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TomTom to ship iPod touch-specific car kit
updated 03:20 pm EST, Fri November 20, 2009
Gear less expensive than iPhone model
GPS maker TomTom has revealed a new car mount, one designed exclusively for the iPod touch. The accessory reflects a recent update to the company's GPS app, which now includes Touch support. The new kit is little different from its more broadly-compatible iPhone version, mainly being $20 cheaper at a price of $100.
Aside from holding a Touch, the mount is necessary to enable GPS reception for the player when using TomTom's app. The kit also includes a stereo output, a built-in speaker and a USB adapter, the latter allowing the mount to charge iPods while in use. No release date has been set, though TomTom does promise it will be "available shortly."
MisstepMisstep.
11/20, 03:35pm reply
$20 cheaper TomTom? For what reason? Who are the people behind these ridiculous business decisions?
cmoney
Dedicated MacNNer
Joined: Sep 2000
Won't fly in my Auto.
11/20, 05:28pm reply
Since I use an Alpine iDA-X200 head unit, which has a direct interface with the iPod or iPhone for real-time searching and pristine audio quality (it actually transfers the song/podcast to the HU digitally and applies its own equalizer), this little gem is a no go for me. Sad.
danviento
Fresh-Faced Recruit
Joined: Dec 2005
Who is running this company?
11/21, 06:19pm reply
While I commend them for bringing out a Touch version... these people are still quite out of touch with reality. First, why would it cost less than the iPhone version? However, more importantly, why does either cost what it does? I could understand if the app was bundled with it (I'd run right out and buy one then), but with the app costing $99 and then another $100+ for the mount... it now costs more than stand-alone units... and I'm supplying most of the hardware. Pay $100 extra for byoh (bring your own hardware)?
TomTom... you have a huge PR problem on your hands. You'd better put someone in charge who is willing to do what is necessary to address it. You had a great opportunity after appearing on stage with Apple, but you've blown it in the public opinion.
Steve Wilkinson
Fresh-Faced Recruit
Joined: Dec 2001