TomTom yesterday announced three new satellite navigation devices, boasting features such as lifetime maps and speed limit information.
The new ‘Start’ range comes in three variants: the 42, 52 and 62. Each has screen sizes of 4.3”, 5” and 6” respectively, with an integrated reversible mount that allows drivers to switch between windshield and dashboard mounting. TomTom has also thrown in exclusive features such as Advanced Lane Guidance and average speed limit information to help you stay on the right side of the law.
While this is all well and good, it did get us thinking whether or not the traditional sat nav system is still relevant anymore? Most people use smartphones for navigation and naturally, that’s a device that everyone nearly always has on hand. According to figures obtained by TomTom, 61% of British drivers still use a personal navigation device, so the market is obviously still there in some form.
Speaking to Julien Speed at TomTom, he brought up a few key points about why the traditional sat nav is yet to fully disappear. “Maybe you always want to be able to plan a route – with or without cellular reception. Or you wish to avoid mobile phone charges for navigation, especially when abroad (roaming)”.
The second point in particular is definitely a unique selling point of the traditional satellite navigation system… At least until international roaming plans become more commonplace. Currently, there’s only really Three to choose on that front, so consumers will likely still consider a personal navigation device if they’re tied into a contract with another network operator.
Julien carries on to say that the new TomTom Start series also has features that are currently unavailable with comparative software navigation apps. ‘Average speed limit’ information is a unique addition that calculates the current speed of the driver when in a limited zone, though most software applications have a speed readout that can be easily monitored for a basic average.
The Start 42 and 52 are available now, with prices starting from £109.99 for the base 42 model. The Start 62 is currently unavailable, with a slated release sometime in July.
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