The fix according to the NTSB is to ban hands free phones in cars, not just using phones actually held in the hand. What we really need to do is ban idiot drivers. Stopping distracted drivers is impossible because there are simply too many things that can distract, not that we shouldn’t try and reduce distracted driving. As the AP reports the thing missing from the research and studies on cell phone use while driving is hard evidence that connects mobile phones and an increase in traffic accidents in the US.

The incidence of traffic accidents on the highways around the country is actually dropping. Accidents in the US were at their lowest level since 1949 last year. I agree with the people against this hands free ban. If you are going to outlaw any mobile phone use in the car, you might as well mandate cars all be single seaters, no talking in the car while driving, and no radio. Those all distract as much as talking on the phone. I am not convinced there is any way to stop distracted driving by mandate from the government, what do you think?

[via AP]

Hardware

Like previous models, the ContourROAM design follows function more than form. A simple barrel design, with the lens at the front, controls have been slimmed down to just an Instant Record Switch, which automatically powers on the camera and starts recording. A flip down panel at the back reveals a microSD card slot, reset and format buttons, and a microUSB port for charging and syncing.

There’s no preview display, but the wide-angle 170-degree, f2.8 lens can be rotated around 270-degrees, and has an integrated laser line to help make sure it’s pointed at the right target. Mounting is either via a standard tripod or one of Contour’s Trail mounts, allowing you to slap the ContourROAM onto a safety helmet, roll cage or handlebars.

The main changes between this and other Contours is that it’s waterproof to 1m (for up to 30 minutes), and has a lens that’s flush to the front of the camera; however, it also lacks GPS. It’s easier to use, thanks to that single Instant Record Switch, though the ContourROAM does lack the two preset video quality settings as on the Contour+. In fact, if you want to change the bitrate or resolution, you need to plug the ContourROAM into your computer and run the configuration app.

Performance

Though it’s not the first camera you might reach for to document a family vacation, the ContourROAM fits its brief very well. We’ve left it to rattle around unprotected – bar a lens cap – in a gadget bag, with no resulting scratches or damage, and its survived dunks into water too. The simple control system helps bypass any “it wasn’t turned on” missed moments.

Framing a shot takes a little getting used to, though the laser sight helps. Since there’s no preview display there’s some guesswork involved, particularly when you realize that the field of view changes depending on the quality settings. If you’re recording Full HD 1080p, it’s 111-degrees (either wide or tall, depending on the angle you’ve twisted the lens to) whereas in Tall HD 960p mode it broadens out to 135-degrees. Maximum width possible is 170-degrees.

As you can see in our video samples, the end result is surprisingly good. Full HD is crisp and, while vibrations and knocks can certainly travel through depending on what you’ve attached the ContourROAM to, with a steady mount it’s capable of very watchable footage. Even underwater clips are successful. On the downside, audio recording isn’t great and there’s no way to plug in a separate microphone. We’d love it if Contour added Bluetooth to the camera and allowed us to use a wireless mic.

Wrap-Up

At $199 the ContourROAM isn’t the cheapest rugged camera around, but you’re getting more for your money than just a tough, waterproof housing. The convenience factor of the single control makes it just as useful as a second eye when you’re manually operating a primary camera as it is for sports recording when you don’t want to be messing with a panel full of buttons. Best of all there’s no sacrifice of quality in the name of durability.

It’s definitely a niche product – this isn’t the point & shoot camcorder for your mom, unless perhaps she’s a snowboarder as well – but if you need ease of use, rugged construction and the ability to shoot up to Full HD video without worrying about the occasional water mishap, the ContourROAM ticks all the boxes.

Related video: Test drive Contour+ & GoPro: Lotus EVORA S and Infiniti Hardtop Convertible G37

The thing that sets this hands free device apart for the masses is that it looks like a little person sitting on the dash. The answer/reject button is in the little figures belly and the arm has the volume control on it. Speaky will speak the instructions for power on and ready to pair as well as other prompts like low battery to the user.

Speaky also has noise cancellation features and an automatic sleep mode that will go into sleep when it is away from your phone for five minutes. The device also has motion sensing and will turn on when it senses the person get into the car. No PIN is needed for paring and it can connect with two devices at one time. The Speaky also supports VoIP with your computer. It measures 77 x 68 x 56mm, has up to six hours of talk per charge, and can be on standby for up to 38 days.

