With a new form factor, a completely revamped user interface, and roadside assistance features, here’s a GPS device that shows some real innovation. For the price, the Maestro 4040 offers a surprisingly large number of features. Magellans Say Where text-to-speech engine enables the device to pronounce street names and exit ramps. Next, you get expanded map data and a larger POI (points of interest) database.

The 4040 is also upgradeable to provide live traffic info. Finally, you can enable the Maestro 4040 to accept voice commands for virtually hands-free operation. In addition, I like how the Maestro supports multiple destination routing. Not too shabby, either, is the big 4.3-inch nonreflective QVGA display and modern SiRFstarIII receiver.

Best of all, Magellan has partnered with the American Automobile Association (AAA) to integrate roadside assistance information and AAA-rated business listings right into the device. On the Maestros main menu, a tap of the tow truck icon displays toll free numbers for both AAA membership and assistance, as well as your exact location. On my road tests, the Maestro 4040 was a great companion, generating accurate routes. The new user interface was also a significant improvement over previous Magellan models.

Magellan Maestro 4040: $499.99

Emërtimet: GPS