Dell to Release Bluetooth GPS Antenna

[Jonathon Watkins]

<i>Meanwhile, Dell this week announced its first Bluetooth GPS antenna. Based on technology from Navteq, which also provides the maps. The navigation software included in the $249 bundle isn't known. Dell already offers a range of GPS bundles centring on its Axim x5, x3 and x30 PocketPC lines, including kit from the likes of TomTom and Pharos. However, this is the first time the company has offered own-brand GPS peripherals in the package.</i><br /><br /> <img src="http://www.pocketpcthoughts.com/images/web/2003/dellgps.jpg" /> <br /><br />The Dell empire continues to expand apace I see. Now Dell owners can track exactly where they are in it. :wink: It will be interesting to see the bundles Dell will be offering with this. So, I wonder when this can be paired with a nice new VGA PPC from Dell. :)<br /><br /><b>Update: </b> PDA Buyer's Guide have published an in-depth review of the Dell Bluetooth GPS package, <a href="http://www.pdabuyersguide.com/tips/GPS/Dell_Bluetooth_GPS.htm">here</a>. Bottom line? They like it (more or less :wink: ).

[badbob001]

$249 seems rather pricey compared to the recently release Earthmate BlueLogger GPS for $149 (w/ PDA Street Atlas). Does anybody know if the extra $100 is worth it? Is the dell one more accurate, faster, or ???

bluelogger (http://www.earthmate.com/prod_bluelogger.asp?p=2)

[snowlion]

$249 seems rather pricey compared to the recently release Earthmate BlueLogger GPS for $149 (w/ PDA Street Atlas). Does anybody know if the extra $100 is worth it? Is the dell one more accurate, faster, or ???



this is the same unit as the one HP is selling for $325 - except it's got
a silver finish.

not too hot about the finish - because i bet it'll reflect in the sun.

also the leds are kinda bright - especially at night-time.

[Askani]

Actually, the casing is different, but it appears to be the same as the HP one.

[dacs29]

I've noticed that a lot of Bluetooth GPS units look identical. Could it be that they are all based off of one design?

David

[ventivent]

Although the retail value of this package is $249, keep in mind that this is Dell, which means at any given time, they are running some sort of 10 to 15% off special, and there are probably a few $30 to $50 off coupons floating out there. So you can expect to purchase this after discounts for around $200.

Also, this package comes with a powered dashboard mount which can charge both the PDA and the GPS receiver. A typical Seidio mount like this will cost at least $55.

V

[rzanology]

can these things work with a laptop with bluetooth?

[Pat Logsdon]

can these things work with a laptop with bluetooth?
Yup. All communication is done via the serial profile, so it should work just fine. 8)

[Paul P]

The review mentions "The in-vehicle power adapter can charge both the GPS receiver and the handheld at the same time." Can anyone recommend one for HP GPS Navigation unit? (if one exists :) )

Thanks much

[ventivent]

The review mentions "The in-vehicle power adapter can charge both the GPS receiver and the handheld at the same time." Can anyone recommend one for HP GPS Navigation unit? (if one exists )

Check out products from Seidio. They make decent vehicle mounts, albeit a bit on the expensive side.

http://www.seidio.com/company/seidio.html

V

[Wilbert]

I have a feeling Dell will have a new VGA model soon... :wink:

[Jonathon Watkins]

I have a feeling Dell will have a new VGA model soon... :wink:

Just a guess/hope or do you know something you can share?