NaviGadget

yet another Mio A701 review

Apr 25, 2006 gps navigation, mio, phones, reviews

It looks like whoever can get their hands on a new Mio A701 is doing a full review. This one is from infoSync.

With the A701, phrases like the above are – for the most part – a thing of the past. A latest-generation SiRFstar III chipset and AGPS support offer precise positioning and quick multiple-satellite fixes without the need for an external antenna. The sleek device also benefits greatly from its bright 2.7-inch touch screen, which can be used in both portrait and landscape modes, striking a near-perfect balance between resolution and size to minimize the need for panning and zooming – the latter of which is an automated process in navigation mode. Outdoor viewing could be better, however.

Moving to actual navigation, easily distinguished hardware controls are joined by an informative interface in the Navigon Mobile Navigator 5 based Mio Map 2 software which could benefit from larger text and icons but is otherwise quite user friendly. Its horrid 20-second start-up time and a slightly anemic 3D interface aside, map detail is good, information is up-to-date, voice prompts are clea and concise, the points of interest database extensive and performance impeccable both with regard to route calculation and recalculation. Furthermore, favourites are easily stored and retrieved, while itinerary support is present and flexible.

Nice touches beyond required functionality include the ability to poll the Windows Mobile contacts database for routing, while the ability to route to and from map-selected locations (as opposed to addresses) and select profiles for pedestrian, biking and driving use are also appreciated. Speaking of driving, the A701 also comes with a windshield car mounting kit and charger. Maps of the entire European continent are delivered on a DVD; a bundled 512 MB SD Card easily holds at least one country at a time and often up to three, while the Navigon software also supports TMC data reception to allow for automatic rerouting around congested roads in countries where present.