With all the iPhone hysteria, I missed last week's Q&A--shame on me. Fortunately, the dust has mostly settled, so I'm getting back on track. And believe it or not, this week's question isn't about the iPhone 3G and its GPS capabilities--mostly because I haven't had the opportunity to try it out yet--but I could also use the iBreak. So let's get on with it, shall we?
Q: I need a unit that I can plug 10 to 15 addresses into and it will map out a route hitting all the addresses in the most efficient and orderly manner. Am I dreaming? --Annette via e-mail
A: 'Tis no dream, Annette. There are quite a number of portable navigation systems that support multidestination routing, even up to 15 stops. All the major manufacturers, including Magellan, TomTom, and Garmin, offer models with this functionality. Typically, there are two methods for creating these multistop itineraries. First, you can plan a trip from point A to point B like you normally would and then go back and add "Via Points" to that route. Alternatively, some models offer a Trip Planner (or Itinerary Planning--the name of the tool differs from brand to brand) where you can input all your stops at once and save and name your trip for use later.
As for routing, Magellan and Garmin offer route optimization, which should give you the most efficient course, but I'd double-check the directions before taking off. I've read that some systems are smarter than others. Unfortunately, TomTom does not have this feature at all. Keeping that in mind, Annette, here are several product recommendations. I'm not sure what your budget is for buying a new GPS, but I've tried to give you a good range here.
Garmin Nuvi 760
Magellan Maestro 4250
TomTom GO 720
Mio C520
I'd also invite the readers to pass along any suggestions. After all, you guys use these devices day in and day out, and I want this to be an open forum. Also, keep those questions coming!
TomTom GO 720
(Credit: TomTom)One of the biggest concerns for current and potential GPS device owners is the currency of maps. Do I have the latest information? When should I update my maps, and how? While most portable nav manufacturers have their own scheduled releases, TomTom is going one step further to ensure that you have the most up-to-date information possible. Today, the company introduced its latest portable navigation system, the TomTom GO 720, with a new feature called TomTom Map Share that allows you to make adjustments to your maps (such as noting blocked roads, updating points of interest, adding new streets, and so on) and then share the information with other drivers. You can make the changes right on your device using the GO 720's 4.3-inch touch screen, save them, and then upload and share them with other users via the TomTom HOME desktop companion. You'd be correct to be concerned about the legitimacy of user updates, which is why you can opt to only download data verified by TomTom experts.
Talk to other drivers with TomTom Map Share
(Credit: TomTom)Other features of the TomTom GO 720 include preloaded maps of the North America, integrated Bluetooth for hands-free phone operation, text-to-speech functionality, a built-in FM transmitter, and new safety features. For example, the "Help Me!" function will tell you where you can find the nearest police station, hospital, or car service center, based on your current location. It even has voice-recording capabilities, so if you just love the sound of your own voice, you can get your voice prompts that way or via your children, friends, or family. The TomTom GO 720 is expected to ship at the end of July for $499.
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