Design

If the old Mazda6 was a generic sedan sketched out by a child’s hand, the new model is a riot of detailing. Up front, the grille has grown once more, pushing forward and deepening to give the car an aggressive, searching snout that’s picked out with slips of chrome. The almond lights of the second-gen car have become tauter, more like snake’s eyes, with daytime running lights running in crisp LED sweeps under the halogens.

That Kodo wing, as Mazda calls it, bracketing the underside of the grille and leading into the lights, begins the haunch-line of the car, which starts with muscular wheel arches at the front and then slides into a twin-creased side line that ends at the slightly tapered rear. As the first of those creases dips into the rear door, the shoulder line rises to notch away the side glass, the rear windows of which are smoked as standard on all but the entry-level cars.

Finally, there’s another chrome whisker across the trunk, with the rear light clusters deeply set into the bodywork, and an integral lip-spoiler in the lid. It looks particularly good from the front or rear three-quarters, where Mazda’s sweeping movement lines along the sides have a touch of the Infiniti or Jaguar about them. Although the effect is most impressive on the four-door, Mazda’s 5-door load-carrier, the Mazda6 Tourer manages to look distinctive too, pulling the rear side glass out to end in a crease of chrome trim, while the falling roof line and angled back glass make for a car that’s still sporty in appearance, albeit sacrificing a little internal space in the process.

Mazda fits 17-inch alloy wheels as standard, though the Sport model – as we had on test – gets 19-inch versions with twisted spokes. Similarly there are front fogs standard across the range, part of an ambitious package of no-cost perks that belie the sticker price. The daytime running lights are standard, as are the halogens and heated door mirrors; our Sport model threw in bi-Xenon headlights and power mirrors, among other things.

Engines and Performance

Four engines are on offer in the UK, split between petrol and diesel, with a choice of 6-speed manual or auto transmissions. The entry-level Mazda6 SE has a choice of 2.0l 145ps petrol or 2.2l 150ps diesel, both manual; if you want the auto box options on those you need to step up to the SE-L. At the top is the Mazda6 Sport, with a choice of four combinations: either the 2.0l 165ps manual, the 2.2l 150ps diesel manual, the 2.2l 175ps diesel manual, or the 2.2l 175ps diesel automatic.

The US, however, only gets a single engine option: a 2.5l 184HP petrol offered with either the 6-speed manual or automatic gearboxes. The manual is rated for 25mpg (US) in the city or 37mpg (US) on the highway; the auto transmission bumps both of those by a point. Only the Sport sedan is offered of the four-doors, though there’s also the Touring and the Grand Touring (the latter adding in some extras as standard); since we tested a UK car, we haven’t tried the US-specific engine.

As you might expect, the 2.0l 165ps petrol manual in the Sport version is the most instantly aggressive. Mazda quotes a 9.1s 0-62mph time and a top speed of 134mph, and though the car is among the largest in its class – 4.87m long and 1.84m wide for the four-door – there’s more high-tensile steel and other lightweight materials used inside to keep the heft down.

Mazda calls all this fettling SKYACTIV, launching it in the CX-5 SUV, and indeed the Mazda6 builds on the same MacPherson struts and multilink rear suspension, putting its power down through the front wheels. It’s not an MX-5, certainly, but neither does it wallow or slump around corners, and even in the Tourer model it’s possible to forget there are three seats and a decent scale load area behind you as you tackle corners with alacrity.

It’s the diesel engines that suit the car most, however, the 2.2l 175ps manual we spent most time with pitching its mid-range torque right into the sweet spot for overtaking at speed in fifth gear, as well as dawdling through city traffic in fourth. While diesels may traditionally lack some of the upfront verve of their gas counterparts, in actual fact the 2.2l in the Mazda6 shaves the 0-62mph dash down to just 7.9s. Even the under-tuned 150ps version does it 0.1s faster than the slightly more powerful petrol plant. In practice, of course, this is a sizable car intended for more sensible use, but it’s hard not to be impressed by the degree of enthusiasm the big Mazda can muster.

One thing you won’t find on the options sheet is a hybrid powerplant. Mazda tells us it still isn’t convinced that big batteries and electric motors are the way forward for eco-friendly cars, looking instead to engine refinement with a few tech sprinkles to keep things competitive. So, the big diesel is rated for up to 62mpg (Euro) combined – we saw a consistent 44mpg (Euro) in mixed driving from the manual version, topping out in the mid-50s on extended trips – with 119 g/km of CO2 emissions. The top-spec petrol version is more thirsty, with a quoted 47.9mpg (Euro) combined consumption and 135 g/km CO2. Opt for the smallest diesel, though, and you can trim CO2 output to an impressively meager 108 g/km.

Even though Mazda has bypassed big batteries, that’s not to say there aren’t some small ones inside the Mazda6. i-ELOOP addresses an issue most drivers probably don’t even realize is there: the cost on engine power required to drive all a car’s electronics. The audio system, HVAC, power steering and such are usually run off an alternator clamped to the engine, sapping anything up to 10-percent of its output; with i-ELOOP, the same regenerative braking principles hybrids use to convert shedding speed to battery power is turned, in the Mazda6, into a temporary source for the car’s electronics.

It’s actually a big capacitor, not a battery, but in practice it’s basically transparent to the driver (unless you cycle through to the relevant graphic in the instrument binnacle). As you decelerate, the i-ELOOP system is charged up; it can then run the electrics for around a minute, good for what Mazda claims is around a 10-percent boost in fuel economy overall. It works in hand with Mazda’s i-stop automatic engine shut-down, which temporarily cuts off the engine while you’re paused in traffic, but keeps the music playing and the climate control blowing without draining your regular battery.

Interior

Mazda’s track record in making sports car interiors puts the driver in the right place in the Mazda6, particularly in the leather-clad environs of the Sport model (SE and SE-L make do with cloth seats as standard), though it’s not the most imaginative dashboard we’ve sat behind. The sat-nav touchscreen sits on top of the HVAC controls, the stack broken up with a swathe line – thankfully not fake wood – studded with vents, and all the controls feel sturdy and resilient, but there’s not much in the way of excitement or superlative-design to be found.

The murky, underwhelming clock and HVAC display of the CX-5 has been spruced up some for the Mazda6, and we can’t argue with the tactile knobs and buttons. Similarly, the wheel is nicely sized (and leather-wrapped across the range) with Mazda sensibly deciding not to follow rivals and scattershot it with buttons and shortcuts. Instead, you get cruise control on the right and A/V on the left, along with a voice-command button we’ll cover in the next section.

