Palm GPS Navigator Gets Garmin Software

Palm has announced a new version of its GPS Navigator service using Garmin's Mobile XT software, preloaded on a microSD card.

PDA and smartphone maker Palm has been offering mapping and navigation services for use with its GPS-enabled smartphones for some time, with the service based on software and mapping data from TomTom. Now, Palm has announced a new GPS Navigator based on rival Garmin’s Mobile XT software. Based on a microSD card, users can pop the software and maps into their smartphones (using a miniSD or SD card adapter if necessary) and get voice-prompted turn-by-turn directions and tap into a database of millions of points of interest while they’re out on the go.

“With Garmin’s high-powered software, Palm smartphone users will have GPS capabilities while on the go,” said Palm accessory solutions product manager Ed Tse, in a statement. “Palm’s legendary touch screen and full QWERTY keyboard allow for quick input and inquiry.”

Based on mapping data from Navteq—which is now being purchased by Nokia for over $8 billion—the Garmin XT software comes with maps for the United States, Canada, and Puerto Rico, and enables users to get point to point directions to specific street addresses. If a user misses a turn, a new route is automatically calculated. The software also gives users access to Garmin Online so users can get traffic updates (from traffic.com), weather reports, fuel and hotel prices, and other information.

Expect the Palm GPS Navigator featuring Garmin Mobile XT software to be available in November with a suggested price of $249.99.