[via Bluetrek]

AppLink allows the user to control certain apps on their smartphones using the Sync hands free system in the car. At launch, AppLink was very limited in the vehicles it was available for. Ford has announced that it has added compatibility to ten more Ford vehicles that was previously on the 2012 Mustang and Fiesta.

The new 2012 model year vehicles to support AppLink include Ford Fusion, Fusion Hybrid, Fiesta, F-150, F-150 SVT Raptor, Super Duty, Expedition, E-Series and Shelby GT500. AppLink allows the driver to voice control apps like Stitcher for music and others. More apps are being added that are AppLink enabled as well. Ford also reports that 2,500 developers have signed up to offer apps that work with AppLink so far.

The art isn’t only for the ladies either; the black one with the white flames/tribal motif might interest some of the guys. The copper colored one with the braid looks meant for the ladies. i.Tech also offers the thing in brushed silver and black or white with silver as well. No matter the design, they all get the same hardware inside.

The 610 has up to five hours of talk time, 130 hours of standby, and takes only three hours of a full charge and 15 minutes for 1.5 hours of talk. The device uses Bluetooth 3.0 + EDR Class 2. It uses a single multi function button for handling calls and measures 52mm L x 17mm W x 5.5mm T. The headset will sell for about $50 and is in Asia right now with no word on US availability.

[via iTech]

Built-in Bluetooth also connects to your phone, so you have a viewfinder to check the angle, with an HDMI port to connect to a screen without having to pull the microSD card. It also has the first external 2.5mm microphone jack on any hands-free camera, so it will separate the audio you want from ambient noise surrounding you.

The Contour has three resolutions, four frame rates, and a five-megapixel still mode, as well as an interactive GPS receiver which tracks speed, location, and elevation at four frames per second.

And here is your obligatory PR quote, though this one is from stunt driver Greg Tracy, not a CEO, so it’s more interesting:

“When I’m shooting action, I love to put the audience in the middle of it and experience it first-hand. With the Contour+, I’ll be able to do this like never before.” said Tracy. “With its professional-grade lens, connectivity options and size, the Contour+ is the perfect tool for my demanding production work, and it won’t break the bank.”

The camera sells for $499, and we are seeing it available on Amazon, and B&H Photo, Video, and Pro Audio starting May 18. It is available for pre-order now.

Here are the specs:
· Wide angle 170 degree F2.8 lens
· Flush-front lens
· 270 degree on-axis smooth lens rotation
· Streaming of live video via HDMI port
· Configurable White Balance
· Playback of full-display HD Video through HDMI port
· Rear door pass-through for USB and HDMI ports
· 4Hz (4 times per second) performance of GPS Receiver

And also check out the video of the Contour in action here..

Press release:

TAKE STORYTELLING TO THE NEXT LEVEL WITH NEW CONTOUR+ HANDS-FREE VIDEO CAMERA – AVAILABLE TODAY

Contour’s Latest Innovation Adds Richness to Stories with Progression in Video, Location, Audio, and Streaming

SEATTLE, Wash. – May 12, 2011 – Contour, Inc. (http://www.contour.com),a market leader in hands-free video cameras, today announced Contour+, Contour’s first camera for the broadcast and pro-sumer markets. The Contour+ marks the next progression in hands-free video and represents the company’s continued focus on leading the market’s innovation. The Contour+ is now available at Contour.com and retail partners for $499.

“Nowhere on Earth is off limits to filmmakers and other visual storytellers, but there are plenty of places standard pro cameras can’t go,” said Marc Barros, Contour CEO. “Contour+ delivers high-quality video, audio, location data and streaming capabilities anywhere there’s a story to tell. Today, anyone can be a documentarian or filmmaker, and we’ve created the most affordable way to give pro-sumers, broadcast and filmmakers everything they need to tell incredibly rich stories from right within the action.”

The hands-free and wireless technology that has established Contour’s technical leadership in the market is augmented with progressions in the lens, first-ever features in the hands-free market, andmore to create a new era in the technical side of storytelling. The camera’s powerful and unique combination of technical features has piqued the interest of industry tastemakers including Film Producer and Freeride Entertainment Director, Derek Westerlund.