There are plenty of storage nooks, including a deep center armrest up front and sizable door pockets, while in the back there’s room for three adults. Despite the sweeping roofline there’s plenty of headroom, too, the seats being slung low enough to accommodate those six feet tall in comfort. The stylishly rising waistline – along with the tinted windows of the Sport variant – can make things a little difficult to see out of for younger passengers, however. Still, the contoured seats do a good job of holding people in place, even if the driver is getting a little carried away with the SKYACTIV handling, and though firm with the Sports suspension, the ride front and back is not uncomfortable even on longer road-trips.

Those trips can be accompanied by a reasonable amount of luggage, too, thanks to a capacious rear. Seats up – they split 60/40, and can only be dropped down from inside the trunk for security reasons – there are 483l to play with, versus 506l in the Tourer (which expands to 1,632l when both the Tourer’s seats are down). The opening itself is wide and relatively low, though can conveniently be opened from the key.

Technology

Mazda is keen to position itself as a tech-first company, and so the Mazda6 comes with most of the options boxes ticked, particularly if you specify the SE-L or Sport variants. Across the range you get cruise control; electric windows all round; a 5.8-inch color touchscreen atop a radio/single-slot CD player; Bluetooth for hands-free and streaming; both an aux-in and USB input for audio, hidden in the central armrest; and air-conditioning.

Our Sport tester, however, cranks that up even further, with dual-zone climate control and keyless entry; parking sensors front and rear, along with a reversing camera; rain-sensing wipers and an auto-dimming rear mirror; power adjustment and three-stage heating for the front seats (with two memory positions for the driver’s side); and a Bose surround sound audio system with a total of eleven speakers and dynamic noise compensation using a microphone hidden in the cabin.

That’s a fair amount of gadgetry, and there are a few different ways to control it, some it has to be said better than others. As well as the touchscreen sat on top of the dashboard – which has a few knobs and buttons around it, for jumping into navigation, audio, and phone, and controlling volume and tuning, there’s a multifunction dial next to the parking brake which along with rotating can be pushed in four directions and pressed in to select. That’s surrounded by another cluster of shortcut buttons – again, for audio, phone, navigation, and setup, as well as two back-keys – in the hope that you’ll not reach out and tap at the touchscreen when driving.

Mazda6 Technology Review:

For the basics, like adjusting volume or whipping through radio channels, the dial works well, but things get a little more complex if you try to do everything with it. What would normally require you to simply stab at the screen to change or select can demand some adroit maneuvering with the dial, to make sure you’re first highlighting the right section and only then scrolling through it.

It’s worth taking the time to get familiar with it, though, as there’s plenty you can do with the Mazda’s standard-fit entertainment system. The radio supports the usual presets and digital tuning, but we spent most time using Bluetooth to stream from our smartphone: both local tracks and streaming services like Spotify worked perfectly, and we were able to control playback using the Mazda6′s steering wheel mounted controls along with see artist, track, and album information on the display, together with phone battery status.

USB and aux-in playback works much in the same way, and there’s a thoughtful notch cut out for you to snake a cable out of the center armrest so you can use the device while still having somewhere to rest your elbow. Up to seven Bluetooth device pairings can be stored, with multipoint for having more than one active simultaneously, and the Mazda6 automatically resumes Spotify playback when you bring your phone back into the car, and pauses/resumes either side of a call.

The Bose speaker system holds up to scrutiny too, filling the car with loud, clear audio that sounds fantastic. Bose includes its optional center-point audio processing, which adjusts the various speaker settings to remove some of the directionality of the music and make it sound harmonious no matter where you’re speaking (rather than, say, louder from whichever speaker you’re closest to). It’s better suited to some musical types than others, we have to say; classical and pop benefited, with a more even quality to the audio, but rap and R’n'B lost some of their punchiness. Luckily it’s easy to switch on and off in the settings.

In the phone page, you can optionally download your phonebook to the car’s internal storage, for easier dialing of contacts, and set a number of speed dial favorites. However, the Mazda6 can also suck out your phone’s text messages, reading them out to you so that you needn’t take your hands of the wheel or your eyes off the road. We had no problems being heard on calls, even competing with 70mph road noise.

Unfortunately, the same speech clarity can’t be said for the voice control system. For the basics, hitting the button on the steering wheel and asking for a phone number works as you’d expect, but when you factor in the optional TomTom-powered navigation system, it becomes more frustrating. In theory, drivers should be able to say an address and have a list of search results shown on-screen, from which they can select by calling out the list number of the right option. In practice, most of the time we struggled to get the system to recognize the address we intended and, coupled with the lengthy pauses before search results were returned, we generally resorted to manually searching using the on-screen keyboard.

It’s a shame, because the TomTom system itself works well. If you’re familiar with one of the company’s standalone PNDs then the interface in the Mazda6 should present few surprises, with comprehensive mapping data, live traffic updates, automatic re-routing based on hold-ups further along your journey, and a huge database of points-of-interest. A range of voices and on-screen icons are available for guidance, with instructions cutting into music playback as the track temporarily fades in volume.

Pricing

In the UK, the Mazda6 kicks off at £19,595 for the SE saloon with the 2.0l petrol engine, or £21,795 for the 2.2l diesel. The cheapest Tourer is the £22,545 SE 2.2l diesel. The 2.2l diesel Sport saloon we spent most time with begins at £25,495; you’ll pay a £1,200 premium for the auto gearbox.

As for the US version, the Sport sedan begins at $20,880 (pre-destination charges and other fees), while the Touring is from $24,495. The Grand Touring – which makes the Bose audio system, TomTom navigation, keyless entry, and other features usually part of the Touring “Technology Package” standard – begins at $29,495.

That makes the Mazda6 a little more expensive out of the gate than, say, a Ford Mondeo, but it also comes with a higher degree of standard specifications.

Wrap-Up

The old Mazda6 was, not to put too fine a point on it, forgettable. Seats and an engine in a box on some wheels. That the new Mazda6 surges off the forecourt with such eye-catching styling and on-road polish makes it a huge advance, and it’s one that in most areas punches above its price.

Curvaceous, swooping design makes the car distinctive and handsome, a welcome diversion from the Germanic crispness that seems to have proliferated among Volkswagen, GM, Ford and others. Only the somewhat frustrating usability of the in-cabin tech and the slightly less-than-gaping luggage opening (unless you opt for the Tourer) mar the experience. Meanwhile the driving experience is enough to make you forget you’re in a not-insubstantial four-door; we’d opt for the diesel engine and manual gearbox, if given the choice, which pairs decent economy with solid performance to match the capable chassis.

Both watches work with TomTom’s own Graphical Training Partner. This system allos you to see at-a-glance statistics based around your physical activity – these three bits make up the full nelson for the future of wrist-based sports excellence!

• Race: Race against a personal best or most recent run. Quickly track performance with real-time graphics, to continue to improve run-after-run.

