Today T-Mobile has announced a new Android device to join their lineup later this Spring. The Garminfone (by Garmin and Asus) comes equipped with a 3.5 inch capacitive touchscreen, 3-megapixel autofocus camera with digital zoom, Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, GPS (this is obvious), microSD expansion up to 32GB and a plethora of navigation features such as turn-by-turn directions and pre-installed travel apps.
The device is expected to be launched with Android 1.6, but hopefully an upgrade won't be far off considering 1.6 is quickly becoming ancient. According to the press release, Garmin decided to partner exclusively with T-Mobile because of T-Mobile's experience with Android.
Cliff Pemble, president and COO, Garmin International said, “As the North American leader in Personal Navigation Devices, Garmin sought to partner with the leading carrier of Android smartphones, T-Mobile USA, to bring our first Android device to market. Garmin’s advanced, user-friendly navigation technology is used by millions of people every day, and the combination of Garmin’s rich navigation services on the Android platform simply makes Garminfone a must-have device for families, individuals, travelers, commuters, and professionals alike.”
This phone could have a lot of promise for consumers who are reluctant to spend money on both smartphones and personal navigation devices, but want the integrated experience. It could also be an additional boost for Android, as the phone is being marketed as a device with "Integrated navigation + Smartphone Experience," so if all goes smoothly it could help to increase Android adoption by consumers who wouldn't ordinarily go that route.
Who's considering purchasing this device come Spring? "In one quarter of a mile, turn left," and don't forget to leave your comments below!
Via TmoNews
For the full press release, go here.