“Hands-free is a big revolution in the camera space, but we haven’t had anything that was progressive enough to use on professional shoots until now,” said Westerlund. “The Contour+ allows me to capture great POV shots and will help bring the movie’s story to life. The Contour+ is the new standard for next generation, high-quality, hands-free cameras.”

Greg Tracy, a renowned stunt driver and filmmaker who has worked on feature films such as “Bourne Ultimatum,” “Wanted,” and “The Town,” looks forward to using the new Contour+ on his upcoming professional shoots. “When I’m shooting action, I love to put the audience in the middle of it and experience it first-hand. With the Contour+, I’ll be able to do this like never before.” said Tracy. “With its professional-grade lens, connectivity options and size, the Contour+ is the perfect tool for my demanding production work, and it won’t break the bank.”

How Contour+ Delivers

The next progression in hands-free cameras lets explorers:

• Expand Field of Vision: A six-element glass lens delivers 1080p video quality, an adjustable white balance to dial-in details and a 170-degree field of view to clearly integrate peripherals and backdrops in each shot

• Deliver Live Action: Streaming video via HDMI and an external transmitter broadcasts the action in real-time

• Stay Connected Better than any POV Camera: Built-in Bluetooth connects to a mobile phone, creating a wireless viewfinder to check the angle; a HDMI port allows instant replay on a laptop or widescreen direct from the included microSD card

• Capture Crisp Audio: The first external 2.5mm microphone jack on any hands-free camera helps distinguish featured audio from ambient noise

• Benefit from Contour’s Signature Elements: Three resolutions, four frame rates and a five-megapixel still mode are available to customize the shot; an internal interactive GPS receiver tracks speed, location, and elevation at four frames per second

Shipping today from Contour.com, the Contour+ is also available from Amazon.com; B&H Photo, Video, and Pro-Audio; Gear Co-Op, Paragon, and Samy’s Camera.

Contour’s complete collection of high quality, easy-to-use cameras, including the ContourGPS and ContourHD, provide a variety of solutions to fit every adventurer’s need. The company helps people further share their stories with its free apps and online community.

About Contour

Contour is a market leader in the hands-free video camera category. Producing simple, thoughtfully designed and intuitive adventure storytelling tools, Contour, enables modern day explorers to use video and location-based video to relive and replay their personal tales ofaction, adventure and travel, sharing them with world at the touch of a button. For more information about Contour please visit www.contour.com.

Two models were on hand, one with the cover on, one where we were able to take a peek under the hood. As you can see in the images above and below, there are indeed three speakers featured on this device, each of them pumping sweet sounds directly to your ears for superior quality sound as it connects to your device, be it an iPad 2, mp3 player, or video game console. The look we’ve been given is the first that anyone in the whole wide world of media has seen it, and we got a really nice fellow to give us a full run-through of the details.

What this device reminds me of is the Motorola Roadster, a device which you can peek at a review of [right over here]. The reason I mention that particular unit is that it’s got many of the same features that this one does. The difference is that this one’s made in a slightly more third-party manner, this meaning that a whole market of speakers, receivers, and transmitters has potentially been cracked open. We’re excited because we really did enjoy the ability to wirelessly connect to the car’s audio whenever entering the car, and this device looks just lovely.

Have a peek at the video above, and the pics above and below, and be sure to take a look back at the [announcement post] for more technical specs.

The onStar mirror is now called OnStar FMR or For My Vehicle. The mirror will land this summer and will sell for $299. Other than a new name, OnStar has changed the hardware inside the mirror for better sound quality. A new microphone was crammed inside that makes for best-in-class voice quality.

OnStar says that the new mic is now as good as the best hands free speaker phones on the market today. The OnStar FMV mirror will still provide the navigation services and security services that made the service famous in GM vehicles for so many years. The hands free calling with the FMV mirror can be done with OnStar service or with connectivity to the user’s phone via Bluetooth.

Ford has expanded Sync’s vocabulary from three to 19 languages and has rolled Sync out globally. The new languages will debut first in Europe in 2012 with the Focus. Sync is still powered by Nuance and the update allows compatibility with more languages than any other system in the world.

