navigational
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HAPMAP navigational system keeps your eyes on the prize, your hands on the route (video)
Alternative navigational systems aren't exactly new, but the concept shown here just might have wings. HAPMAP was one of a handful of projects selected for demonstration at SIGGRAPH's E-tech event, aiming to keep a human's eye away from the map (and in turn, on whatever's in front of them) by developing a system that guides via haptics. With a handheld device capable of both navigating and vibrating, the interface indicates complex navigation cues that follow the curvature of a road or path -- it's far more detailed than the typical "go straight," and there's also opportunity here to provide handicapped individuals with a method for getting to previously inaccessible locales. By mimicking the operation and interface of sliding handrails (as well as using motion capture cameras), it's particularly useful for the visually impaired, who need these subtle cues to successfully navigate a winding path. Hop on past the break for a couple of demonstration vids. %Gallery-130395%
TomTom busts out GO 2405 TM and GO 2505 TM navigational devices
TomTom's just launched two new navigational devices, the GO 2405 TM and the GO 2505 TM. These units boast several updated software features, including 'instant' route planning (which is actually continuous routing), and a redesigned interface which makes use of pinch-to-zoom and swiping gestures. The GO 2405 TM has a 4.3-inch display and will run you $299, while the 2505 TM is a 5-incher and retails for $319. Both are available now at Amazon, Best Buy, and TomTom.com, and will be available at retail stores sometime in mid-2011. Full press release is below.
