TOM TOM GO 720 GPS VOICE ACTIVATED /BLUETOOTH

With an effective in-car navigation system at your side, you can say goodbye to the old days of pulling over, shuffling maps, and asking for directions. Yet designing an effective system -- one that brings together the right mix of speed, accuracy, and simplicity -- has been a long, hard road for many manufacturers, leading many folks to stick with the gas station attendant. The latest in-car GPS units deserve a serious look, though, especially by those who've dismissed them as too inaccurate, too complicated, or too expensive. The TomTom GO 720 embodies much of what's really great about the next generation of GPS systems, and in many ways it's successful at making drivers feel as if there's a helpful guide along for the ride.

Design
The heart of every GPS device is its receiver technology, and the TomTom GO 720 has the best in the business -- the highly sensitive GPS receiver, which boasts fast satellite acquisition times, and extreme accuracy, even when you're driving through dense forests or tall buildings. Also under the hood is a 400 Mhz processor supported by 64 MB of RAM, which gives the GO 720's interface a zippy feel. The included 2 GB Flash memory  is pre-loaded with maps and points of interest (POIs) for the US  and Canada. Pre-loaded maps and points of interest are a big plus, allowing you to get going right out of the box.

Weighing in at 7.75 ounces and measuring 4.65 x 3.27 x .94 inches, the GO 720 is about the size of a softball. TomTom is known for keeping things simple, and that's the case here: there are no buttons or other doodads on the front of the device, only a big, bright widescreen (480 x 272 pixels) display that's controlled by touch. There's also a microphone for hands-free phone calls just above the display. A single button for power is placed on the top of the device, while a single speaker is placed on the bottom. There's a docking port here, too, which supplies power and data connectivity.

Interface
The GO 720's easy-to-read display, logical menu and navigation functions, and excellent voice prompts bring the whole hardware and software package together nicely. You'll feel like you're using a tool intended for the job, not a piece of software cobbled together to run on generic hardware.

The anti-glare widescreen display offers a clear 3D view of the road and maneuvers ahead. The screen uses a built-in sensor to adjust to changing light conditions. The navigation screen is split into three sections: The main map display, which shows a three dimensional view of the road and maneuvers ahead; a distance and turn indicator section, which lets you know how far you have to go until your next turn; and a trip computer with odometer, time, and GPS signal information. The bottom of the display also lets you know the name of the street you're on.

Installation
Installing the GO 720 couldn't be easier. A rotating suction cup mount attaches to the windshield and the GO 720 clips into it securely. Positioning the mount for easy viewing is a snap, and after some initial setup procedures you'll be up and running.

The mount accommodates an array of connections, including power, an external GPS antenna, an optional RDS-TMC traffic receiver for FM radio-based traffic updates, audio out, and a microphone connector. In addition to a car power adapter, The GO 720 ships with an external microphone for Bluetooth hands-free calls.

While the GO 720 does have an internal rechargeable battery, it should be treated as a backup in most cases. TomTom rates its life at 2 hours, which probably helps to keep the size, weight, and cost of the ONE down. The device also ships with a home USB docking cradle, as well as an AC wall charger. Using the included TomTom Home software on your PC, you can manage POIs, plan routes, purchase and manage additional TomTom services, and more.

Small plus and minus symbols in the upper corners of the screen allow you to zoom in or out of the 3D map view. While the symbols could be a bit larger and more clear, the design is a tradeoff, as their size means they don't get in the way of map information. If you have traffic information engaged, whether via wireless data connectivity, or via an RDS-TMC traffic receiver, a small traffic icon appears on the right side of the screen, alerting you of traffic tie-ups ahead. A quick press of the traffic info button in the main menu allows you to find routes with fewer snags.

Extras
If you have wireless data service through your cellular carrier, the GO 720 takes full advantage of it with TomTom Plus services.  You can add real-time traffic, weather, and safety camera information. You can also download additional POIs, maps, and voices via the service. Another feature, TomTom Buddies, allows you to see and communicate with your connected friends as they travel. If you have wireless data service and a Bluetooth-capable phGO 720, TomTom Plus is worth a look.

K e y   F e a t u r e s :

• The latest and most complete maps: Detailed maps of the Australia / New Zealand/Central & Eastern Europe  2009 v8.35 all pre-installed. Allows seamless door-to-door navigation throughout these regions without having to switch maps.
• MapShare: submit corrections and additions to Maps.
• HELP ME!: On the road and have an emergency, Press the HELP ME button on the main menu and it will guide you to the nearest emergency service.
• Route choice: Plan your route to fit your requirements, such as: quickest, shortest, avoiding toll roads and congestion charge areas, by required arrival time, etc.
• Itinerary planning: Program in the schedule of places you want to visit before you leave the house.
• Multi-segment Routing:  Going on a trip but need to stop at the ATM, first, or taking a vacation, and need to find the shortest route to all the major attractions.
• Start-up configuration: Customize how and where your GO 720 opens up when you turn it on: last location, with a slideshow or your preferred chosen menu.
• Huge choice: TomTom GO 720 speaks 36 languages in more than 50 different voices.
• Bluetooth connectivity: Connect your GO 720 to your mobile phone, headset, car speakers or headphones hassle-free with Bluetooth technology.
• Remote control (available option): You or a passenger can operate your GO 720 from anywhere in the car. Making your journey easier and safer.
• Hands-free car kit: TomTom GO 720 doubles as a hands-free car kit using Bluetooth technology. So you can make & receive calls as you drive via your touchscreen.
• Automatic pick-up: Can automatically answer your phone calls, for improved safety and comfort.
• Clear & accurate spoken and visual instructions: Easy to follow, calm instructions given with plenty of notice mean that you can focus on your driving.
• TomTom GO 720 comes ready for a wide range of TomTom PLUS services and downloads, including
• Buddies: Locate your friends. Instant messaging and navigation merge together. Find, invite and add friends to your GO. And even send each other text messages while you’re on the road.
• Real-time traffic & road condition information: TMC (Traffic Message Channel) alerts you to traffic jam alerts with the best alternative route and road condition warnings that help you put safety first. (Addition TMC receiver required.)
• Realistic visual instructions: Visuals on your GO replicate road signs, making them easier to follow.
• Touchscreen: Easy to operate. And no awkward buttons!
• Extra wide LCD screen: 4.3, high quality LCD screen with crystal-clear 3D graphics, 480x272 pixels, and 64,000 colors for optimal visibility.
• Intuitive user interface: Combined with the large touchscreen, it gives you the perfect navigation experience.
• Light sensor: Screen adjusts itself to different light circumstances, ensuring maximum visibility, day or night.
• Anti-glare screen: Always gives an optimal view, even in direct sunlight.
• Compass: Displays compass on screen, for even better orientation.