Sync can recognize 10,000 voice commands in any of the 19 supported languages and promises to cope with accents, vocabulary, and local dialects. The current system can have issues with accents at times. Abbreviations for text messaging are also now understood by the system in foreign languages.

For that price, you get easy to use tech with audio guides stored on the device to walk users thought the paring process. It will announce the incoming name or caller ID of the number and allow the user to answer or reject using their voice. You can place calls with your voice if the phone you use supports voice dialing. The device has a sensor that will connect automatically as soon as you enter the car.

Other features include full-duplex audio, superior wind and noise filtration, and a hardware power on and off switch. It has a phonebook inside that can transfer 200 contacts per device. Multipoint tech allows the device to connect to two phones at one time. It also supports A2DP streaming ands has 20 hours of talk per charge with 600 hours of standby.

The CHILL, meanwhile, is a corded headset, which can be used with both cellphones and VoIP calls; it also has in-line music controls. Finally, the Jabra SPEAK410 is a USB -powered speakerphone, as well as including music playback.

The Jabra EXTREME, Jabra EASYGO and Jabra CHILL are available now, priced at $99.99, $59.99 and $29.99 respectively. The Jabra SPEAK410 will land in Q2 2011, price tba.

Press Release:

JABRA EXPANDS PORTFOLIO OF SKYPE-CERTIFIED OFFERINGS WITH NEW PRODUCTS OPTIMIZED FOR VoIP COMMUNICATION

New Plug-and-Play Devices Offer Great Sound & Noise Cancellation;
Allow for Truly Hands-Free VoIP Communication
With Colleagues, Family and Friends

LAS VEGAS, NV – January 6, 2010 –Jabra, a world leader in developing innovative hands-free solutions, today announced the expansion of its portfolio of Skype-certified products designed to offer a handsfree VoIP solution for all of life’s situations – from the dorm room to the board room. Three new products join the Jabra EXTREME – FOR PC, which launched in October 2010, to offer a complete suite of products that enable multi-tasking through a simple plug & play installation process. The introduction of these new products gives Jabra a wide portfolio of VoIP-specific products on the market, providing consumers with access to a Skype-certified headset or speakerphone for their mobile lifestyle. The new portfolio of products will be shown for the first time at the Consumer Electronics Show (CES) in Las Vegas this week.

The rapid growth of the VoIP calling industry – Skype, alone, has more than 560 million registered users worldwide – has fueled demand for better headset and speakerphone solutions with top-of-the-line sound quality and features. Jabra is stepping up to the challenge, putting a heavy emphasis on its line of VoIP-optimized products as communication trends indicate that consumers are turning to laptops, mobile devices, tablets and PCs to make more and more of their calls.

The Jabra EXTREME – FOR PC and Jabra EASYGO – FOR PC come with a pre-paired USB adapter that automatically connect to a PC and Skype software for the simplest plug and play experience to date. These multiuse products can take both Internet and mobile phone calls seamlessly and clearly. Two corded offerings, the Jabra CHILL – FOR PC and Jabra SPEAK 410 – FOR PC, ensure that Jabra has a VoIP-solution for everyone. All of Jabra’s Skype-certified products provide crystal-clear sound quality so that even long-distance callers sound as though they’re in the same room.

The new portfolio of products includes:

Jabra EXTREME – FOR PC
• The first product released from this VoIP-optimized suite makes poor quality calls a distant memory and can simultaneously be paired to both your PC and your mobile phone. Designed for the true road-warrior who refuses to sacrifice on sound quality, the headset has been described by a Skype test engineer as “the best sounding/performing Bluetooth headset my team has put through our test laboratories.” (Best Buy, MSRP: $99.99)
Jabra EASYGO – FOR PC
• Offers great value for the money and provides the perfect hands-free solution for a student studying abroad that plans on using Skype to keep in touch with family and friends or a recent grad who is entering the workforce in a new city or country. The EASYGO – FOR PC is a lightweight, stylish headset that can handle all of the needs of an entry-level Bluetooth user. The EASYGO – FOR PC can simultaneously be paired to both your PC and your mobile phone. (MSRP: $59.99)

Jabra CHILL – FOR PC
• This corded option is perfect for those who are not quite ready to go completely wireless. Compatible with both mobile phones and VoIP calls, the CHILL – FOR PC comes equipped with a high-quality microphone and music control function, leaving all other corded headphones in the dust. (MSRP: $29.99)

