Pioneer's new "hybrid" GPS device integrates with portable media players and features some advanced speech recognition technology.
We're not sure exactly what makes the Pioneer AVIC-F500BT a "hybrid" device, since it doesn't permanently reside in your dashboard and you can take it with you to use as a standalone GPS. But, we were impressed by the device's slick interface, and it has some good integration options and nice speech recognition features.
First, the basics. The AVIC-F500BT has a 5.8-inch WVGA touch screen. It acts as a GPS unit, with millions of points of interest in its database. It can also control an iPod or other digital media player, thanks to a built-in USB connector. Bluetooth and an SD card slot provide further connectivity and memory expansion. You can even buy a rear-view camera for the device so you can keep an eye out for kiddies as you back up your car.
The new AVIC uses an "intent recognition" system, which basically means it cuts out all the "ummmms" and extraneous mumblings you may emit while asking the unit to play "Unskinny Bop." Unfortunately, the device only takes speech input for media playback and cell phone control over Bluetooth. So, you can ask the AVIC to call Mom, but you can't ask it to take you home.
Philip Berne, Matthew Ruiz, Edward Distel and Sindre Lia contribute to the CES 2008 coverage.
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