• Goal: Set a distance, time or calorie goal and see progress toward that goal with simple, full-screen graphics and alerts.

• Zone: Set a target for pace or heart-rate (with optional heart-rate monitor) and track progress in a simple full-screen graph throughout a workout.

Both of these watches will be bringing on the heat with a hardware build that’s not to be missed! Both watches come in at 11.5mm thin and are both waterproof and weatherproof – waterproof up to 50 meters/5ATM, that is! You’ll be using a “super-touch display” as well with both scratch and impact-resistant reinforced glass to keep your precious watch safe and fully readable.

You’ll be able to connect with the TomTom MySports website, MapMyFitness, RunKeeper, TrainingPaks, and of course: MyFitnessPal. You’ll be connecting with Bluetooth to keep your Smart Heart Rate Monitor’s data in-tune with your watches’ understanding of your body, the watch works with QuickGPSFix with both GPS and GLONASS satellite technology for a precise location every time, and you’ve got indoor tracking capabilities as well!

These two watches are extremely similar to one another, but the main bits are there for both – the one-button simple design, the lovely large display, and the release: Summer of 2013! Keep your eye on the TomTom tag portal here on SlashGear to hear more about these watches as they come closer to release time!

BONUS: You’ll also see a Dedicated Bike Mount, Cadence Sensor, Built-in Altimeter, and Swimming Motion Sensor coming out for these watches in the future too! Stay tuned!

TomTom has survived the rise of the smartphone and the tablet for a reason – they continue to create GPS-centric devices that work extremely well. They also provide data to smartphone apps galore, including their own TomTom apps, but that’s neither here nor there. What we’re looking at today is the launch of the TomTom Go with more than one way to stay connected.

You’ve got the ability to work with TomTom Traffic for always-on real-time traffic information as you drive. You’ve also got the ability to connect via Bluetooth to your smartphone to see TomTom traffic. You’ll be working with Lifetime connectivity to services from TomTom with the following restrictions:

“Lifetime is the useful life of the device, so means the period of time that TomTom continues to support your device with software updates, services, content or accessories. A device will have reached the end of its life when none of these are available any more.” – TomTom

You’ll also be working with 3D maps so you can identify the buildings around you by their general size. You’ll have Tap and Go functionality so you can quickly map your way to any location you can pinpoint with your finger. You’ll be able to pinch to zoom to get in and out of maps quick.

This isn’t the push-hard sensor screen you’re used to working with from years past. This device comes with capacitive touchscreen action – that means its as easy to touch and type with as your smartphone or tablet. Have a peek at the video above and let us know if you’re all about TomTom’s newest effort – and have a look at the timeline below for more information on TomTom in the recent past!

With real-time traffic information, the GPS device can recognize traffic jams and route drivers around them before they get stuck for hours. I think this is the best feature in many high-end GPS devices. TomTom has announced that it will be equipping coming Mercedes-Benz vehicles with its HD Traffic service.

That HD Traffic service promises accurate and up-to-date traffic information to help Mercedes drivers get to the destination more quickly and save time as well as fuel. The traffic service will be available for Mercedes customers in 12 countries within Europe starting this summer. TomTom says that the real-time traffic information will automatically be included in high-end Comand navigation system as a three-year service.

Research conducted by the German Aerospace Center in 2012 found that the TomTom traffic information is able to save commuters 50 minutes of travel time per week working out to about 40 hours per year. Having used TomTom’s real-time traffic information in the past, I can say that it does work and will frequently offer you an alternative routes to save even a few minutes on your commute.

This version of the TomTom Rider allow you to use Bluetooth to listen in on directions inside your helmet – all you’ll beed is a pair of Bluetooth-friendly earbuds. There’s a new charging bike dock with this model that turns the device on or off with the ignition on the bike you’re riding, and the display you’re working with is improved as well. This newly enhanced 4.3-inch screen is touch-friendly and biker glove-friendly – so you wont have to de-glove each time you want to tap!

The lovely scene and mini-movie you’re seeing above should encourage you to pick one of these devices up, if only because it makes you feel so flowery and friendly inside. According to Managing Director of TomTom Consumer Corinne Vigreux, the TomTom team sought out feedback from motorbike communities that they then used to create this newest-gen device. They found that “the overwhelming majority of bikers use their motorcycle for recreational purposes”, this leading the TomTom team to include features that allow the biker to find and ride “the best scenic routes in the world.”

With Tyre software you’ll be able to search and create routes on your PC at home before you head off into the wild blue yonder, uploading them to your TomTom Rider device before you head out. From there you’ll be able to share the route with fellow riders (as mentioned above) with this device’s “Upload Routes and Go” feature. You’ll be able to use this device in all types of weather without worrying about damage, and you’ve got Free Lifetime Maps with your purchase as well – updates forever, free!

All this and more are available for pre-order today for 329.99 GBP or MSRP $299 USD – get pumped up about the Summer season right this minute! Note: that’s a MASSIVE price cut compared to the 2nd Gen model of the Rider – things are looking up!

“Due to the discontinuation of the Google Local Search service, TomTom has decided to remove the feature” the company said of the update. “You can still search for locations using TomTom Places. Alternatively you can search Google in your browser and use the Copied Address feature to plan routes to these locations.”

TomTom Places is the company’s own driving-centric database of search results, bringing up POIs including gas stations, markets, restaurants, and more. It’s included in the app, along with live traffic updates and lifetime map updates.

The app is priced at $59.99 for the US and Canada version [iTunes link], while the UK and Ireland version is £39.99. TomTom recommends using iTunes to install the update, as there’s the possibility that you could lose your settings and saved locations otherwise.

Previously, the company offered black & anthracite, black & blue, black & volt, and volt & black colors. The lineup now has a white & silver version runners can choose. The watch has a highly visible backlit LCD display that shows all sorts of information to the wearer while they are running.

The available metrics the watch can show include time, average and instantaneous pace, and distance run. The GPS features of the watch that are powered by TomTom offer motivational details to help enhance the running experience, including run reminders and messages to help inspire users before and after runs. The watch allows users to collect the details during their run and then share the details back via the Nike+ community.

Wearers who don’t care for any of the colors Nike has in its standard Nike+ SportWatch line can get an exclusive color combination that is available only at Best Buy. The Best Buy exclusive version of the watch is black and red. Both the new white & silver and the black and red version are available for pre-order right now at $169 and $149 respectively.

The big issue at the moment is compatibility. TomTom has apparently built Navigation for Android to suit screen resolutions of up to WVGA; Google Play tells us that it’s incompatible with many recent, high-profile devices. If you’ve a Galaxy Nexus, Nexus 7, Galaxy S III, as well as many other tablets or phones, you won’t be able to use the app at all.