Jabra SPEAK410 – FOR PC
• This USB-powered speakerphone brings the convenience of instant speakerphone calls anywhere using Skype. The SPEAK410 – FOR PC is a plug & play voice-conferencing solution that requires no additional set-up and comes with a mobile carrying case, allowing users to set up a mobile conference room in a matter of seconds. The product also features music playback capabilities so users can enjoy their favorite tunes while waiting for a VoIP conference call to begin. (Launching in Q2 2011)

For more information on Jabra’s suite of Skype-certified VoIP products visit BuyJabra.com/US, http://shop.skype.com/headsets/ or follow us on Twitter at http://twitter.com/jabra_us.

Ford has announced a new update for Sync that is being offered first to 2011 Ford Fiesta owners. The new update adds AppLink to allow the driver to control some smartphone apps on Android devices, Blackberry smartphones, and the iPhone. The first apps that will support AppLink include Pandora, Stitcher, and OpenBeak.

You have to log in at Syncmyride to download the update to a flash drive and then use the USB port in the car to apply the update. Once applied the driver can hit the voice button in the car, say “Mobile Applications” and then the name of the app like “Pandora.” With Pandora, the user can then say “Play station classic rock radio” and you can bookmark songs and rate them with thumbs up or thumbs down all using your voice. The update is available free right now.

Via Android Community

The Sunrise isn’t your typical bar style headset, it’s a headset that is a round disc that reminds me more than a little of a hockey puck. The device comes in black or maroon colors and is designed for comfort and style. The headset has a soft and flexible molded rubber ear clip and it ships with ear clips for the right and left side of the head.

The outer pad that sits against the ear is made out of a soft material as well. The round design is supposed to balance well on the ear making for more comfortable wear. The device comes with a desk dock for charging and a DC adapter for the car power port that can charge the headset while you drive is available. The Sunrise is on Amazon right now for $79.99 and the car charger dock is a $29.99 option.

Thanks to the MultiPoint support, you can pair the MM03i handset with not only the iPhone but another Bluetooth-enabled device – such as your laptop – simultaneously, using it for regular and Skype calls, for instance. The base also has a 3.5mm audio output, for plugging in a speaker system.

The handset itself promises 6hrs of talktime or 120hrs of standby, and while there are dedicated call answer/end and volume buttons, it’ll also automatically answer an incoming call if you pick it up off the dock. It’ll go on sale for the not-inconsiderable price of £115 ($181) in December.

Press Release:

Native Union launches MM03i, a Moshi Moshi MM03 with integrated iPhone cradle and charger

London, UK, 25th November 2010 — Native Union, creator of the Moshi Moshi range of mobile phone enhancing handsets, has today launched the second iteration of the MM03, a Bluetooth enabled handset now with an integrated charging and sync cradle dedicated to the iPhone – MM03i. Designed by award-winning designer David Turpin the MM03i is a slimline, stylish, sophisticated handset, which has been specifically manufactured with the iPhone user in mind.

Available as a set, including handset and weighted base unit with iPhone charge and synch functionality, the MM03i is finished either in white gloss or black high gloss to match the iPhone. Fitted with the advanced Bluetooth 2.1 chipset, this handset has a dual pairing function that will automatically pair with both the computer and the mobile phone. Skype calls and mobile calls are possible with the same handset. The 2.1 Bluetooth wireless chip also makes pairing very easy when the devices are in range of the MM03i so no fiddly pairing procedure is required.

In addition to practical benefits, the MM03i also delivers a compelling health benefit to consumers when used as a telephone handset by dramatically reducing exposure to the radiation emitted by mobile devices, which is linked to an increased risk of cancer. Medical research indicates that heavy, direct-to-ear mobile phone usage can potentially cause health damage and Native Union has addressed these concerns, by reducing mobile phone radiation from mobile phones through the use of its speakers and handsets. Independent testing by TUV, the world’s leading certification company, found that the Moshi Moshi 03 reduces radiation by 97 percent.

