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First Look: Dash unveils Internet-linked auto navigation systemToni McConnel San Diego, Ca. – At the DemoFall conference here, Dash Navigation Inc. took the wraps off what it claims is the first automotive navigation device that connects people to the Internet for access to necessary information vital to the operation of their automobiles. Called Dash Express, it leverages two-way Internet connectivity and a network of other Dash devices to provide commuters with the best routes based on current traffic conditions. In addition, the Dash Express uses the power of the Internet to provide drivers with relevant and timely information about destinations. Dash Network Traffic lets a driver select from up to three different routes to any destination based on accurate travel time forecasts for each route. This feature is powered by the network of Dash drivers who anonymously report their traffic conditions to other devices in the area. Each Dash device also comes pre-programmed with historic traffic flow data for all major roads, for every time and day of the year. By combining these two sources of information, Dash is able to accurately offer the best routes and forecast travel times. If a driver selects a route and traffic slows, Dash will recommend a faster alternative, if one is available. A car with Dash approaching heavy traffic on a freeway will know whether it would be faster to exit or continue on the current route. While other personal navigation devices can report traffic incidents, the Dash Express is the only device that gives commuters the up-to-date traffic flow information they need to make smart route choices. Dash Destination Search lets drivers search for locations and products using the power of the Internet. A Dash user can type "fajitas" to get a list of restaurants that serve fajitas in the area, pick one and get routed to it. Another Dash user who discovers that the local hardware store is out of something they need could type in "plumbing supplies" while in the parking lot and get a list of other stores in the area with routes to each store. Dash can even provide real-time information about possible destinations. For example, Dash users could potentially select a movie theater based on show times or choose a gas station based on current gas prices. Two-way connectivity with the Internet provides Dash users with a host of unique features. Dash Send to Car(TM) allows people to send an address from an Internet browser or Microsoft Outlook directly to the car, significantly simplifying address entry. According to Dash Navigation Chief Executive Officer Paul Lego, the Dash Express is also the only device on the market that automatically updates its maps and software over-the-air to ensure that driving directions are more up-to-date and that consumers have the latest product features. According to a recent C. J. Driscoll and Associates research study, out-of-date maps are the number one complaint of existing GPS owners. "Dash Network Traffic) is a revolutionary new way to tackle the growing traffic problem that most people in large cities face these days," said Creative Strategies Technology Analyst Tim Bajarin. "Unlike other GPS devices, the Dash device can actually calculate the fastest route to your destination based on up-to-the-minute traffic flow data on all possible routes, as well as constantly search for better routes based on the latest information while enroute, saving drivers considerable time and frustration." The Dash Express will be available from www.dash.net and select retailers in California in early 2007, and will be available nationally next summer. For more information about topics, issues and technologies mentioned in this story go to the flashing icon in the upper left corner on any page or go to the iAppliance Web Views page and call up the associatively-linked Java/XML-based Web map of the iApplianceWeb site. |
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