NaviGadget

The best GPS phones of CeBIT 2006

Mar 14, 2006 gps navigation, phones, reviews

At CeBIT 2006, GPS phones are finally making their debut en masse; some even get bonus points for strong business performance, and we’re here to tell you which ones caught our eye.

Mio Technology Mio A701

Blazing performance, good looks and a compact form factor; with the exception of the lack of one-handed navigation, the GPS-enabled Mio A701 makes for an excellent alternative for road warriors aiming to reduce the number of devices carried. Its high-resolution display switches effortlessly between portrait and landscape mode, while AGPS support enables accurate navigation in areas where satellite reception is poor. Bonus features include Windows Mobile 5.0, a 1.3 Megapixel camera and considerable amounts of memory. Due out this summer, €650 EUR. More…

BenQ-Siemens SXG75

The smallest and lightest GPS handset currrently available, the Linux-powered BenQ-Siemens’ SX75 presents a perfectly legible user interface on its 2.2-inch screen housed in a candybar form factor. Complete with 3G connectivity and a 2 Megapixel camera for video calling and still picture taking, it’s a well-rounded alternative for consumers looking for GPS but not willing to compromise on other features. Also sporting a stereo FM radio with RDS and RS-MMC memory expansion, the SXG75 is available now for €375 EUR. More…

Fujitsu Siemens Pocket LOOX T830

The Fujitsu Siemens’ Pocket LOOX T830 is an impressively compact yet connectivity-laden device which in addition to GPS also boasts 3G, Wi-Fi 802.11b/g, Bluetooth 2.0 and USB 1.1 as well as a row of business-oriented features including a decent thumbboard and a 2 Megapixel camera for video calling. Unfortunately, its display is not only of low resolution but also rather small at 2.4 inches, and as such does not lend itself well to GPS navigation in addition to being somewhat cramped for ordinary use. Due out this July, the device is expected to sell from €700 EUR and upwards. More…

BenQ-Siemens P51

Nearly identical to its P50 predecessor, the BenQ-Siemens P51 improves on the maker’s first proper business phone with features including Windows Mobile 5.0, built-in Wi-Fi 802.11b/g and even integrated GPS. Alas, despite these features and snappy performance, the device lacks support for 3G or even EDGE – but at least includes Bluetooth and a top-notch, 2.8-inch touch screen. Its thumbboard is also quite comfortable, but is difficult to use in daylight as its silkscreened keys offer virtually no contrast… via