The MM03i boasts the following features:
· Using a MM03i reduces up to 97% of the radiation absorbed compared to direct use of your mobile phone
· Bluetooth V2.1 + EDR
· Bluetooth Multi-point – allowing simultaneous Bluetooth connections to two devices (i.e. mobile phone and wireless computer)
· Expands the talking areas at home by allowing you to place your mobile phone at the location where you have the strongest signal while using the MM03i as a handset mobile
· Talk-time 6h/ Standby time 120h
· Call answering by direct pick-up of handset from base
· Pick-up/hang-up buttons and volume buttons
· Dedicated iPhone charge and synch cradle with 3.5mm audio out to plug a speaker system
· Noise reduction system
· Can be paired with a Bluetooth wireless computer
· Connection status visual indicator
· Patented design

Compatibility
MM03i is compatible with all iPhones including 4. MM03i can also pair with most other mobile phones and PCs with Bluetooth compatability.

Availability
The MM03i costs £115.00 RRP (inc VAT) and is available 25th of November 2010 onwards from www.nativeunion.com.

The Major headphones come with a 6.3mm adapter and a 1m extension cable, and are constructed from the same vinyl used in Marshall amplifiers complete with the “original Marshall texture.” They’re priced at $99/€99 and available now.

Meanwhile the Minor earphones come with a regular stereo adapter – for use with non-handsfree devices – a cable clip and four different sizes of earbud. They’re $59/€59 but currently sold-out.

Riyahi offers some insights on Parrot’s FC6100 module that uses the Android OS to integrate numerous software libraries for various functions into the vehicle system. The module does the things we expect of hands free systems in cars today like allow for Bluetooth calls, voice control, and hands free features. The module will also offer some very cool integration with Android apps.

The Android framework will allow the driver and passengers to integrate the cars system with apps from the Android Market. That would mean a driver could download apps for things like speed camera databases, navigation, media management and just about anything else you can think of and use them in the car. The FC6100 will also share a 3G mobile connection amongst passengers in the car using WiFi. There is no word on when the FC6100 will hit the market or in what vehicles it will be used.

Via Android Community

Other than this really strange looking photo, there isn’t much in the way of details on the device offered up by the maker. The thing is set to be unveiled at CTIA 2010 starting this month. What we do know is that the bracelet is Bluetooth and connects to your phone.

That little black nub pulls out and you hold it between your fingers to hear the call. I would assume that the bracelet has a mic built-in to pic up voices when in use. We also know that the product looks weird and most of us will make fun of you for using one.

The Thinksound packaging isn’t quite as bright and glossy as that of rivals, but that’s down to the recycled cardboard and bleach-free materials. There’s no inner plastic liner, either, and the cables – which are PVC free – are tied up with string rather than metal ties. Even the carrying pouch is made from cotton sourced from renewable plantations. The ts02+ mic earbuds themselves are made from real wood, which Thinksound says also brings natural resonance and improved acoustics.

You’d hope there’d be some strong audio, too, given the founders of Thinksound met while working at Tivoli. The ts02+ mic headphones use 8mm drivers enclosed in either “silver cherry” or “black chocolate” wooden housings, with a 20Hz to 20kHz response range and a gold-plated 3.5mm plug. Midway down the cable is a basic one-button microphone/remote unit, which will work with your iPhone, iPad, BlackBerry and “most” other smartphones, according to Thinksound; we didn’t have any trouble answering and ending calls on the handful of devices we tested it with, and you can play/pause and skip tracks on compatible devices.

Build quality feels decent, with the wood nicely finished. Four different earbud sizes are included – all the same basic shape, rather than any of the double-flange tips we’ve seen on other brands – together with a cable clip to keep the cord from flying around. They’re lightweight and comfortable, and the sound is reasonable if nothing outstanding. Trebles and mids are nicely defined and vocals are sharp, but there’s a noticeable lack of bass which can leave dance, R&B or electronic music feeling less than rounded. We prefer some more thump in the low-end, though the ts02+ mic are well suited to vocal or jazz which is less bass heavy.

It’s certainly not bad, but then again there’s a whole lot of competition in the $99 bracket. We’re partial to Sleek Audio’s SA1 headphones, which come in at $79.99, also have wooden housings but throw in detachable earphone cables and a user-adjustable audio tuning system. Still, the SA1′s don’t have the Thinksound’s in-line microphone.

