Five Things to Consider While Purchasing Automotive GPS

If you are purchasing your first GPS unit or you intend to upgrade your existing model you must consider following 5 key features:

1. Text to Speech vs. Voice Prompts
2. Size of the Screen
3. Mapping
4. Points of Interest
5. Form Factor

Text to Speech vs. Voice Prompts
‘Text to Speech’ is considered as one of the most important capabilities in navigation devices. The meaning of Text to speech is that the GPS will read out street names when you are being directed to turn (eg. Turn right on Main Street). Connecting street signs with the words being spoken makes finding your way much easier.

However keep in mind that Text to Speech and voice prompts are two different things. Voice prompts will call out the next turn (eg. Turn right in 500 meters), but drivers will often still rely on street signs or the GPS display to really know when to turn. Text to Speech is gaining popularity because it reduces the need to look at the GPS display, allowing drivers to concentrate on the road not the directions!

Size of the Screen
Sizes in which generally the GPS devices are available are generally 3.5” and 4.3”.
It is the perception of the customers that bigger screen is better than the smaller ones. However, smaller screens are often less intrusive and provide a greater view of the road. Moreover, if you are purchasing a model with text to speech is purchased, the need to glance at the GPS display should already be reduced, potentially eliminating the need for a large screen.

Larger screens, on the other hands provide a clearer view of the GPS display. If street names and icons appear larger, it can also make the GPS easier to use. This may be essential for users who would have difficulty viewing a smaller screen. However bigger screens are more expensive as compared to smaller screens so consumers should weigh their needs with the model they are purchasing.

Mapping
Mapping is an essential part of GPS device. Consumers should find out that what type of mapping comes with the GPS they are buying, especially if they travel often in the US
Now GPS devices are available with pre-loaded mapping. NAVTEQ mapping provides a highly detailed and accurate representation of roads. It can be found in most navigation-enabled vehicles produced in North America.
The range of mapping offered in Canada is:

1. Canada & US
2. Canada & US border cities
3. Canada only
   

Points of Interest
Automotive GPS are available with number of point of interests such as gas stations, coffee shops, restaurants, shopping centers, hotels etc loaded in them. On selecting POI, the GPS will automatically route you to that destination. The number of POIs your GPS provides varies depending on the model you choose with some offering more than others. These POIs can even be customized so that you only see the ones you want to. Although many users do not use POIs to their full potential, they can be very useful when you run out of gas and don’t know where the nearest gas station is!

Form Factor
What is the design of your automotive GPS? Is it bulky or slim? Latest models come in slim designs. A bulkier unit may not be an issue if you plan to use your GPS solely in the car. In case you want to carry your GPS device with yourself, more compact model might be preferable. Newer units even offer picture viewers and MP3 players as added conveniences.