New voice for TomTom GPS: Homer Simpson

Doh! The latest celebrity voice available for download to a TomTom portable GPS device is that of the patriarch of the long-running The Simpsons television show, Homer. Commemorating the animated program’s 20th anniversary, Homer can bring some levity to navigation, with his signature sayings, wit, and laughter.

More than just speaking the directions, Homer will interject his own food-driven commentary. For example, “Take the third right. We might find an ice cream truck! Mmm…ice cream.” 

Priced at $12.95, Homer is a premium voice. Other voices are available for TomTom Go, One, XL, and Rider devices, ranging from generic character actors to celebrities, like John Cleese. (Read: “GPS navigation celebrity voices: You talkin' to me?”)

In addition, TomTom’s portable navigation devices offer access to download up to 70 preloaded voices in 36 languages. Customizing has been a distinguishing trait for TomTom. Garmin offers just a couple of voices, though users can choose from many animated onscreen cursors in place of the generic car that shows your location, from a fire truck to a piece of pie. Homer might choose that one himself.

Any other voices you’d like to be able to download? For me, Optimus Prime would be high on my list.

—Jeff Bartlett

For more information on portable automotive GPS navigation systems, see our Ratings and buying advice and watch our video guide. Discuss GPS devices in the forums.

Comments

[Michelle]

Does it say D'oh! if you make a wrong turn?

[Jeff Bartlett - Consumer Reports]

That would seem to be a natural, but a contact at TomTom says it does not. Doh!

[Steve Reed]

The additional voices are really fantastic, especially if one has young kids in the car. It's amazing how long it keeps them entertained.

There are a lot of new voices at present, Peter and Stewie Griffin being favorites, but SpongeBob Squarepants is still hanging on in there.

www.tomtomvoices.org