GPS navigators are extremely useful devices, as they allow their users to safely reach their destination while taking the shortest and quickest path there. However, they do have a problem, namely the price tag, which, at least in certain parts of the world (the Eastern European Ex-Communist states, for example), really deters the customers from purchasing said PNDs. And in an attempt to provide a solution for this niche market, electronic products manufacturer Prestigio Technologies has launched the GeoVision 350 GPS Navigator, a device that provides basic navigation features, comparable to the entry-level/mid range devices coming from such household names as Garmin, Magellan or TomTom.

Thus, the device features voice-prompted, auto-routable, turn-by-turn road navigation with swift automatic off-route and detour recalculation. The whole device is built around a SiRF Star III GPS chipset (like most other PNDs available on the market) and also sports an Intel 300 MHz processor, required for running the navigation applications, as well as the Windows CE 4.2 OS (curiously enough, the manufacturer has chosen an older OS).

The GeoVision 350 also sports a 1 GB built-in flash memory module and incorporates a 3.5-inch touch-screen TFT display (320x240 pixels), which is quite easy to read in any lighting conditions. Moreover, the whole thing is powered by a rechargeable internal lithium-ion battery that provides up to 3 hours of use.

The unit ships with preinstalled detailed maps of Western/Eastern Europe/Russia including millions points of interest like hotels, restaurants, gas stations, ATMs and attractions. These pan-regional maps enable users to travel easily across borders without the need to change the software and the unit also provides precise voice guidance in 26 languages, in order to cater for the needs of all the possible customers in the region.

"The GeoVision 350 offers a universal combination of advanced navigation features packed into one compact unit," said Martin Zeman, Prestigio's General Manager for Central and Eastern Europe. "The unit is very easy to operate, and any computer user will find the icon-based menu familiar and easy to understand. From motorists to hikers, the Prestigio GeoVision 350 is ideal for people who desire to experience the benefits of effortless GPS navigation"

No word on the price or actual availability for now, but, in any case, the GeoVision 350 will be less expensive than its more famous counterparts (because that would be the only way in which this thing can enjoy at least an OK level of success).

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