Hopefully that will change soon, as Navigation for Android looks like it ticks plenty of boxes. As well as the live traffic data, there’s support for multi-stop routing, having the most economical journey prioritized, automatic fading of music so that spoken instructions can be heard, and support for TomTom Places and POIs.

Since all of the maps are stored on your phone, not downloaded when needed, it’s a big app – the UK and Ireland data comes in at 367MB, for instance, while the US & Canada is a whopping 2.3GB – but you can turn off roaming data while traveling. TomTom promises up to four map updates per year, for the lifetime of the app.

TomTom Navigation for Android is available now, priced at $49.99 for the US & Canadian maps, £30.99 for the UK maps, and £49.99 for the full European maps.

[via Paul O'Brien]

Among the features of the new hands-free car kit for smartphones are new mounting options to make the use of the system safer and more convenient. The new smartphone kit has an adjustable grip that will fit any smartphone with or without a case or cover, and the new kit has an extendable microphone. That extendable microphone can be clipped to the sun visor for clear audio.

The new car kit can be paired to two mobile devices at the same time via Bluetooth. Voice-recognition functionality can be activated so the driver can navigate and dial their phone without taking hands off the wheel. The system has an integrated 2-watt speaker for clear voice calls and navigation instructions. The kit also promises to fast charge the phone on the go.

The dual mount mounting system of the new car kit allows the driver to mount the device to the dashboard or the windshield. When mounting to the dashboard the driver uses a self-adhesive disc that is included with the kit. The car kit also has easy to reach answer and reject buttons for voice calls. The iPhone or smartphones version of the new hands-free car kit are available for €99.95. TomTom also offers a kit for the iPhone that includes a Western Europe navigation app for €149.95.

Any changes in the immediate area, such as new speed limits, blocked roads, or different street names, can now be modified directly on the device. If the user then chooses to do so, they can send the updates to TomTom and the Map Share community so that everyone reaps the benefits for free.

Major changes such as brand new roads or roundabout placements are logged with TomTom, validated, and added to maps on a quarterly basis. The collaborative approach to creating the maps apparently helps TomTom to create “maps [that] accurately reflect reality.”

Want a preview of Map Share? Take a peek at the video below to get a better idea of what it’s all about.

Other than that, details really are scarce. TomTom put out a simple two sentence press release, saying only that the company “ has signed a global agreement with Apple for maps and related information,” and that “No further details of the agreement will be provided.” It seems that Apple doesn’t want its new partner saying too much about exactly what has been licensed.

If you missed all the excitement yesterday, Apple completely overhauled and redesigned the Maps application. Google’s services are no longer required, with 3D mapping handled by Apple’s acquisition of C3 Technologies. Turn-by-turn navigation has also made the grade, and local searches can also be performed. Everything can be controlled either manually or by using Siri, giving you a hands-free experience when driving. Make sure to check out all the details from yesterday’s WWDC right here.

NikeFuel allows users to compare their performance against that of other athletes in the same sport and share achievements with friends. Nike chose the colors of the new version of the watch to match its line of apparel and shoes. The colors include Black/anthracite, anthracite/blue glow, and high-impact volt green.

The starter version the watch is the anthracite/blue glow addition and is priced at €149. The starter version of the watch doesn’t include a Shoe Sensor, which is required for outdoor use. The other versions of the watch include the Shoe Sensor and sell for €169. The new version of the Nike+ Sportwatch is available now online and in retail stores.

“Our extended range of products will be very useful to those adding running into their exercise regime. And the new NikeFuel measurement brings added motivation, allowing people to share and compare their performance with friends in other sports,” says Corinne Vigreux, Managing Director, from TomTom.

TomTom details how open source map alternatives aren’t quite as reliable as paid offerings, saying that they have “a third less residential road coverage and 16% less basic map attributes such as street names.” Not only that, but maps are vulnerable to attack, with TomTom citing the case where Google contractors were found to tamper with OpenStreetMap data. The company goes on to say that such errors in maps are potentially dangerous for drivers, especially when it comes to one-way streets.

The community, meanwhile, isn’t swayed by any of the arguments. One user has taken to a blog to scrutinize TomTom’s claims, saying that the company’s citation of “100,000 individual attacks” is “plain wrong”, detailing that only a couple of dozen of hits were considered to be malicious, promptly fixed by the OpenStreetMap community.

In regards to map coverage, it’s true that OpenStreetMap doesn’t quite have the far reaching coverage expected from a professional service, but the writer notes that the mapping project is growing every day and that TomTom has stretched the truth somewhat to support its claims. Head on over to both websites if you want to read both sides of the argument.

[via Slashdot]

What’s the rub? ALK, the company behind CoPilot, is taking the freemium approach. The initial download is free, and you’ll be able to download one country’s maps gratis. While you’ll be able to map out journeys, live traffic updates and turn-by-turn navigation will cost you £9.99 (~$16) and £19.99 (~$32) respectively.

It might not be a crucial blow against Google, who provides all of the above for absolutely nothing, but it’s an interesting proposition for iPhone users. TomTom offers its mapping service for iOS, but the costs are expensive. The UK version costs £49.99 (~$80.51), with Europe, US, and other maps adding even more on top. TomTom don’t seem to offer a proper app for Android either.

ALK’s gambit could potentially pay off. It’s the same approach that games use after all, enticing you with free gameplay then charging you in-app for extra items or upgrades. Having said that, we are talking about maps and navigation, not quite as excited or offering the same appeal. Only time will tell if this model will work out for the mapping company.

[via Electric Pig]

Other apps like BlackBerry Maps and BlackBerry Locate will also make use of TomTom’s maps, with third party developers leveraging access to include the maps in their own apps. Nuno Campos, Vice President of Sales and Marketing for TomTom Licensing, says: “TomTom’s market-leading real-time traffic information will provide BlackBerry customers with the best mobile travel experience.”

RIM seems pleased with the deal too: “”We’re thrilled to work with TomTom to leverage their industry-leading traffic and travel content for BlackBerry Traffic and BlackBerry Maps, and to enable access to those capabilities for BlackBerry developers as well.” There’s no word on exactly when the change will be rolling out, but we expect it will be a free update for BlackBerry users, which is never a bad thing.

TomTom apologized for the glitch today, which it attributed to a leap year bug in the GPS receiver software from a third-party supplier. Customers from the UK, Australia, Denmark, and Switzerland were among the first to experience the glitch. Most users were unable to receive any GPS signal, while other had intermittent access.

The company hasn’t directly specified which sat-nav units have been affected, but instructions for the software update have been posted for the Start 20/25, Via 110/120/125, the Via Live 120/125, the Go Live 820/825, and the Go Live 1000/1005/1005 World. You can check out the support page here.

