Garmin intros nüvi 295W with Wi-Fi, autofocus camera
updated 10:00 pm EDT, Wed May 12, 2010
Nuvi 295W bridges gap with nuvifone
Garmin has quietly introduced the nüvi 295W, a new navigation device featuring Wi-Fi connectivity. The overall form factor gives the 295W an appearance similar to a smartphone, while the feature set is similar to a nüvifone without the voice communication capabilities. The device even automatically reorients the 3.5-inch touchscreen for portrait or landscape use.
Aside from the standard nüvi navigation functionality, the 295W allows users to access additional apps including a calculator, stopwatch, calendar, e-mail client and check list. The interface also provides a picture viewer, currency converter, and weather forecasts. Users can also view e-mail attachments, such as PDFs and Microsoft Office documents, directly from the nüvi interface.
Users can download pictures from Garmin Connect, while the company's Locate feature automatically saves the location of a vehicle when the device is removed from a dock. Users can also download custom voices and vehicle icons using Garmin Garage.
The nüvi ships preloaded with North American maps, while the package includes a vehicle suction-cup mount and cables. Customers can pre-order the 295W from Amazon for $280, with a release date of May 16. [via GPS Tracklog]
