Sony launches NV-U80 and NV-U81T nav-u GPS

Two new satnavs from Sony

1 September 2006 15:00 GMT / By Stuart Miles

Sony launches two new additions to its nav-u GPS family.

The NV-U80 and NV-U81T are the latest portable navigation systems to hit the market and features something Sony is calling "Position Plus" technology that helps guide drives along their route – even when the GPS signal is compromised or completely lost.

Both models offer a 4.3-inch widescreen touch display with Sony’s "Gesture Command" feature - which reduces the need to navigate on-screen menus whilst driving.

Both the U80 and U81T have been equipped with Bluetooth allowing drivers to answer any Bluetooth enabled mobile phone. The Bluetooth hands-free calling can even bring up the handset’s phonebook and call a number at the touch of a button.

Drivers can switch between two modes whilst on the move giving them access to the standard route display as well as a unique abstract view.

The NV-U81T stores a full European map (37 countries) on its 4GB hard disk drive, which is protected from bumps and vibrations by Sony’s HDD protection technology.

The NV-U80 stores a UK map in its 512MB memory.

Additional maps can be uploaded via the supplied European map DVD-ROM. The NV-U81T also supports Traffic Message Channel information (optional on NV U80).

The NV-U80 and NV-U81T will be available in the UK from November 2006.