interest (POIs) and traffic avoidance compatibility, for the times when sitting in a traffic jam is not an option. In addition, the nüvi 500 series comes standard with Garmin’s popular “Where am I?” safety feature. At any time, with a single tap of the car icon, drivers can display their exact latitude and longitude coordinates, the nearest address and intersection, and the closest hospitals, police stations, fuel stations and recovery service telephone number. In addition, with Garmin Connect Photos, users can choose from millions of geo-located images provided by Google’s Panoramio to photo-navigate on land or water.

With one touch, the nüvi 500 transitions between walking, biking, driving or boating mode;

Walking and outdoor pursuits

Ready for the great outdoors, the nüvi 500 models display shaded digital elevation mapping on the 3.5″ water-proof touchscreen. This series comes standard with a compass page, track log and a removable, rechargeable battery for extended outdoor use. The integrated Wherigo(TM) and Geocaching player means the nüvi 500 series is ideal for getting the family to enjoy the great outdoors with the many downloadable ‘adventures and treasure hunts’ available online. Optional TOPO mapping will give additional detailed maps.

- Wherigo is a toolset for creating and playing GPS-enabled adventures in the real world. Use GPS technology to guide you to physical locations and interact with virtual objects and characters. http://www.wherigo.com

- Geocaching is an entertaining adventure game where individuals and organizations set up caches all over the world and share the locations of these caches on the internet. GPS users can then use the location coordinates to find the caches. Once found, the visitor may be provided with a wide variety of rewards, all a visitor has to do is ensure that if rewarded, they leave a gift for the next person who finds the cache. http://www.geocaching.com

Cycling/scootering

Where the nüvi 500 series stands out is in its ability to fit comfortably on a scooter or bicycle. Its user interface is easy to control and, with directions via Bluetooth and a scooter mount as standard in select European markets or optional extra everywhere else, it’s a great fit for getting around the busy town centres of Europe. The nüvi 500 series has a rugged design with UVA/B & fuel resistant material and bright clear screen that can be seen even in strong sunlight. If the weather turns and the rain comes down, its waterproof body ensures that the turn-by-turn directions get you to your destination using the most direct route and in the quickest time.

Driving

The nüvi 500 series’ intuitive interface greets you with two simple questions: “Where To?” and “View Maps.” Touch the colour screen to easily look up addresses and services and get voice-prompted turn-by-turn directions to your destination. It comes preloaded with City Navigator(R) NT map data European region or individual country. It’s packed with millions of POIs and features digital elevation maps that show you shaded terrain contours at higher zoom levels. With the nüvi 500 series, you can also upload custom POIs such as ‘The Good Pub Guide’ and ‘Falk-Marco Polos Travel Guide’ offering thousands of great places to drink, eat and visit.

Boating

When loaded with optional BlueChart(R) g2 Vision marine cartography, the nüvi 500 series is great on the water, providing detailed chart-specific information, spot soundings, inter tidal zones, wrecks, port plans, restricted areas and more. The nüvi 500 is ideal for the occasional boating enthusiast who wants one navigational device for foot, car, bike or boat.

The nüvi 500 and 550 for Europe come preloaded with either country-specific City Navigator NT Map Data (500) or full European City Navigator NT Map Data (550) with detailed street and topographic mapping.

The nüvi 550 will be available in the UK in September at a RRP of GBP299

See the Garmin nüvi 500 series on Stand N118 – British International Motor Show at ExCel, London – 23 July – 3 August 2008: http://www.britishmotorshow.co.uk

[GPStracklog]

Sure, you might be worried that GLaDOS will trick you into thinking you’re heading towards Six Flags or the bakery, all while directing you to drive into the gaping maw of an active volcano. But you’ve just got to keep telling yourself that it’s just a voice on an otherwise-reliable Garmin Nuvi. It’s actually not an official voicepack; it’s a pet project of Ryan VanMiddlesworth. But if you own a Garmin Nuvi, you can go ahead and download it now. [Project Page via Engadget]

Garmin(R) Provides Navigator for Samsung Mobile Phones

OLATHE, KA UNITED STATES

LAS VEGAS, March 31 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ — Garmin International
Inc., a unit of Garmin Ltd. (Nasdaq: GRMN), the global leader in satellite
navigation, announced today that select Samsung mobile phones will have the
benefit of Garmin’s intuitive turn-by-turn, voice-prompted navigation
directly on the phone. Samsung Mobile Navigator by Garmin is based on the
popular Garmin Mobile(TM) XT navigation software, and Samsung phones with
this navigation capability are expected to be available in Europe and other
parts of the world in several months. Garmin will display the Samsung i780
and other examples of its mobile phone navigation solutions April 1-3,
2008, at the CTIA Wireless trade show in Las Vegas.

