The Garmin navigation devices that consumers could have pre-ordered by the fall Radio Show are now on store shelves. IBiquity Digital’s Steven Baldacci tells Radio World the Garmin’s nuvi 3490LMT is receiving national distribution for the holidays at all major retailers.
Navteq is providing real-time traffic to the device. Traffic data is delivered as part of the signals from some 3,400 FM HD Radio stations, according to the company.
Navteq says it can deliver traffic updates about every 30 seconds, which it says is several times faster than competitors’ personal navigation devices.
Garmin VP Worldwide Sales Dan Bartel says, “Our new digital traffic technology powered by Navteq not only offers the highest quality map experience but can also tell drivers which areas to avoid and how to navigate around any congestion even faster than before.”
Navteq Traffic over HD Radio is included with the Garmin nuvi 3490LMT, and is also compatible with other selected nuvi devices using the aftermarket Garmin GTM 60 adapter, which is sold separately.
