CN-GP50U
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Panasonic's portable Strada CN-GP50U GPS reviewed: not a winner
As with Jeep's lackluster RT-300, Panasonic's portable Strada CN-GP50U GPS is probably better left on the shelf. We know, it'll be awfully tough to resist that magnificent 5-inch panel and the sleek black frame, but according to PC Mag, this thing is just so-so on its best day. For starters, the price premium over rivaling 4.3-inch units was tough for critics to justify, and coupled with a small POI database, sluggish performance and awkward destination / POI input, hope for success was pretty much extinguished. As if that weren't enough to frighten you off, reviewers also noted that data fields in the map view were "small and difficult to read," which probably should not ever be the case on -- you know -- a navigation system. We appreciate the effort, Panny, but we'd suggest nailing the basics next time before turning to pizazz.
Panasonic gets official with US-bound Strada CN-GP50U navigator
Just when you thought that no company in its right mind would bother entering the (way) over-saturated portable navigation market in the US now, along comes Panasonic to prove you wrong. The Strada CN-GP50U has already completed a European tour of duty, and now it's officially heading stateside and bringing along a five-inch touchscreen, 1.8 million POIs, NAVTEQ maps of the US, Canada, Puerto Rico and Mexico, USB connectivity, an SD expansion slot and an integrated photo viewer. Furthermore, the device will support handsfree calling via Bluetooth, and the Voice Command / speed limit warning functions should thoroughly please, too. We sincerely hope you weren't banking on Panny just giving these away, though, as folks opting to snap one up this December will be laying down a hefty $499.95 for the privilege.
