T-Mobile and GPS maker Garmin are teaming up to release the Garminfone, the first Android-powered smartphone that integrates Garmin’s navigation software.
Those that are hopelessly lost, rejoice! Your salvation comes in the form of a new T-Mobile exclusive phone, dubbed the Garminfone. Combining the Android operating system with the ability to access Garmin’s services, users can navigate to a location by clicking on it in a text or an email, through your contact list, a calendar appointment or from a webpage. It will also remember where you have been, so you will never lose your car in a parking garage again.
The phone is a T-Mobile exclusive and is set to debut later this Spring. The 3G smartphone will include a 3.5-inch touchscreen as well as a 3-megapixel camera that automatically geo-tags photos, allowing you to navigate back to where the picture was taken. You can also upload the geo-tagged photos for others to see- and then find- through the navigation software.
The Garmin services will also allow you to access public transportation, as well as the latest traffic reports, weather and even the best gas prices in your area. If you leave a T-Mobile service area, the pre-loaded maps can help you navigate until service is restored. The standard Android apps are also available via the Android marketplace.
“As the North American leader in Personal Navigation Devices, Garmin sought to partner with the leading carrier of Android smartphones, T-Mobile USA, to bring our first Android device to market.” Cliff Pemble, president and COO, Garmin International said in the press release, “Garmin’s advanced, user-friendly navigation technology is used by millions of people every day, and the combination of Garmin’s rich navigation services on the Android platform simply makes Garminfone a must-have device for families, individuals, travelers, commuters, and professionals alike.”
No word yet on price or a release date, other than spring.
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