Garmin readying special device for Macworld?
updated 05:10 pm EST, Tue January 8, 2008
Garmin Device at Macworld
Garmin is preparing a special device that it will launch next week at Macworld, says an official company blog. Though the GPS manufacturer expects to demonstrate typical Mac-compatible hardware and software at the show, it also claims to have a mystery project nicknamed "Bobcat." No details are provided for the product, though company blogger Chet expects it will receive a warm reception.
"I think you're going to like it," he says.
The release is not likely to be a new GPS navigator from the company, most of which are already explicitly compatible with Macs for loading new maps and other data. None of Apple's Macs or handheld devices also currently support integrating a GPS receiver or include mapping of any sort except for the iPhone, which includes a basic Google Maps utility which is expected to receive triangulation-based, simulated positioning in its 1.1.3 firmware update.
I wonder...
01/08, 06:14pm reply
...if "Bobcat" is a port of Mac OS X to run on Garmin GPS hardware? Afterall, big cat names have so far been associated with operating systems in the Mac arena haven't they?
srmoll
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Joined: Sep 2004
or...
01/08, 08:44pm reply
Maybe it's a Bluetooth GPS with companion software on the iPhone. If so, I can only say: IT'S ABOUT TIME!!!
TheBum
Mac Enthusiast
Joined: Sep 2001
garmin software on a mac?
01/08, 09:47pm reply
Since when does Garmin maps work on a MAC ?If you're talking about that beta software coverter its is unstable and fails most of the time. We don't need new hardware Garmin we need your software to work with OS X .....
tm510a
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Joined: Feb 2006
I have no idea...
01/08, 11:28pm reply
why Garmin just don't hire Panic or Omni or any of the other highly talented Mac developers to do their software. Anything so far has been craptacular at best.
macnorway2000
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Joined: Nov 2006
wish list
01/08, 11:49pm reply
I'm not sure if it's new hardware. They already make great products. I am just hoping for a Mac version of MapSource. This will let you transfer routes, tracks, etc to your Mac. Right now you have to use a PC. There is beta software to convert and install maps to your Mac but blah! It work well and I'm glad it's possible but . . . dang!
There's a program to transfer maps (topo, city navigator) from you Mac to GPS too but if you have to use a PC for Mapcenter anyway . . .
I hope bobcat is just software that let's us use our gps with our Macs. It doesn't sound like much but if you're gps and mac user, you know what I'm talking about.
benhur
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fools
01/09, 09:19am reply
Anyone who would trust anything Garmin would say about mac compatibility is just asking to be taken for a ride.
Its nice to hear Chet thinks he'll get a warm reception (just saying the words "iPhone" and "GPS" will get you that from the freaks), but implementation and delivery is what people NEED to hear. Not promises and fantasies.
testudo
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