Garmin International has announced the iQue 3200, which joins the iQue 3600 as the only Palm Powered personal digital assistants (PDAs) that offer fully integrated Global Positioning System (GPS) technology. These products combine the portability of a PDA and the utility of an automotive navigation system in a sleek, lightweight design.
The iQue 3200 is designed for individuals who want a device that can manage their personal information and deliver personal navigation in a single unit.
"We believe auto-navigation handhelds are one of the fastest growing segments in the industry today. Garmin is a leader in that market, and we're delighted that it's expanding its product line," said Michael Mace, chief competitive officer at PalmSource Inc.
"One of the strengths of Palm OS is that it is flexible enough to support a wide variety of devices. So, people can get the hardware they want, like a GPS unit, and still run the wide range of Palm OS software programs."
The iQue 3200 features Garmin's Que technology, a set of applications that provides the user with the benefits of GPS navigation, including location awareness on an electronic map, automatic route generation, off-route recalculation, turn-by-turn directions and voice guidance.
Que technology fully integrates organisation and navigation capabilities in the iQue 3200, allowing users to attach a "location stamp" to a contact in their Address Book or an appointment in their Date Book. The user can then follow voice prompts along a series of turns to the selected location.
Thanks to a bright 320x320-pixel color display, users can see navigation data at a glance. Additional screen space is dedicated to a Graffiti area for data input. Garmin also includes an automotive navigation kit as a standard accessory that simultaneously powers the unit and recharges the battery via the power outlet in a vehicle.
The iQue 3200 is expected to be available in the US in August 2004 at a suggested retail price of US$535.70. It will ship in the US standard with a MapSource, City Select CD, USB recharging synchronisation cradle, an AC adapter, automotive windshield mount with integrated charger and speaker, installation CD with owner's manual, and quick-reference guide.
For more information see www.garmin.com or call Chapman Avionics on 07 3860 0711 or email Michael.steenberg@chapav.com.au