Averatec Journeys Into The CE World

By Doug Olenick -- TWICE, 7/25/2006

Santa Ana, Calif. — Notebook computer maker Averatec has followed up on a two-year-old promise to branch out into the CE category with the introduction and shipment of a handheld personal navigation system.

The Voya 350 marks the first time Averatec has pushed outside its traditional IT product category. The device is centered on a 3.5-inch LCD, uses the Windows CE operating system and is powered by a Samsung 300MHz processor. Its street price ranges between $399 and $429.

It comes preloaded with NAVTEQ’s street-map software that covers all 50 states and Canada and has a database containing 1.6 million points of interest. There is an optional external antenna to amplify GPS reception.

The rechargeable battery holds a four-hour charge, and the Voya 350 comes with a car adapter and home charger.

Saeed Shahbazi, Averatec’s president, made another promise, saying the 350 is the first of many digital lifestyle products that his company will bring to market.