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Mio Technology and Navman brands merge
The GPS marketplace just whittled off another name. Mio and Navman are merging brands under the Navman Mio nameplate. Mio Navman, however, will continue as a brand in the UK, Spain, Australia, and New Zealand. Both are already subsidiaries of Mitac which acquired Navman back in February. The move is said to merge the hardware competency of Mio with the software expertise of Navman. 'Twas just an inevitability, really.Update: Jeebus, had it backwards. Long live Mio!
Mio releases its C620 and C620t PNDs with 3D maps
Mio's been generating some buzz with its new C620 series of personal navigation devices, thanks to their innovative digital elevation mapping and preloaded landmarks which allow for a 3D experience that trumps most other products on the market. Well the 4.3-inch C620 and TMC-equipped C620t are finally available for purchase, although pricing wasn't set in the announcement, probably because these split-screen Bluetooth units are being sold in a number of European countries but not where we want them most, right here in the good old US of A. [Via Slippery Brick]
Mio's seven-inch C728 navigator surfaces
Mio has quietly introduced a snazzy new navigator on its site, dubbed the C728. This unit boasts an expansive seven-inch 800 x 480 resolution touchscreen, 400MHz Samsung 2443 processor, SiRFstar III GPS chipset, AV input, internal speaker, SD / MMC expansion slots, a headphone jack, USB connectivity, 2GB of memory, 64MB of RAM and a rechargeable Li-ion good for nearly 2.5-hours on a full charge. Furthermore, you'll find Windows CE.net 5.0 runnin' the show, and there's even a multimedia player / image viewer built in. Sadly, mum's the word in regard to pricing and availability.[Via NaviGadget]
Mio set to release C523, C525 DigiWalker GPS units
It looks like Mio has seen fit to give its DigiWalker line of GPS units another bump in digits, with the company today announcing its new C523 and C525 models set for release in Japan later this month. Both of those boast 4.3-inch 480 x 272 displays, along with 2GB of internal memory, an SD card slot for expansion and, of course, all the usual PMP functions, with Windows CE.NET 5.0 running the show. The main difference between to two, it seems, is that the C525 packs a built-in extendable antenna for those that like to stray from their vehicle, along with a few differences in the pre-loaded maps and software. Look for each to be available in Japan on September 26th, setting you back ¥56,800 apiece (about $500).
Mio announces 4 GPS units: the P360, P560, C620, and C230
It sure took 'em awhile but the Mio P360 and P560 GPS / WinMo 6 PDAs jobbies have been announced for IFA. They've even got few friends: the 4.3-inch C620 (and C620t with TMC traffic receiver) pictured above and C230 chubster. Judging by the machine translated text, we expect all five to sport the same 400MHz processor and SiRFstar III GPS receiver. We'll update you with more as it rolls in. For now, peep the pics after the break.
Mio's C620 / C620t navigation units to offer '3D maps'
As if Mio didn't have enough new kit coming down the pipeline, now we've learned that the outfit is reportedly readying another duo of portable navigation devices. The C620 and C620t seem to only differ in the traffic functionality built into the latter, as each will sport a 4.3-inch touchscreen display, the MioMap 2008 software with redesigned GUI and split-screen capabilities, an integrated media player, and a contact book for good measure. More importantly, however, are the new TeleAtlas maps, which purportedly boast "3D models of certain buildings, landmarks, and more." No news just yet on pricing or availability, but word on the street has these two showing up at this month's IFA expo.[Via NaviGadget]
Mio prepping P360, P560 PDA / GPS units
It looks like Mio has a couple of new GPS-heavy PDAs in the works, with its new P360 and P560 models apparently set to replace the company's previous P350 and P550 units. While complete specs are still a little light, the biggest news here appears to be the addition of WiFi and Bluetooth 2.0, both of which were sorely lacking on the previous models. Otherwise, the devices have a slightly more streamlined design than before, along with an SD/MMC slot for expansion, a built-in microphone, and an embedded GPS antenna, with Windows Mobile 6 serving as the operating system. No word on pricing or availability, though the previous gen models started at €269 (or $366 at the current exchange rate).
Sega Toys' MIO pet robot: might chew slippers, jugulars
Sega Toys has another in a long line of personal robotic pets: the MIO. This deer/dog (deg?) sells for ¥9,240 in October or about $75 whenever it escapes Japan. Like any good robopet, the MIO features big doleful eyes capable of expressing joy, anger, and grief in response to your tender grace or heel of your boot. No doubt, the latest entry in Sega Toys' dream pet series helps ease you into the grave by washing away the empty ennui of your existence.
