In-car navigation systems run Linux, include Bluetooth phone features

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Mar. 15, 2005

[Updated Mar. 18, 2005] -- TomTom is demonstrating two Linux-based in-car navigation systems at CTIA this week in New Orleans. The TomTom Go 700 and 300 can use Bluetooth-enabled mobile phones to access service offerings, and the 700 can be used as a hands-free phone kit.

(Click for slightly larger view of TomTom 300/700)

TomTom launched the original TomTom Go navigation system last fall. The original Go device was based on a 200MHz ARM processor, with 32MB of RAM.

The 700 model will be TomTom's top-of-the-line model

The new Go 700 model will become TomTom's top-of-the-line model, when it ships later this year. It is based on a 400MHz ARM processor, with 64MB of RAM. It includes an internal 2.5GB hard drive preinstalled with street-level maps of the United States and Canada, TomTom says.

The 300 is TomTom's economy model

The Go 300 model will be TomTom's entry-level navigation device. It is based on a 200MHz ARM processor, and stores maps on a removable 1GB SD (secure digital) memory card. The card comes preinstalled with US maps, while maps of Canada, Hawaii, Alaska, and US territories are provided on a CD. Maps of Western Europe and elsewhere are available options for both models.

The TomTom Go offers point-to-point navigation
Both new Go models include an "enhanced" 12-channel GPS receiver, along with software that attempts to preserve location awareness in tunnels and urban canyons. The devices can calculate point-to-point routes, based on rules such as fastest route, shortest route, avoiding toll roads, and more. They can guide the user with on-screen and spoken-word instructions in 30 languages, and in more than 50 voices (including humorous voices, TomTom says). Voice volume adapts to car speed, according to TomTom.

Both new Go models include Bluetooth software that enables them to access TomTom "Plus" services using a "suitable" Bluetooth-enabled GPRS phone. Plus services include real-time weather and traffic information, detailed city maps, voices, and "points-of-interest" downloads featuring affiliate gas stations, hotels, and restaurants.

The Go 700 also includes hands-free phone software that enables users to accept and place calls using the device's integrated speaker and microphone, even with phones stored in purses or pockets, TomTom says. The 700 has a larger screen than mobile phones or phone-specific hands-free kits, works with any Bluetooth-enabled phone, and need not be re-installed following phone or car upgrades, the company says. Using the 700 as a hands-free kit does not interrupt the navigation display, the company adds.

Availability

TomTom says both the Go 700 and 300 will ship "soon." The company expects to launch its Plus services in April.

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