Customers with units from the UK, Australia, Denmark, and Switzerland have experienced the bug first hand. Apparently the unit displays a gray screen and says that its unable to to find a GPS signal. The problem can be temporarily resolved by rebooting the unit, but it is a persistent issue: TomTom will need to issue a software update to completely eradicate the bug.

The bug first emerged on March 31st, with users quickly taking to the TomTom forums to report the issue. Most are unable to get any kind of GPS signal, while others seem to have intermittent access. As of writing, the thread has 374 posts filled with complaints and bug reports.

TomTom say that a software update will be rolled out via its website when the bug has been squashed. Users are encouraged to sign up to be notified when it becomes available.

[via BBC]

So here’s how it works. If you want to sign up for the plan, you’ll receive a TomTom Pro 3100 unit for free, with specialized software that determines when you might make a maneuver that is deemed risky. For example, it’ll notice when you’re going too fast or if you take turns too sharply. But that’s not all. You’ll also have to have a device installed to your car itself which tracks more detailed driving info.

There are benefits to this intrusion. Of course, you get a free GPS. And also, if you are in fact a really good driver, it will recognize that. You’ll be eligible for a discount instead of being grouped into the other people who happen to be the same age and have the same kind of car as you. It’s an interesting step, and one that the bigger insurance players are no doubt very hesitant to try. But it could be a sign of things to come.

[via DigitalTrends]

Then again, these vanity voice skins don’t come cheap. Each character or celebrity costs $12.95. In addition, if you opt for a custom voice, the GPS will not speak the names of the individual streets. So while the default computerized voice can tell you, “Turn left on 5th Avenue,” Marge Simpson only has the ability to tell you to “turn left.” Not all TomTom units have the ability to generate spoken street names, though.

So in case you haven’t been keeping up to date with all the celebrity GPS news, some of TomTom’s other downloadable voice packages include James Bond, Kim Cattrall, KITT from Knight Rider, SpongeBob, a slew of characters from Star Wars, Bugs Bunny, Yosemite Sam, Dora the Explorer, Snoop Dogg, Burt Reynolds, and Dennis Hopper. Forget about anything you see on the big screen – that’s an all-star cast.

[via Cnet]

The app also integrates with twitter as well so you can navigate to the places your twitter pals are. Those that already own the app, the update will be offered at no cost. Drivers will also be able to share their destination and arrival time via Twitter, Facebook, email, and text message.

The update will land in Q1 2012. It will also have updated maps, Map Share update capability, the ability to route you quickly through traffic, and offers alerts for speed cameras. It will also integrate with contacts, photos, music, and email.

The TomTom GO LIVE Top Gear edition features Top Gear-themed start-up and shut-down screens and car icons. You can use the device in silent mode by selecting The Stig mode, or you can choose to have Top Gear host Jeremy Clarkson’s voice guide you throughout your journey. This limited edition also features more detailed maps, hands-free calling via Bluetooth, and voice recognition.

Like other TomTom GPS devices, it will also feature the TomTom HD Traffic technology that steers drivers away from traffic jams and updates traffic information every two minutes. This includes incident reports that detail the length of the delay and the cause.

The device is priced at $269.95 and includes a one-year subscription to TomTom’s LIVE Services, which offers access to Google local search, weather forecasts, and TomTom HD Traffic, among other connected features.

[via TomTom]

In Western Europe alone, there have been 70,000km of new roads added or realigned to accommodate the London 2012 Summer Olympics. The update also added new low emission zone features to Western Europe to support environmental driving. Russia, Poland, and Turkey also had updates with 36,000km of roads added.

Along with the new roads also come 600,000 more POIs. Other features include specialized lane information and back road designations to help make navigation safer. Postal information in the US and Canada has been updated for business users.

The app interfaces uses the TomTom enhanced POI database and combines it with TomTom maps to allow the user to find local establishments and places. The iPhone user can then search for hotels, restaurants, and supermarkets among other things from the iPhone. Once found, the user can navigate to the location easily.

The app also lists the locations of tourist attractions and ATM machines. Favorite searches can be stored for easy access later. The app is a free download and is on the App Store right now in supported countries.

The navigation system is tied into the car’s battery system and when a driver picks a route to a destination they want to travel to, the driving range of the car on a full charge is overlaid with the driving route. The nav system will also plot the location of charging station along the route for the driver to use to extend the range. The charging station database contains over 5,000 locations around Europe.

It also has an eco-route option to let the driver choose the most energy efficient route. Presumably, that would be the flattest and least trafficked route, not nessicarily the shortest. Obviously, since the Renault brand is only offered in Europe that will be where the TomTom Carminat system is limited to as well. I think that this is a very cool system and it will end up being seen on other EVs and cars as well.

TomTom’s Live services include apps like Yelp, TripAdvisor, Expedia, and Twitter. They make it convenient for you to access travel information while on the road, such as finding hotel availability, reading restaurant reviews, and discovering other points of interest. The Twitter integration also lets you automatically tweet your arrival time and location. Additionally, there are apps for checking nearby fuel prices, speed cameras, and weather as well as a Google Local Search app.

The TomTom Go Live 1535M also features voice recognition with one-step address entry, Bluetooth hands-free calling, a 5-inch touchscreen, an integrated mount with flip-screen, advanced lane guidance, and spoken street names. The device is set to launch in October for $249, which includes a free 12-month subscription to Live services.

[via TomTom]

The traffic information claims to be the most accurate and captures more traffic jams than ever before to help drivers avoid delays and find the fastest routed. The app is able to track and show traffic on both major highways and secondary roads. The update enables the live traffic, but to get the service you have to make an in-app purchase.

The in-app purchase price for the traffic service is $19.99 and TomTom notes that those already subscribed to TomTom Traffic will get the upgrade at no charge. The app is on the App Store right now. The updates also allows for multiple stops on a single route with up to five stop off points and the update brings new maps as well.

Text-to-speech voice recognition for entering addresses on the move is supported, along with other voice commands. QuickGPSfix is apparently capable of grabbing satellites in mere seconds, and there’s an orientation sensor inside that can automatically flip the display between portrait and landscape orientation depending on how you sit the PND on the bundled mounting dish.

The TomTom GO LIVE 820 regional model costs €199 ($280) while the European version costs €229 ($322). As for the TomTom GO LIVE 825, the regional version costs €229 and the European version costs €249 ($350). They’re available in Austria, Belgium, Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, Ireland, Italy, Norway, Portugal, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, the Netherlands and the United Kingdom, though not all services are operational in each country; more details in the press release below.

