Chet's Corner: nüvi 7xx series first looks

I have to say that the design and operating system changes on this new series of nüvis are very nice steps forward in the nüvi evolution. From the changes to the map screen to the new menu icons and structure and the new keyboard layouts to the "Where Am I?" functions, it is a very nice upgrade. 

There is also the addition of two new features. The first is the routes menu where you can manipulate multi-point routes right from the device or manipulate routes uploaded from the computer. The second is dubbed the "Dude, where's my car?" feature by fellow blogger "Jake." It marks a location when you take the nüvi out of the cradle so when you're walking back to the car after a trip to the mall, it can locate your car for you if you can't remember where you parked. Two very useful functions, if you ask me. 

I'll be going over all of those features and any others you wish to see in future installments of Chet's Corner. For now, here are some teaser screen shots!

Comments

[Desmond Lechner - O.M.E.]

I recently and deliberately chose & bought the Garmin Nuvi 650, by crossing the border to get it, for it was cheaper! I have it hooked up next to my other current screen, the Tommy 910. Comparing both 3-D displays and real time feedbacks, I am impressed at the lighting but less enthusiastic on the speaker volume/capacity of the 650. However, I found the easy& friendly use being less cumbersome than the Tommy 910. I bought this with a pre loaded map of Europe and with the extra SD card slot, allows me to insert other maps like Asian countries and that is my purpose of having this choice on my coming 3rd honeymoon holiday which the Hertz rental SUVs in Thailand does not provide. Can't afford to get LOST in Paradiseland for the next 3,5 weeks, a Nuvi 650 is my choice for the overseas trip!!!

[David C. Lambert]

I recently used my first GPS unit while renting from AVIS on a business trip. I was one of those guys, "GPS, I don't need no stinking GPS". But now I am hooked. It took me directly to my hotel, restaurant and brother-in-law's home 50 miles away (and back) through heavy big city traffic without a hitch. I recently ordered your new (not yet released) Nuvi 760. Using a Garmin GPS sells itself.
How does one become a consumer tester? I love your product!

[David C. Lambert]

The Nuvi 680, which the Nuvi 760 is suppose to be an upgrade to, includes a MSN Direct receiver in the package. I want the Nuvi 760 but it appears to have less included amenities such as the MSN receiver? Is there a plan to change this? There is not that much more of an incentive when you have to tack on $125 more to the price for the MSN receiver (just to see if you like MSN or not). Thanks

[Marcus R]

It's kind of sad to see the boaring interface on the products. Take notes from Apple please, more interaction!

[Jeff Carpenter]

These look great. So frustrating though that XM functionality hasn't been brought into the NUVI line yet. The combination of Garmin / XM is the perfect road warrior solution. I keep hoping we will see this soon.