California-based Dash Navigation is looking to stir up the ever-evolving world of GPS navigation when it begins shipping its Dash Express during the first quarter of 2008. The company says their device is the first to combine navigation, real-time traffic from different sources including units belonging to its own subscribers, and constant Internet connectivity.

For navigation, the Dash Express works like most GPS devices, with drivers entering addresses or choosing from a points-of-interest (POI) menu. The real-time traffic info comes from data provided by the same sources used by other GPS manufacturers. The real buzz is that it also can receive traffic information from other Dash units, turning each unit into a mobile traffic sensor. A company spokesperson said, Dash traffic info will only improve as more units are put into use, and it will include data from secondary roads not always covered by others. The units offer drivers up to three alternative routes to a destination, with estimated drive times for each.

The Dash Express uses both WiFi and GPRS (cellular) network for connectivity. Gas prices, restaurants with menus, and movie listings all come from the Internet, and subscribers are constantly being provided with updated information. They also have the option of going to the Dash Web site and customizing their POI menus with categories like playgrounds or dog parks. "Send2Car" allows an address highlighted on a home computer to be sent to the device. Users can also create information feeds to send from their my.dash.net account.

The ability to be connected enables the Dash Express to automatically update software and eventually maps.

Cost for the Dash Express is $299 (updated 8/29/08); monthly data subscriptions range from $9.99 to $12.99 depending on the length of the plan.

—Jim Travers

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