TomTom Adds RDS, User-Updated Maps

By Amy Gilroy -- TWICE, 6/18/2007

CONCORD, MASS. — TomTom's first personal navigation device (PND) with optional RDS-delivered real-time traffic information is the industry's first PND announced to date with embedded maps that can be updated by its owner.

The $499-suggested GO 720 is a slim-line PND with a 4.3-inch touchscreen and optional RDS real-time traffic. On other models, the company offers real-time traffic via Bluetooth-equipped cellphone.

A button on the new OPND lets users bookmark map errors that they might encounter while navigating. After the user stops driving, the GO 720 navigates users through a menu to make map changes, including changing street names or noting a reversed one-way street. Consumers can then connect the GO 720 to a PC to share the updates with other users through TomTom HOME software, which currently has one million users. TomTom says the software has built-in levels of security so that users can decide which map updates are the most reliable.

TomTom claims map upgrades to navigation systems in new cars can cost $300 to $400.

Other features include Bluetooth for hands-free dialing and a built-in FM transmitter to play back audible navigation prompts sound through the car's stereo system. It comes with preloaded maps of the United States and Canada on 2GB of internal flash memory as well as an SD card slot and lithium-polymer battery for five hours of operation. The unit ships at the end of July.