Cobra Slates First 18-Channel GPS Handhelds
By Amy Gilroy -- TWICE, 12/23/2002
CHICAGO — Cobra's first line of GPS handhelds, and the first to offer 18 channels vs. 12 channels, will ship in early 2003, according to the company.
The three new units, originally slated for delivery in fourth quarter 2002, are able to give a position reading from a "cold start" 50 percent faster than other handhelds, the company said.
In addition, Cobra has developed a new software system that it claims will solve some of the inherent difficulties in GPS software. It is based on a Microsoft Windows concept of pop up menus that act as "tutors" as the user navigates through the software. In addition, the new GPS units will ship with Rand McNally mapping software.
The GPS line leads with the GPS 100, which stores up to 500 waypoints with names and symbols and creates a route with up to 50 waypoints. At the top of the line is the GPS 1000, which can display up to five data fields and has a compass, altimeter and clock. Suggested retails range from $129 to $279.
Cobra also said it signed an exclusive licensing agreement with Harley-Davidson to launch a limited edition CB radio with the Harley-Davidson logo in the first quarter 2003. In addition, the CB will be sold in Harley-Davidson stores.
In radar detectors, Cobra will introduce this spring one of the first 11- band radar detectors, the company said.
