As a Mapopolis user for many years, I was sad to see them close their doors last year. But this did force me to consider a new option for GPS mapping on my Palm Treo 700P. After looking at several products, I decided to go with TomTom 6 and I am sure glad I did.
TomTom Navigator 6 is a multi-platform mapping program that works on Palm, Pocket PC and other platforms. Since I live in the United States I purchased the DVD that contains the United States and Canada. I chose to install Texas (the state I live in), a new voice (British female) and highway maps for the entire country. After installing the software and going through the activation process I was ready to get started using the program. To get started, I set my home address, configured which points of interest (POIs) to display, and paired my Bluetooth GPS unit. I was now ready to go for a trip.
After a GPS signal is established, you need to choose a destination. This can be done by entering an address, selecting a POI, choosing a point on a map, selecting a contact from the Palm address book, or even by entering a latitude/longitude point. The system will then calculate the driving directions to your destination. While driving you can use the up/down rocker switch to zoom in and out. Also as you are driving POIs are shown on the map, this is a big help when looking for a gas station or somewhere to eat. The voice prompts will tell you when and which direction to turn. The map screen is split in two sections, the upper section shows a map, traffic status and optional compass. The lower section shows distance until next turn, distance to destination, estimated time en-route (ETE) and estimated time of arrival (ETA).
Summary: After using the program for 2 weeks, I can safely say this is the best GPS mapping solution I have ever used. The install and registration process was slightly confusing, but other than that the program ran without a hitch. I would recommend this program to anyone, including my mom!
Pros: weather forecasts, large button for use with finger, large easy to read screen, night mode, auto re-routing.
Cons: must pay for traffic updates, install process slightly confusing.
Price: $149 USD
http://www.tomtom.com/products/...