Mio GPS-enabled A702 sees light of day
The Mio A702 -- the replacement for the tweaked-looking Mio A701 Digi-Walker -- was unveiled amid much fanfare and smiling people in fancy outfits. Upgrade details include a bump to Windows Mobile 6 Pro, a 3.2 megapixel camera, MicroSD slot, and a jog wheel for speedy navigation. Connectivity also sees a bit of upgrading with the inclusion of WiFi (was lacking in the A701), Bluetooth, and we can only hope that the radio front reveals quad-band GSM with a few HSDPA frequencies thrown in for good measure. Official specs were not on the table at the unveiling, so expect an update post as soon as we hear more.[Via Slashphone]
Mio unveils seven-inch C517 DMB navigation system
While Mio's range of navigation systems is figuratively all over the map, the firm's latest offering packs a screen size that would have a hard time fitting in some dashes, let alone a cargo pocket. The seven-inch WVGA LCD that dominates the C517 isn't found in too many competitors, but bringing it in at just 22-millimeters thick and weighing 0.86-pounds could help convince users that it's not all that burdensome. Additionally, you'll notice USB connectivity, audio out, a media player, built-in antenna, and support for voice commands. Of course, it does manage to pull double duty as a DMB-tuning television for those in the Korean market, but unless you're positive that this thing won't be headed out into the wilderness with you, you may want to spend your 400,000KRW ($429) elsewhere. More snapshots after the jump.
Mio's C317 handheld GPS watches, records DMB TV
We've seen a plethora of handheld navigation units that pull double duty by tuning into terrestrial broadcasts when not navigating your routes, but Mio's C317 ups the ante by tossing in the oh-so-coveted recording capabilities. The well-spec'd device features a 4.3-inch NEC touchscreen, Samsung's 400MHz 2440 processor, Windows CE .Net 5.0, 256MB of NAND Flash, 64MB of SDRAM, SD / MMC card support for up to 8GB, integrated speakers, USB, 3.5-millimeter headphone out, and a rechargeable battery that should last between 3.5 and 5.5 hours depending on usage. The real kicker, however, is the built-in T-DMB tuner, which allows users to view broadcasted television in PIP, and even record said content onto one of their SD / MMC cards. Unfortunately, there doesn't appear to be an option for a built-in HDD, but we're already seeing the makings of a very valuable hack. No word just yet on price, nor if this bad boy will ever grace US / UK shores, but the South Korean crowd should be enjoying the niceties real soon.[Via NaviGadget]
The 2006 Engadget Awards: Vote for GPS Device of the Year
Now's your chance to cast your ballot for the 2006 GPS Device of the Year! Our Engadget Awards nominees are listed below, and you've got until 11.59PM EST on Sunday, April 15th to file your vote. You can only vote once, so make it count, and may the best tech win! The nominees: Garmin nüvi 660, Mio c710, Pharos iGPS-500, Sony PSP GPS, and TomTom GO 910. %Poll-292%
Mio quietly releases $250 C220 in-car GPS unit
One would think that a manufacturer releasing a sub-$250 GPS unit with a 3.5-inch touchscreen would want to make a little bit of noise about this attack on the low-end market, but not only did Mio fail to make a peep about launching the new C250-like C220, it didn't even bother do up a press release as far as we can tell. Thanks to eagle-eyed Jason who found this pretty powerful little unit on the Circuit City site, though, we finally have the full specs on a device which first peaked its head out a few months back: SiRFstar III, 400MHz Samsung CPU running Windows CE 5.0, 256MB ROM / 32MB RAM, 1200mAh rechargeable battery, and MioMap 3.3 navigation software with TeleAtlas maps loaded up onto an SD card. According to the good citizens of the 'City, the C220 also "tells you the likely locations of fixed speed cameras (speed cameras) and the likely locations of mobile traps, with free updates for a full year from the time you register," but Mio's US site makes no mention of such a service (or the C220 at all, for that matter), and only European countries are listed on the company's German Speedcam database. But hey, what can you really expect from such an entry level system, or from a retailer which just fired all the good people who knew anything about its products?[Thanks, Jason A.]
Mio kicks out C320 GPS unit
While it hardly comes as a surprise, Mio introduced its new C320 GPS unit at CeBIT this week, adding one more option to its current line-up of handheld navigation offerings. Like the previously announced C520, the C320 packs a 4.3-inch widescreen display, although it apparently drops the Bluetooth functionality of its pricier sibling. Otherwise, the unit will give you the same MP3 player capabilities and, of course, navigation options, with maps of 22 Western European countries courtesy of TeleAtlas pre-loaded on the 1GB of internal memory, and optional real-time traffic information available to those that need it. What's more, the unit will also provide warnings about speed cameras, with free updates available for a year -- just be sure to keep it out of Switzerland. Look for this one to roll out in Europe next month for 350€, or about $465.
