IFA 2007: Sony add Bluetooth to satnav units

Widescreen units get handsfree calling

31 August 2007 16:11 GMT / By Stuart Miles

Sony has announced that it has added Bluetooth to its satnav range at IFA 2007 in Berlin, Germany.

The new range of slim-line, wide-screen nav-u personal navigation devices will include the NV-U93T, NV-U83, NV-U73T and NV-U53 models.

The NV-U93T and NV-U83 will feature a 4.8-inch screen with auto-dimmer which adjusts brightness by sensing sunlight as well as Traffic Message Channel (TMC) which monitors real-time broadcasts of information on traffic hold-ups for dynamic re-routing in the event of traffic delays.

Both models include POSITION plus which assists you in uninterrupted routing when GPS signals are temporarily compromised which can happen when the vehicle is travelling, for example through a tunnel or between tall buildings, enabling stress-free travel without interruption.

The units also feature something Sony is calling Gesture Command that uses the touchscreen. Users will be able to draw a line or shape on screen with a fingertip and the devices will recognise any frequent destination – like "home" or the "nearest petrol station" and guide you accordingly.

Both models will feature Bluetooth allowing users to connect their phones for handsfree calling.

The NV-U73T and NV-U53 will feature a 4.3-inch widescreen display. The U53/U73 models will be available throughout the UK and Ireland from November 2007. The U83/U93 models will be available from January 2008.