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Garmin's Voice Studio will get me into trouble

LAS VEGAS--Even with the advent of robotic text-to-speech turn-by-turn directions, I still really enjoy playing with the different prerecorded voices on the GPS devices that I test. There's something about getting directions in a funny accent that's just comforting to me, which is why Garmin's new Voice Studio software is so intriguing.

The downloadable software will allow users to record and upload their own voice prompts to compatible Nuvi GPS devices, so that they can hear turn-by-turn directions in their own voices. The software guides users through recording replacements for the 65 words and phrases that the … Read more

Garmin debuts Zumo 665 motorcyle GPS

LAS VEGAS--Most of our readers are pretty familiar with Garmin's Nuvi line of in-car GPS navigators, but most have never heard of the manufacturer's Zumo line of motorcycle GPS devices. At CES 2010, Garmin has added a new top-of-the-line model, the Zumo 665.

The 665 replaces the previous Zumo flagship, the 660, but almost matches the previous unit spec for spec. Both units have the same 4.3-inch WQVGA touch screen, removable, rechargeable lithium ion battery, and waterproof construction. Both feature Bluetooth hands-free calling with A2DP stereo audio streaming.

Dig a little deeper and you'll find that … Read more

A closer look at Garmin's ecoRoute HD

When we last heard about Garmin's add-on to make its ecoRoutes software smarter, it was going under the name of ecoRoutes ESP and details were sparse. Now, as we approach CES 2010, Garmin has revealed new details surrounding the device on its corporate blog and a new name, ecoRoute HD. OK, so the name's not that different.

The big news here is the announcement of the expected availability date of March 2010 and the suggested retail price of $149.99.

The ecoRoutes HD system is built around two parts: the wireless OBD-II port dongle, which interfaces with your … Read more

Garmin adds new wilderness GPS models

Garmin announced two new midrange touch-screen GPS devices Tuesday, the $399 Oregon 450 and $499 Oregon 450t for hikers or others who want a navigation system in the wilderness.

Both the models offer a 3-inch color display that can be operated even with gloved hands, the company said. Among improvements over earlier models are user-selectable "dashboard" interfaces, high-speed USB, photo navigation, a three-axis electronic compass that compensates when the device is tilted, and better track navigation that shows upcoming changes in elevation. Like earlier models, the 450 and 450t have a barometric altimeter and can exchange tracks, waypoints, … Read more

Unboxing the Garmin Nuvi 1690

I've been eagerly anticipating the arrival of the Garmin Nuvi 1690. It's sort of a big deal.

As Garmin's second major foray into the world of Internet-connected PNDs and its first model powered by the nuLink data service, the Nuvi 1690 is poised to go head-up with not only our current favorite, the TomTom Go 740 Live, but also with the whole world of smartphone turn-by-turn apps.

But before I can test it, I have to open the darn thing up. Rather than just rip into the box with my teeth like I normally do, it was … Read more

Garmin communicates with your car via ESP

We stopped by Garmin's booth at the 2009 SEMA Show expecting a new GPS device or news of another OEM integration deal, but we stumbled upon something even better. Sometime next year, Garmin's Nuvi GPS devices will gain the ability to communicate with your car through ESP. In this case, we're not talking about psychic extra-sensory perception, but the EcoRoutes ESP module for Nuvi navigation devices.

The ESP module is a hideaway box that connects to (and is powered by) your vehicle's OBD-II diagnostics port. The device gathers information about your vehicle's performance and relays … Read more

Garmin Nuvifone G60 reviewed

Garmin's great success with its Nuvi line of portable GPS devices lead the company to try and extend its market into cell phones. And with numerous smartphones encroaching into navigation, it's not surprising that Garmin is trying to fight back. After a couple of years waiting for the Nuvifone to come out, CNET's Bonnie Cha got a hold of one. We expect good performance as a navigation device, but how wil it handle the smartphone side of the equation?

Read CNET's review of the Garmin Nuvifone G60.

Car Tech Live Podcast 138: Automakers announce line-ups for Tokyo Motor Show

Toyota recalls 3.8 million cars, automakers gear up for the Tokyo Motor Show, Garmin sets a date and price for the Nuvifone, and we go for a ride in Lincoln's smallest luxury car.

Subscribe with iTunes (audio) Subscribe with iTunes (video) Subscribe with RSS (audio) Subscribe with RSS (video) EPISODE 138 SHOW NOTES

• Toyota recalls vehicles over loose floor mats

• Skydeck concept: Honda's hybrid van of the future

• Mazda to show concept, fuel efficient engines in Tokyo

• Subaru's Tokyo concept surfs trends

• Reserve Nissan's Leaf EV starting Spring 2010

• Garmin Nuvifone G60 launching with AT&T on October 4… Read more