Press Release:

Introducing the TomTom GO LIVE 800 series – smart, easy, connected navigation

New connected device makes LIVE Services more accessible and helps more drivers to break free from traffic jams

Amsterdam, 24 May 2011 – Today, TomTom makes connected navigation even more accessible with the launch of the TomTom GO LIVE 800 series. This stylish new addition to the TomTom GO portfolio comes with a whole year of LIVE Services– including TomTom’s market leading HD Traffic service.
The launch of the TomTom GO LIVE 800 series is part of a complete refresh of the TomTom product lineup. This sees TomTom’s whole range simplified and split into the non-connected Start and Via ranges – designed for those drivers seeking convenience and comfort – and the connected GO LIVE range, for drivers who want to benefit from real-time traffic and route information on their journey.
“The TomTom GO LIVE 800 series is designed to help everyone reap the benefits of connected navigation,” says Corinne Vigreux, Managing Director, Consumer at TomTom. “Its smart design puts powerful TomTom LIVE Services like HD Traffic into a great value package – helping drivers everywhere to break free from jams.”
All GO LIVE 800 devices bring one year of TomTom’s market-leading LIVE Services straight to their device. The flagship service is TomTom HD Traffic, which delivers accurate traffic information every two minutes – that’s up to seven times more frequently than any other provider. With coverage across more roads and more countries than any other traffic service, HD Traffic gives drivers detailed incident reports, length of and reason for delays, accurate travel and arrival times – even alternative route proposals.
The LIVE Services bundle also includes the Speed Cameras service, providing mobile and fixed speed camera alerts, while Local Search helps to pinpoint shops and businesses in the area. QuickGPSfix, meanwhile, helps drivers to start navigating in seconds. And they don’t need to worry that the weather will spoil their plans – the TomTom GO LIVE 800 range also gives drivers local and five-day forecasts courtesy of TomTom Weather.
Drivers can also use their voice to enter addresses, while hands-free calling via Bluetooth® lets them make and answer phone calls safely whilst on the move, so it’s easier than ever to stay in touch and in control.
All devices in the GO LIVE 800 series are based on TomTom’s award-winning IF product design, where stylish looks meet clever functionality. The intelligent orientation sensor within GO LIVE 800 series devices, for example – coupled with the fully integrated flip screen mount – lets drivers mount their device to their dashboard, automatically rotating the screen 180 degrees. All drivers need to add is a dashboard mounting disc.
Just like every other device in the TomTom lineup, TomTom GO LIVE 800 series devices come with a bigger screen, for an even clearer and more comfortable view. Drivers simply have to choose whether they want the GO LIVE 820 with its 4.3″ touch screen, or the GO LIVE 825 with the larger, 5″ touch screen.
Vigreux concludes: “The new GO LIVE 800 will make TomTom HD Traffic available to more people, providing them with the very best traffic information available. This is something we committed to in our Traffic Manifesto last year, giving drivers who use TomTom HD Traffic more control by keeping them fully informed of the exact traffic situation. These drivers will spend less time stuck in traffic, arriving less stressed and on time, with quicker alternative routes offered to them as soon as they are available.”
Availability and pricing
● ● ● ●
The TomTom GO LIVE 820 (regional version) costs €199. The TomTom GO LIVE 820 Europe costs €229. The TomTom GO LIVE 825 (regional version) costs €229. The TomTom GO LIVE 825 Europe costs €249.
All TomTom GO LIVE 800 series devices are available to buy now in the following countries: Austria, Belgium, Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, Ireland, Italy, Norway, Portugal, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, the Netherlands and the United Kingdom.
Notes for Editors Key features of the TomTom GO LIVE 800 series
● LIVE Services 1 year Avoid surprises on the road ahead with LIVE information like HD Traffic delivered direct to your device 1 year for free
● Hands-free calling Hands-free calling via Bluetooth®● Integrated mounting with flip screen Integrated mounting with flip screen, automatically rotates the screen 180 degrees ● Richer maps Richer, more detailed maps than ever ? In 4.3″ and 5″ touch screen See more and drive easy ● Voice Control Use your voice to plan your route and give other commands to your device. Only available in selected

countries: IT, CH, FR, NL, BE, PT, ES, DE, UK, IE, AT, SA ● Built-in Micro SD slot Access even richer content in the future – enabled via a software update in summer 2011
Coverage of LIVE Services varies per country as follows:
● HD Traffic in 16 countries*: AT, BE, CH, DE, DK, ES, FI, FR, IE, IT, LU, NL, NO, PT, SE, UK ● Local Search with GoogleTM in 17 countries*: AT, BE, CH, CZ, DE, DK, ES, FI, FR, UK, IE, IT, NL, NO, PL, PT, SE ● Speed Cameras in 18 countries: AT, BE, CZ, DE, DK, ES, FI, FR, GR, IE, IT, LU, NL, NO, PL, PT SE, UK ● Weather and QuickGPSfix in 33 countries: AT, BE, BG, CH, CY, CZ, DE, DK, EE, ES, FI, FR, UK, GR, HU, IE, IT, LI, LT,
LU, LV, MC, MT, NL, NO, PL, PT, RO, SE, SK, SL, SM, VA *Quality may differ per country.

The 9150 is connected to the office back end and allows the home office to route a driver from the fleet that is closest to the destination automatically using the Webfleet software backend. The GPS unit supports Map Share that allows the maps to be updated and edited by the users. That is important in areas where there is a lot of construction and new addresses are added frequently.

Battery life away from a DC outlet is up to 2 hours. It supports Bluetooth hands free calling and has 8GB of internal storage, the screen resolution is 480 x 272 and it weighs 260g. Pricing on the device is unknown and it includes maps of the US, Mexico, and Canada.

Navtones now has a new Busey voice to go along with the Hasselhoff, Mr. T, and Flavor Flav offerings it already has. The voice will give drivers turn-by-turn directions while spouting oddities that Gary is famous for.

Quips like “do not pet the lions or the gorillas,” or “be in the silence and let the journey be in the noise” will be offered up among others. I particularly like “don’t look in to the rear-view mirror to clean your teeth, or you could rear end a log truck in Oregon and remove your teeth forever.” The voice pack has 60 different clips and you can grab it now for $6.95.

Meanwhile, the GO 2535 has a 5-inch display, along with Bluetooth support. Both come in four different versions, the basic model, the 2435/2535T (with lifetime traffic updates), the 2435/2535M (with lifetime map updates) and the 2435/2535TM (with both lifetime maps and traffic updates).

There’s also the GO 2535TM WTE (World Traveler Edition) which adds European mapping data to the standard US, Canada and Mexico maps. Finally, a TomTom GO 2535M LIVE version throws in TomTom HD Traffic and a year’s access to the company’s connected services. No word on pricing at this stage.

