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June 25, 2009 7:52 AM PDT

Get a 'Homer Simpson' GPS for $89.99 shipped

by Rick Broida
  • 19 comments

Drop an extra $12.95 and this TomTom GPS will tell you where to go--as Homer Simpson.

(Credit: TomTom)

Update: Sorry, folks, looks like Newegg sold out. That happens with many of the deals I post, so as always, if you see something you like, hurry before it's gone!

The best GPS deals these days fall in the $50-60 range, but sometimes it's worth paying a little extra. Case in point: Newegg has the refurbished TomTom One XL-S wide-screen GPS for $89.99 shipped.

So why is this model worth a few extra bucks? Two words: Homer Simpson. Like many TomTom nav systems, the XL-S lets you install (for a nominal charge) various celebrity voices.

The latest addition is "Simpsons" cast member Dan Castellaneta, who tells you where to go--as Homer.

Need I say more? Well, OK, I'll say more: The XL-S also offers a 4.3-inch touch screen, text-to-speech capabilities, Bluetooth, and an optional traffic-data receiver.

However, it's important to note that text-to-speech isn't available with the celebrity voices--only the built-in computer voice. Thus, Homer says things like, "At the end of the road, turn left," not, "Turn left on Evergreen Terrace."

Also, the Bluetooth capability doesn't afford hands-free calling like on some models. It does, however, allow you to download traffic data via your cell phone, without the need for the aforementioned receiver. (You still need a TomTom PLUS subscription, though.)

I particularly like TomTom's Map Share feature, which lets you make map changes and import changes made by other users. Also, the easy-to-use TomTom Home desktop software helps you update the device, install new voices, plan routes in advance, and so on.

The Homer voice costs $12.95, which I think is quite reasonable. It's optional, of course, and I'll admit the novelty does wear off--in about three years! Seriously, I so dig this that I'm selling the Sony GPS I bought a few months back and moving to the TomTom. You?

Originally posted at The Cheapskate
Rick Broida, a technology writer for nearly 20 years, is the author of more than a dozen books. In addition to writing CNET's The Cheapskate blog, he oversees BNET's Business Hacks. Rick is a member of the CNET Blog Network and is not an employee of CBS Interactive. Disclosure. Deals found on The Cheapskate are subject to availability, expiration, and other terms determined by sellers. Follow Rick on Twitter at cheapskateblog.
June 19, 2009 3:52 PM PDT

Gadgettes 142: What-a-concept episode

by Jason Howell
  • 6 comments

This week was FILLED with conceptual ideas that were sometimes pure genius, and sometimes pure WTH. Seriously, Pornisonic, we are talking to you! Natali Del Conte and Gknee join the party to make this extra-long episode 80 percent female, 20 percent male. Has this ever happened at CNET before?!

Listen now: Download today's podcast




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EPISODE 142

Programmable doorbell blends soothing chimes with real wood craftsmanship

Panasonic’s limp remote concept is both cool and unsettling

Tennis star Maria Sharapova dons geeky light-up phone dress

B-Touch cell phone with Braille touch screen is an iPhone for the blind

Nested cellphones track techno-evolution

Power outlet wall solves your electrical needs

... Read more
Originally posted at Gadgettes, the blog
April 21, 2009 10:19 AM PDT

Homer Simpson will protect your food from you

by John Chan
  • 10 comments
Homer Simpson Talking Fridge Guard (Credit: Drinkstuff.com)

Those on a diet who can't resist the temptations lurking in the refrigerator will appreciate the Homer Simpson Talking Fridge Guard. Meant to sit on one of your fridge shelves, Homer will recite one of his six canned phrases ("Uh oh. Someone's gonna have a tummy ache!" "Mmmm...fattening") every time you open the door.

Aside from giving guests a good laugh, this battery-operated gadget will shame you when trying to reach for that soda or cheesecake while trying to lose weight. There's nothing quite like the world's most famous slob to remind you to stay disciplined.

Quite a few gadget sites based in the U.K. list the product as being out of stock, but with a bit of searching we're sure you will be able find an online store with a ready unit for sale. It retails for about $29.

(Source: Crave Asia via bookofjoe)

October 1, 2007 3:29 AM PDT

Homer, the singing pool boy

by Mike Yamamoto
  • Post a comment
(Credit: Drinkstuff)

Just the thought of being in a swimming pool with Homer Simpson is enough to make anyone cringe. But if the situation is inevitable, it's probably best to have him in a supine position. The best feature of this floating Homer radio, aside from the sight of it alone, is the beer can on his belly: It serves as a volume or station control, depending on how his legs are positioned. On the other hand, it might be asking for trouble to have him involved in anything that requires electricity and water.

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