2008 SEMA – GPS Buddy adds two-way interactivity

As the portable GPS navigation market continues to grow, we are beginning to see creative aftermarket applications being developed. A notable new product seen at the SEMA show is the GPS-Buddy Connect. This product can be used as a standalone unit, but more interestingly, it can be paired with compatible Garmin units.

Priced at $399, the GPS-Buddy Connect replaces the standard Garmin power cable to provide tracking and messaging features. The tracking feature could enable companies to manage their fleets or parents to monitor their child’s driving. The GPS-Buddy also allows users to communicate with two-way text messaging by using the touchscreen keypad. The software to enable these features is standard on many Garmin GPS devices, though the list posted online does not include the current-generation products, such as the basic Nuvi 205 or voice-recognition Nuvi 880.

Another interesting feature is the ability to send new destinations to the device—again, a potentially useful tool for businesses. The connectivity for these features requires a GPS-Buddy Web-based Data Service Plan. This also allows a user to view updates of a vehicle's location, speed, and status every 60 seconds, reflected on the GPS-Buddy Web site. The Web-based service has different pricing options, with  $24.99 per month being typical.

—Frank Spinelli

Read about more cars, gear, news, and views from SEMA. For more information on portable GPS navigation systems, see our Ratings and buying advice and watch our video guide. Discuss GPS devices in the forums.

Comments

[Rob W]

Does any have any take on the MSN-Prepaid GPS Cards? I saw one for $49.95 at Best Buy. Any problems using them or any better deals out ther?-Thanks Rob W.