[via GPSTrackLog]

TomTom has announced a new and free personalization program that offers custom printing on GPS devices. The service is called My Custom TomTom GPS and is available right now for users. The service lets the user choose from images that are already on the site and the user can even upload their favorite personal images to be printed onto the GPS device.

That means that the GPS unit can have an image of your dog or family. The custom printing service can also be paired with the content-sharing platform TomTom already has to send custom start pages, voices, and POI sets to the device. It would be funny if you could have a photo of your family with your kids providing the voices for directions. The service is compatible with select GPS models and they are printed by CafePress.

The TomTom XNV-770BT will give your fingers some room to touch, as it will feature a 7-inch capacitive touchscreen. The XNV-660BT saves some room, and will pack a 6.1-inch capacitive touchscreen display. Both navigational units will also come with pre-loaded maps for not only the United States, but also Canada. They will also include USB ports on the back, so you will be able to connect your favorite iDevice. As well as multi-channel audio playback.

Both units will also offer TomTom’s IQ Routes, MapShare, six million POIs, and Advanced Lane Guidance, making sure you get to where you’re going safely. You’ll be able to get your hands on these navigational units come this November, and it will cost you $1,000 for the XNV-660BT and $1,300 for the XNV-770BT.

Press Release

Sony and TomTom Team Up to Deliver Premium In-Dash A/V Navigation Systems

Two New Models Feature Innovative Navigation Technologies, High-contrast Screens and More

SAN DIEGO, Sept. 30 /PRNewswire/ — Sony today announced its first in-dash car navigation systems for the U.S. market, featuring technology powered by industry leader TomTom.

Designed to offer drivers the ultimate package of technology, innovation and style, the new XNV-770BT and XNV-660BT A/V navigation systems feature some of the most advanced car audio, video and navigational technologies in market today.

“TomTom’s expertise in navigation and our long-standing tradition of premium audio and video are strongly represented with these new in-dash systems,” said Mike Kahn, director of Sony’s mobile music business. “This unique partnership and exciting product offerings represent a huge step forward for Sony in the mobile electronics business.”

“We are delighted to work with Sony to deliver powerful, feature-rich navigation to their savvy consumers, ensuring a stress-free, enjoyable drive,” said Giles Shrimpton, managing director, TomTom Automotive. “Our joint innovations in this arena will incorporate flexible hardware design with standard interfaces that allow for easy updating in the future.”

Industry-Leading Navigation

Both of Sony’s new systems, the XNV-770BT (7-inch widescreen display) and XNV-660BT (6.1-inch widescreen display) come pre-loaded with TomTom’s extensive map database of both U.S. and Canada roads, with one free year of map upgrades provided at no incremental charge. In the U.S. alone, TomTom maps feature more than 1 million more miles of roads than other GPS brands.

Further, each system will take full advantage of several of TomTom’s advanced navigational technologies, including:

* IQ Routes™ evaluates all route options based on actual traffic speeds rather than posted speed limits, and will recommend the fastest route for the time of day.
* Advanced Lane Guidance™ provides enhanced lane graphics that show which lane to take in complex multi-lane situations.
* Quick GPSfix™ automatically updates satellite locations to get the driver on their way faster.
* MapShare™ from TomTom and its enormous navigation community enables drivers to correct their maps and benefit from changes made by other drivers via your computer and the free software TomTom HOME.
* More than 6 million points of interest including gas stations, restaurants, hotels, hospitals and more.

Premium Car Audio and Video

Each of Sony’s new A/V Navigation systems features a high quality WVGA display that offers one of the brightest and highest contract screens available in market today. The XNV-770BT model is a 7-inch, fully capacitive touch motorized panel display and the XNV-660BT model is a 6.1-inch capacitive touch with several hard keys such as volume and key menu buttons.

Both new A/V systems feature rear USB-1 wire connectivity for simple hookup to iPod®, iPhone® and other digital music players, full Bluetooth capability and a stylish graphical user interface (GUI) that includes large, easy-touch buttons. When listening to a connected device, the music playback screen will display all song metadata and album artwork.

On the audio front, the new XNV-660BT and XNV-770BT models feature multi-channel playback with Center Speaker Organizer (CSO), creating virtual 5.1 channel surround sound throughout the car. The advanced sound engine (ASE) ensures a high-quality, digitally enhanced sound experience and allows users to customize the in-car sound field to match their tastes. Further, Sony’s unique SensMe™ feature has the ability to automatically create custom music playlists and radio channels from a connected music library.

Both the new XNV-770BT and XNV-660BT A/V navigation systems will be available this November for about $1,300 and $1,000, respectively, at www.sonystyle.com, Sony Style retail stores and throughout the Sony authorized dealer network nationwide.

If Star Wars isn’t your thing, you might like the new line of voices that TomTom has announced. You will soon be able to choose from a full line of Looney Tunes voices for your device. Right now, you can get Bugs Bunny and Yosemite Sam voices.

Starting in October you will also be able to get Daffy Duck and Sylvester. In November, Pepe le Pew and Pepe le Pew ladies version for your compatible device will also be offered. The Yosemite Sam voice doesn’t sound much like the real deal from when I was a kid, but the voices are cool nonetheless. Each voice pack costs £7.95.

The downside for the people who paid the $120 for the car kit early and have now upgraded to the iPhone 4 was that the new iPhone would not fit the car kit without an adapter. TomTom has announced that anyone who purchased the car kit before can now get a free iPhone 4 adapter to make the new Apple device fit.

The adapter will be given free of charge and users can order one up starting tomorrow. All car kits sold as of September 1 will include the iPhone 4 adapter in the package. The adapter appears to be a block of plastic that sticks to the back of the iPhone holder to support the iPhone 4 during use.

I’m not a GPS user, but this commercial makes me want to get one just so I can have Yoda tell me constantly that I have taken a wrong turn, to the dark side. The best line of the whole commercial is “You’re gonna kill people if you keep giving directions like that.”

If you are a fan of Star Wars and own a TomTom GPS device, you are going to have to buy this voice pack. Check out the commercial below.

Via Jalopnik

There’s also a choice of SKUs with either lifetime map updates, lifetime traffic updates, or both.  All get Advanced Lane Guidance and over 7m POIs.  Both models will go on sale later this month, priced from $169 for the TomTom XL 350 and from $199 for the TomTom XXL 550; adding lifetime maps or lifetime traffic updates will be $30 each.

Press Release:

TomTom Launches New and Innovative XL 350 and XXL 550 Range of Navigation Devices

Latest Series Incorporates New Easy-to-Use Interface and Products with Lifetime Traffic and Map Updates Options

CONCORD, Mass.–(BUSINESS WIRE)–TomTom, the world’s leading provider of location and navigation solutions, today announces the TomTom XL 350 and XXL 550 series, the latest models in the company’s award-winning portable navigation product line. This range includes the new TomTom EasyMenu™, a sleek display and all the quality navigation features from TomTom that consumers rely on to safely and efficiently reach their destinations.

