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More Than A Navigator

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Lifestyle Close-up
June 15, 2009 • Vol.6 Issue 7 Page(s) 52-53 in print issue
More Than A Navigator Additional Benefits GPSes Have To Offer

A GPS device can get you from Point A to Point B, but many GPS units offer other features that can be useful when you’re on the road. Whether you’re searching for somewhere to eat or you’re hoping to avoid traffic congestion, there’s a GPS device that can help make your journeys in life a little more convenient.

Bluetooth capabilities. Multitasking is a part of surviving your busy schedule, and often, the only time you have to make a few phone calls is when you’re driving in your car. Chatting on your mobile phone while navigating the road can be troublesome, especially if you’re not keeping your hands on the wheel and your eyes on the road. Rather than purchasing a separate hands-free Bluetooth kit, find a GPS device that has Bluetooth capabilities already built in. This feature will let you wirelessly connect your mobile phone to the GPS, keeping your hands free as you discuss your latest business meetings with colleagues. For added safety, you’ll not only be able to take phone calls with a Bluetooth-enabled GPS device, but you can also dial phone numbers with voice commands if your phone has a voice-dialing feature.

Web access. Some GPS devices include wireless Internet access. Because we live in a constantly changing world, your GPS will be able to automatically update its map and point-of-interest data, thanks to its Internet connectivity. Additionally, Internet access will help you find and research businesses in your area, which can be handy when you’re on your way home and want to pick up some flowers for your significant other. With access to the Web, you can comb through local florist reviews to ensure you’ll surprise her with the prettiest peonies in town. With an Internet-enabled GPS device, you’ll also have helpful information, such as gas station prices and movie showings, at your fingertips.

Lane assist. When you’re fighting heavy traffic in an unfamiliar area, trying to figure out whether you’re in the right lane can be frustrating and overwhelming. If you miss a turn or exit because you’re in the wrong lane, your rerouted journey may become longer, which could make you late for a scheduled appointment. To curb this common problem, GPS devices with a lane assist feature will tell you which side of the road you need to be on in order to safely make your exit.

Real-time weather and traffic. The more informed you are about your driving conditions, the easier it is to find a safe and efficient route. Having real-time weather information on hand can prepare you during your road travels for unexpected bad weather, such as rain or snow. In addition to weather information, live traffic updates will help you drive the quickest route to your destination by avoiding traffic jams and accidents that occur in real time. To help you avoid traffic delays caused by accidents, construction zones, or rush-hour bottlenecks, a GPS with live traffic will alert you of situations that may affect your driving time and let you decide if you want to reroute your path. This feature not only will help shave time off your estimated destination arrival time, but you also won’t run across any potentially hazardous or time-consuming traffic situations.

Voice recognition. When you’re driving from your house to meet a friend at a coffee shop and your travel plans suddenly change, voice-recognition capabilities will let you tell your GPS where you need to go next so you don’t have to fumble with menu inputs as you’re driving. Simply speak a command, such as your new point of interest, and your GPS will automatically reroute you to get you to where you need to go. Having speech recognition on hand is both convenient and safe, as it lets you keep both hands on the wheel yet still gets you where you need to go.

Safe & Happy Driving

Every GPS device offers route mapping and spoken directions, but by selecting a unit that offers a few extra features, you’ll be able to make your journey much easier. Whether you want to get somewhere as quickly as possible or want the added benefits of driving safely, there are a number of reasons why a GPS with advanced features is well worth the investment. GPS devices also offer other conveniences, such as support for satellite radio, JPEG and MP3 files, and map-sharing, so you’re sure to find a device that matches your driving needs.

by Tessa Warner Breneman

Motorcycle GPSes

>When meeting up with biker buddies at a rally or just heading to the office on a beautiful day, motorcyclists can also use help with navigating the streets. GPS manufacturers make devices meant for motorcycle use, which include features such as glove-friendly touchscreens; screens that deflect sun glare; motorcycle mounts; and tough, rugged exteriors that can withstand the elements, such as rain, wind, and snow. Plus, motorcycle-specific navigational devices include many of the same features in-car units provide, such as points of interest, traffic and weather alerts, Bluetooth capabilities, and wireless Internet access.

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