There’s a lot to be said for making environmentally conscious decisions with your gadget purchases, and happily opting for the Thinksound ts02+ mic headphones isn’t the audio equivalent of wearing a hair-shirt. If being Earth-friendly, having decent sound and hands-free functionality are equally weighted, they come recommended; still, those looking for superlative audio performance at the expense of the other categories might find more for their money elsewhere.

The two devices are optimized for professional installers and support a number of different handsets. Novero claims that the devices offer installers the same performance as line-fit systems in cars that come from the factory with hands free already installed.

The kits both feature voice dialing, voice-controlled SMS messaging and email with compatible handsets. The audio is sent through the cars speakers and the devices have echo cancellation, noise reduction, and adjustable mics. TheTrulyOne sells for $159, TheTrustyOne sells for $119, and both are available right now.

The TomTom navigation application does not require the Car Kit accessory, but with it users of iPhone 3G and 3GS can see boosted GPS signal together with using their phone hands-free.  It also has an integrated charger, which both rejuices the iPhone and powers the Car Kit’s GPS/speaker.

TomTom are saying they have no “public announcements” about whether they’ll be releasing a version of the Car Kit app that’s compatible with the iPod touch or first-gen iPhone.  The Car Kit itself is priced at $119.95 and expected to ship in 2-3 weeks according to Apple’s online store.

Behind the slabbish facade lies a 4 x 40W amplifier, FM and AM radios (with RDS), a TMC traffic status receiver and the ability to connect up to your car’s existing steering wheel controls.  The PND functionality includes just about everything you might expect from a high-end TomTom system, so you get mapping of Western Europe, safety alerts for traffic cameras, Map Share for updated topography, hands-free calling (though it’s unclear whether Bluetooth is integrated) and enhanced positioning so the GO I-90 can track your location even in GPS blackspots such as tunnels.

There’s also a USB port, for hooking up an iPod or other MP3 player, and text-to-speech for directions and road names.  Once you’re at your destination you can pop out the touchscreen section and continue to use it as a standalone PND.  The TomTom GO I-90 will arrive in Europe come December, priced at €499 ($747) excluding installation costs.

Press Release:

TomTom Unveils Integrated Navigation Infotainment Solution

~ TomTom GO I-90 Double DIN Solution Brings Integrated Navigation to All Cars ~

AMSTERDAM–(BUSINESS WIRE)–The TomTom (AEX:TOM2) GO I-90 doesn’t stop at navigation – it’s a double DIN navigation and radio solution, integrating world-class navigation and in-car infotainment for all types of cars.

Traditionally, integrated navigation solutions come pre-fitted in new cars. This leaves little opportunity for those who want integrated navigation, but don’t intend to buy a new car.

The all-in-one TomTom GO I-90 solution can be fitted into any car, so even those with older car models can have an integrated navigation experience. It also offers consumers all the advantages of easy-to-use portable navigation, yet fits seamlessly into a vehicle dashboard. The device provides full radio integration with the car speakers for high quality audio when using spoken instructions, or making hands-free phone calls. Although the full solution is integrated, the navigation device is totally portable so it can be removed from where it sits in the audio system to be used in other cars*.

“We are proud to further expand the footprint of our automotive products, using our experience in the embedded market to deliver the products people want, through various channels,” said Giles Shrimpton, TomTom’s Managing Director AUTO. “This is another example of TomTom’s strategy to deliver a high quality navigation solution to users; however they want to use it.”

Well-known TomTom features are included for a premium navigation experience. Such as TomTom Map Share™ — allowing users to make instant changes to the map and share these with others through TomTom HOME and Safety Alerts — enabling drivers to save on speeding tickets and drive safer. Drivers can also easily update their device and their map, which is a unique feature among traditional integrated navigation solutions.

The device, which comes with maps of Western Europe pre-installed, also has hands-free calling, so drivers can make calls safely while driving.

Availability

The device will be available to buy through ‘12V’ specialist retailers throughout Europe from December 2009.

The device will cost Є599 (excluding installation cost)**. TomTom recommends the system be installed by a professional dealer.