“These new products combine some of the most advanced and acclaimed TomTom features in an easy-to-use format and further deliver on our commitment to providing the most intelligent navigation products in the market”
All TomTom products in the XL 350 and XXL 550 range include TomTom’s new EasyMenu user interface, which offers sharp graphics and a simple touchscreen menu that provides quick access to search tools so that users can get started towards their destination even faster. All products also include TomTom’s proprietary IQ Routes™ Technology and TomTom Map Share™. IQ Routes offers the most efficient routing for any time of day or day of week. Map Share allows users to make map improvements on their device and share these improvements with the TomTom community.

“These new products combine some of the most advanced and acclaimed TomTom features in an easy-to-use format and further deliver on our commitment to providing the most intelligent navigation products in the market,” said Tom Murray, senior vice president of market development at TomTom, Inc. “With the introduction of the XL 350 and XXL 550 range, we empower our users with the accuracy of TomTom’s most up-to-date maps and intelligent routing information that helps them avoid traffic delays and other hassles on the road.”

Select devices across the new range of XL 350 and XXL 550 devices include Lifetime Maps and/or Lifetime Traffic Updates:

Lifetime Map Updates feature allows users to keep their maps fresh by downloading, every few months, the industry’s most accurate and up-to-date maps.
The maps include one million more miles than competing maps and, in certified tests, rate highest in terms of quality and reliability. Because an average of 18% of road information changes each year, maps are continually refreshed to include improvements across the entire road network and updates to points of interest (POIs). With Lifetime Map Updates, consumers always have access to the best maps available.
Lifetime Map Updates are available on XL 350M, XL 350TM, XXL 550M and XXL 550TM devices.
Lifetime Traffic Updates feature offers real-time insight into current traffic conditions to help drivers avoid delays.
The TomTom device receives the latest, constantly-updated traffic information; recalculates total drive time; and suggests more efficient alternate routes if they are available.
Combined with TomTom IQ Routes, the real-time traffic information via Lifetime Traffic Updates, ensures the smartest and fastest routing possible.
Lifetime Traffic Updates are available on XL 350T, XL 350TM, XXL 550 T, XXL 550 TM devices.
Technical specifications
Additional features on all devices include:

Maps: preloaded premium maps of the US/Canada/Mexico from Tele Atlas
MapShare on demand updates
IQ Routes
POIs: over 7 million points of interest
Advanced Lane Guidance
EasyMenu™
The new series of products also includes the XL 350 4.3″ model and the XL 550 5.0″ model.

Availability and Price

The X50 products will be available in late May and prices will begin at $169 for the 4.3”, and $199 for the 5.0”. Lifetime Maps and Lifetime Traffic Updates are each available for an additional $30.00.

Otherwise there’s 24/7 IQ Routes, which uses road traffic data to predict what routes will be busier at different times of the day and week, and Advanced Lane Guidance.  Mapping data covers the US (including Puerto Rico), Canada & Mexico and more than 7 million POIs.  MRSP for the XL 350 will range from $169.95 to $229.95, while the XXL 550 will range from $199.95 to $259.95.

[via GPS Track Log]

The first voice for TomTom users is that of Darth Vader. An authentic sounding Vader voice tells you where to go and leads you down the path to the Dark Side and your final destination. Other Star Wars voices will be coming as well.

You will be able to choose from C-3PO in June, Yoda in July, and Han solo in August. The voices will all sell for £ 7,95 and you can get free content for start screens, car icons and more to go along with the voices.

The Best of R3 Media

The LG Aloha Hits Verizon in May as the LG Ally: At least, that’s what the rumors are saying. Which is good news for Verizon Wireless customers, considering it’s got a physical slide out full QWERTY keyboard, and an impressive 1GHz Snapdragon processor under the hood. Now, if we could just talk about the name, then we’d probably get somewhere nice. We liked Aloha, Verizon. Really. [via Android Community]

Apple’s iAd Asks Marketers for $10 Million: Mobile advertisers are accustomed to paying to get their ads on things. And now that the mobile market is booming, and you’ve got Apple putting together iAd, why wouldn’t you want to jump on board? Maybe, just maybe, because Apple doesn’t want you to pay $100,000 to $200,000 to jump on board. Oh, no. How about $10 million? You’ll be part of a handful of marketers, which, isn’t surprising. Any takers? [via Everything iPad]

Palm Could Face Class-Action Lawsuit: Seems incorrect, right? Well, according to a law firm on behalf of some investors, it seems that they believe they’ve been short-changed due to this whole deal with HP. You know the one, where HP buys Palm? The deal equaled somewhere near $1.2 billion, or about $5.70 per share, and the investors believe that all of this should have gone down last year, when shares were at $17.20, apparently. There’s no word on how close the lawsuit is to being started, or if they’d win, but this should get interesting soon. [via SlashPhone]

The Dredget Net

Steam for Mac is Coming in May: Sure, they may have said that April would be the month of months, but Steam knows how to handle pushed released dates. You could almost call them professionals with it. And sure enough, Steam for Mac got pushed back. But, apparently, they’ve conceded that it’s now coming on May 12th, so, not too far away. Patience, it works out. We promise. [via Joystiq]

TomTom Wants an App Store: Okay, this app thing may be getting out of hand. When a dedicated GPS company wants to get into the app game, it’s a certain fact. And, according to TomTom’s CEO, Harold Goddijn, that’s exactly what he wants for his units. By the end of this year, in fact. He wants something for both the consumer, as well as the automotive market, and he hopes that the WebKit-based Operating System will make it easy for developers who choose to come on board to create their apps. [via Pocket-Lint]

Samsung N150 Joins Other Verizon Wireless Netbooks: Short and sweet here: the Samsung N150 has been officially unveiled for Verizon Wireless, with embedded 3G. It’s black, and red, and that shouldn’t surprise you in the slightest. You’re looking at your standard 10.1-inch netbook here, so unless you’re in the market for one, you probably won’t be blown away. [via Netbooked]

Pocket-Lint reports that TomTom is set to launch an app store this year, but executives declined to say exactly when the app store would land. The move to apps will use the recently unveiled webkit platform and let TomTom offer its GPS expertise in places other than its GPS devices.

One interesting possibility from the app store announcement is that TomTom might be working on an augmented reality app. However, company executives stated that augmented reality is not a major objective. How cool would it be for a GPS device to have its own internal camera to show the real world on the screen and augment that with common navigation themes.