(Logo: http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20061026/CGTH082LOGO)

“Garmin is pleased to offer Samsung users a rich navigation experience
with the same intuitive user interface found on other Garmin personal
navigation devices,” said Roger Jollis, Garmin’s director of OEM & mobile
marketing. “Garmin’s on-board and off-board phone navigation solutions are
now available on over 500 different handsets, including Samsung mobile
phones.”

“We are pleased to provide Garmin’s advanced navigation feature on
Samsung’s i780 and other Windows Mobile based smartphones recently
introduced to the European market. As navigation features become rapidly
popular among various mobile features, Samsung is continuously investing to
provide the best of experience to our consumers,” said YongBae Lee, vice
president of mobile communication division, Samsung Electronics, of Samsung
Electronics.

Marketed in major European countries, the Samsung i780 has a sleek
design packed with the latest in business and consumer features including
global positioning system (GPS) navigation, fast HSDPA and EDGE
connectivity, Bluetooth, 802.11b and g wireless capabilities, full touch
screen with stylus, QWERTY key pad, Microsoft Windows Mobile 6.0
Professional operating system, 2.0-megapixel camera and front camera for
video calls. The i780 also delivers full Internet browsing, MP3 music and
FM radio.

The Garmin navigation software is on a plug-and-play microSD card, and
once a customer loads the card into the phone, the software automatically
installs. Customers may then use their phone to receive voice-prompted,
turn-by-turn directions to their destination. A 3D moving map on the
phone’s display shows the user exactly where they are, and if a turn is
missed along the way, Samsung Mobile Navigator by Garmin automatically
calculates a new route. Users may key in a specific street address or
search millions of points of interest (POI) — places like hotels,
restaurants, shopping, and tourist attractions. Customers can also dial the
POI’s phone number automatically — for reservations, hours of operation,
or other information.

Those using Samsung Mobile Navigator by Garmin also have access to
Garmin Online(TM), a free and subscription based online service that offers
dynamic content such as traffic, weather forecasts and safety cameras.
Garmin Online content varies by region.

Garmin Mobile(TM) Application to Offer New Features on BlackBerry, Symbian and Windows Mobile Smartphones OLATHE, KA UNITED STATES

LAS VEGAS, March 31 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ — Garmin International
Inc., a unit of Garmin Ltd. (Nasdaq: GRMN), the global leader in satellite
navigation, announced today upgrades to Garmin Mobile that include a new
user-friendly interface and Google Local(TM) search. These upgrades will be
available on a variety of handsets and platforms including BlackBerry,
Symbian and Windows Mobile smartphones. These new features are in addition
to a long list of rich features and real-time content included with Garmin
Mobile’s current subscription based service that includes turn-by-turn,
voice prompted directions, as well as traffic, weather conditions and
forecasts, fuel prices and more. Garmin will display the Garmin Mobile
enhancements at its CTIA Wireless trade show booth (#6639) in Las Vegas,
Nevada, April 1-3, 2008.

(Logo: http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20061026/CGTH082LOGO)

When the new Garmin Mobile application is launched, customers will
first notice the new nuvi-like interface, with “Where To?” and “View Map”
icons on the smartphone display. Once “Where To?” is selected, colorful
icons such as “Address,” “Recent Finds,” “Food and Hotel” and “Google
Local” streamline the number of keystrokes required before selecting a
destination and receiving turn-by-turn, voice-prompted directions. If a
turn is missed en route, Garmin Mobile automatically recalculates the route
based on the user’s current location. Garmin Mobile has an extensive points
of interest database — places like hotels, restaurants, ATMs, gas
stations, airports, and more — thanks to the over six-million integrated
points of interest and Google Local search. Garmin Mobile is also
integrated with the phone’s address book so that users can navigate
directly to a contact’s address stored on their smartphone.

The Google Local search capability lets users harness points of
interest information via the World Wide Web. It allows users to look for
locations by typing in key word searches as they would if they were on
their desktop computer. If looking for a coffee shop with free Wi-Fi
access, simply type the phrase in the search box and a list of venues will
appear based on proximity to the user’s current location. In addition,
Garmin has created a “quick search” feature that lets users search Google
Local via categories — such as food, lodging, fuel, and more — rather
than typing a word or phrase into the Google Local search box. Detailed
information can be displayed including descriptions, business address &
phone numbers, and a user-contributed rating, where applicable. Once the
user selects a location, they can save the destination to their favorites
folder, call the destination, or navigate to it with Garmin’s intuitive
turn-by-turn, voice-prompted directions.

In addition to navigation, Garmin Mobile includes free access to
constantly-updating information like real-time traffic, fuel prices,
weather forecasts, and more.

Since Garmin Mobile is a subscription based solution, mapping data is
stored on Garmin’s servers, not on the device itself. Therefore, customers
have the advantage of the most up-to-date mapping information available
directly from Garmin’s servers. In order to access Garmin’s network, the
smartphone must have a data plan for network access.

[PRNewswire and PRNewswire]