Notes for editors

Among its many features, the new GO I-90 boasts the following:

Pre-installed map of Western Europe***.
TomTom Map Share™ technology – so drivers get daily map changes from the TomTom community.
TomTom Safety Alerts, including safety cameras.
Enhanced Positioning Technology – for uninterrupted navigation, even in tunnels.
Improved hands-free calling – so drivers can make and answer phone calls safely while driving.
Help-Me! emergency menu – local information to get help quickly.
Optional iPod support – optimal support for iPod playback and iPod charging.
Extensive phone compatibility.
Optimised TMC reception through the car’s antenna.
Latest map guarantee.
TomTom HOME desktop software for everything a driver needs to keep the device up to date.
Address speech recognition and text-to-speech.
USB connection for MP3/I-pod.
Radio features

Amplifier (4 x 40 WATT).
FM reception.
RDS support for PS, AF, TA.
AM reception (LW and MW).
Built in TMC receiver.
Ready for steering wheel control (3rd party accessory).
Connectors to car and outside world (GPS, USB, iPod).
2 DIN box.
No CD drive.
- END –

* Best used with dedicated travel kit which can be found on www.tomtom.com

** Non-euro pricing will be unveiled shortly

*** Andorra, Austria, Belgium, Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, Gibraltar, Ireland, Italy, Liechtenstein, Luxemburg, Monaco, Netherlands, Norway, Portugal, San Marino, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, United Kingdom and Vatican City

The Cruiser clips to the visor of your car and uses dual mics to pick up your voice and cancel extraneous sounds like road noise. Another cool feature is that the device will announce who is calling you from your phone book if your phone supports the feature.

The Cruiser supports Bluetooth 2.1 A2DP and AVRCP for streaming music through the speaker. The device makes voice announcements for caller ID and pairing. A FM transmitter is built in as well to send audio to your car stereo. Two mobile phones can be connected at the same time and talk time is up to 14 hours with standby time of up to 13 days. A car charger is included with the device. The device will first hit Asia at about $129. Availability in the US isn’t available at this time.

Nectar is offering its new BlueClip Retractable and BlueClip Necklace headset holders. Both the devices have a loop that securely holds your Bluetooth headset keeping it nearby so you don’t have to take your eyes off the road to put the headset on.

The retractable clip is like those things the maintenance man at school uses for that massive keying he carries. The necklace is self-explanatory. Both devices come in different colors and range in price from $14.99 up to $159.99 for a necklace with crystals on it.

That means you can use the X735 with either the supplied headphones or your own; there’s also a microphone built into the clip, for use on calls, and the volume rocker can also skip tracks.  The display, meanwhile, shows caller ID together with guiding you through Bluetooth pairing, and can have its orientation flipped depending on which way round you choose to clip it.  The battery is good for up to 7hrs talktime, 6hrs of media streaming or 150hrs standby.

As for the Nitrox X835, that’s a larger device intended to be used not only in the car but as an impromptu speakerphone.  It too has an OLED display for caller ID and the like, together with a large multi-function button, side-mounted volume controls and a hold switch for use when transporting it between car and office.  Nitrox supply a detachable metal clip to attach the X835 to your sun visor, and there’s not only an accelerometer that flips the display depending on which way around the device is being used, but vibration sensors that can automatically power it up and begin the re-pairing process when it feels the car’s engine has started.

Like the X735, the X835 supports the Bluetooth A2DP stereo profile, though it only has a mono speaker.  What it adds, though, is DSP and noise-reduction, using a three-microphone array.  The battery is good for up to 15hrs talktime or 400hrs standby, and like the X735 recharges via a mini USB connection.

In our brief hands-on with the pair, both seemed well put together and sturdy, and sound quality from the X735 was surprisingly good even through the standard earphones.  As is often the case, the OLED displays were bright and clear, and made setting up connections straightforward.  We’ll be spending more time getting to know both devices when our review units arrive.

The hands free device is called the Guidepoint Connect. It serves the hands free Bluetooth functions you expect and has some other built in features. The device can be fitted with an optional GPS tracker to provide location information to EMS in the even t of an accident and it can be used to find a stolen vehicle.

The only real catch to the EMS part of the device is that it can’t dial automatically in the event of an accident; the driver has to activate the EMS function by pressing a button on the device. The system is designed to be mounted on the steering column and will be sold through electronics installers and new car dealers for $399 plus installation fees. E-Call service is included with the device and a year of Guidepoint Silver service is included as well.