New Navigation Units to Watch For

Maybe companies haven’t quite figured out that dream device yet, but some gadgets at the show did pique our interest. Here are some of the highlights.

• Pioneer debuted two new navigations systems: the AVIC Z130BT (above) and AVIC X930BT. Smartphone compatible and featuring Pioneer’s free Aha Radio Mobile, the systems will broadcast audio versions of Twitter, Facebook and other social media outlets. Drivers will also be able to watch YouTube, Hulu or other web videos, but only when the vehicle is parked. Debuting in the spring, the pricey units will start at $1,000 to $1,500.
• Garmin will roll out a new line of nav systems called the nuvi 2400 series. It’s the typical 5-inch screen, with trafficTrends and myTrends features powered by nuRoute. The high-end 2460 model also has hands-free calling and voice activation.
• Garmin is launching a new iPhone navigation app for $39.99. Now available on iTunes, StreetPilot is different from its competitors only in that it doesn’t store a massive database of apps but rather downloads them as needed. The downside? You need a cell signal, and anyone who owns an iPhone can attest that AT&T does not always come through in the clutch. Let’s hope it works better on Verizon.