Satsports intros multi-use, all weather GPS receiver
updated 05:55 pm EDT, Thu October 15, 2009
Satsports outs smartphone apps, GPS device
Satsports has announced it has released its Multi-sports GPS system in North America, which allows skiers and other high-impact athletes to get navigation data. Users interface via a 2.7-inch full color touchscreen, and it can playback photos, videos and MP3s stored on microSD cards. Along with the device, the company also released Windows Mobile and Android OS applications that bring the functionality of the device to existing smartphone owners.
While all of the following applications are included in the device itself, they can also be downloaded separately for use in supported smartphones. The Satski application gives access to ski maps from around the world, and includes bars, restaurants and lodges. The app will record speed, altitude, distance and movement. An Emergency Feature makes it easier to find stranded skiers.
The Pocket Caddy app is meant for golfers and has 2D and 3D flyover of the holes on one of 700 preloaded courses. It gives live yardages to the front, middle and back of the green. It can also record information such as the club a player used and the lie of the ball. A Stats Viewer lets them replay the round in 3D later on a PC thanks to Google Earth. Users can also map their local courses in about 40 minutes using Google Earth and a special program.
The Satsports Log is meant for runners, walkers, cyclists and hikers, collecting data such as speed, distance, time and altitude.
The device can perform turn-by-turn navigation instructions with voice commands thanks to an SD card preloaded with street and city information for North America.
The cost of the Satsports Multi-sports GPS is $490, while the individual Windows Mobile applications can be downloaded for $8 each. Android applications will be available on the Android Market, with prices to be announced. The SD card that will allow navigation functionality will cost $65.