Mio's WiFi-less A501 GPS smartphone in pictures
While rumors of Mio cranking out a new duo of GPS handhelds had already been circulating, the company made good on offering up a slightly less-spec'd sibling to its A701 handset, and now we've got the pictures to prove it. Boasting a fairly chunky enclosure but lacking an notched antenna, the A501 packs a TI OMAP processor, 1GB of storage, 64MB of system RAM, a 2.7-inch QVGA touchscreen display, quad-band connectivity, and Bluetooth 2.0 (sorry, no WiFi). Additionally, you'll find the older rendition of Windows Mobile, the obligatory SiRF III GPS chipset, a 1.3-megapixel camera, SD / MMC expansion slots, and a removable Li-ion battery to boot. No word on price or future availability just yet, but if it's pictures your after, be sure to click on through for a few more teasers, and hit the read link for the full set.[Via NaviGadget]
Mio readying c720 / c320 GPS handhelds?
Considering that Mio's known for cranking out a good variety of GPS handhelds, it's not too surprising to hear that the firm is readying a new duo of units to fill the voids surrounding the recently-unveiled c520. According to GPSReview, the c520 will slide into the middle position as the c320 and c720 flank both sides of the lineup, and while information on each of these presumably forthcoming units are a bit scarce at the moment, it seems that we could be getting a taste of something new. While both devices are slated to boast the same internal antenna, MP3 playback functionality, and SD / MMC support, the c720 could potentially get a two-megapixel camera affixed to the rear, which would likely be used to "store tracklogs" and enable geotagging. As with most not-yet-announced items, there's no word just yet on expected price or availability, but hopefully Mio won't keep us waiting around too long.
Mio busts out C250 portable GPS unit on the cheap
As if Mio didn't already have enough options for snatching your GPS dollar British pound, it's now introducing the decently-featured C250 navigation device to keep things interesting. Along with that 3.5-inch touchscreen, the device features full UK maps, major European roads, speed camera locations and free traffic alerts. The device is based on a 400MHz CPU, 64MB of RAM and a SiRF Star III chipset, and can manage MP3 playback in a pinch, but seems to be mainly suited for its primary purpose. The best news is the price: at £170 ($324 US) it comes in underneath many similarly specced devices, and should be available for stuffing some stockings this holiday season.
Suzuki Motors unveils MIO: the fuel cell-powered wheelchair
If you're trying to get away from that gas guzzling wheelchair, but feel a bit awkward rolling in the less-than-glamorous solar-powered edition, Suzuki Motors has got your back. Taking a leap forward from its previous lead-acid battery-powered electric wheelchair, the MIO is a motor-driven cart that gets its juice from an ultra-green fuel cell. The cell works in conjunction with a "large capacity Li-ion secondary battery," and while we aren't certain of how quickly this bad boy can streak down the quarter mile, it can supposedly cruise for 25 miles on a single fill up (four liters) of methanol solution. Aside from the power source, the MIO sports armrests that serve double duty as safety barriers, ergonomic handlebars, a comfortable mesh seating surface, and even an LCD panel that shows such useful data as fuel level and power status. While Suzuki insists the unit is simply a prototype, and refuses to hand out pricing details while it "judges consumer interest," the MIO should still be a bit easier to acquire than the sold out Tesla should it ever hit stores.[Via Far East Gizmos]
Mio DigiWalker H610 fits in the palm of your hand
Last we heard from Mio, its C310 GPS receiver got dinged for being at bit slap-dash in its design, without the proper vertical integration of say, a Garmin or a Magellan device. Well,, perhaps all of that will change: Mio announced the new DigiWalker H610, a handheld GPS device that the company claims is smaller than a 5.5G iPod. The H610 comes with maps of the entire US and Canada (updated via USB when connected to a PC), a 2.7-inch screen, an SD card slot and a five hour battery life. When it finally hits in November, you'll have to slap five hundies for the pleasure of wandering the streets with one, but if that's too much for you and too long of a wait, you could always go with the Delphi NAV200, available next month for $150 less.
Mio C310 GPS receiver / MP3 player reviewed
Personal Tech Pipeline got a chance to tour around with Mio's C310 portable GPS receiver with built-in DAP that we first spotted at CES, and claim that although the unit is a pretty good value, its performance is a bit underwhelming. Rather than building a product from the ground up like the Garmins and Magellans of the world, Mio has assembled a Windows CE-powered unit featuring software from Destinator Technologies and maps from TeleAtlas -- which, while not necessarily a bad thing, means some of the features aren't as polished as they are on vertically-integrated products. For example, PTP found that many important options were buried under several sub-menus, which made simple tasks like changing to night mode or selecting a new destination while driving more difficult than they should be, and probably more dangerous. The C310 seemed to perform its navigation duties fairly well, though, and even ships with ActiveSync for loading up your Outlook contacts' addresses, but little annoyances like a cluttered 3.5-inch screen and awful built-in speakers might be enough to convince most folks to put their $600 towards a more expensive model that operates a little more smoothly.