TomTom's Overpriced iPhone Car Kit Now Available In USA

At this point, there are a number of GPS applications available in the App Store. Without a doubt, the iPhone has the most full-featured GPS options out there in the smartphone arena, though it seems as if the TomTom TomTom app is the one getting the most attention. Regardless of whether or not it's superior to the others, it is the one with an incredibly expensive add-on, and that very add-on is now available in the United States.

The price tag? $119.95, and just to remind you, that's only for the hardware. In other words, you'll still be stuck paying $99 for the software, so at the end of the day, you're out over $200 for the complete package. Call us crazy, but we're pretty sure dedicated TomTom and Garmin GPS units are selling right now for under $200, and we're guessing they're a lot better than some app on a cellphone. In fact, the TomTom GPS app has a tough time juggling calls and routing (you can't talk while routing at all, in fact), so if that would bother you, you should probably look elsewhere.

The $120, you essentially get a suction-cup holster that holds your iPhone and routes power to it, and it also adds a built-in speaker to get those turn-by-turn directions to be louder. We can't say we think it's really worth the asking price, but if you disagree you can order it now directly from Apple.

TomTom Car Kit features

Secure docking

TomTom's specially designed, award-winning EasyPort mount attaches your iPhone securely to your windscreen or dashboard - perfectly within reach. It lets you rotate the screen for widescreen route display. And it folds flat for easy moves from car to car.

Enhanced GPS performance

The TomTom car kit's built-in receiver increases the GPS performance of your iPhone to give you a truly reliable signal - even in high-rise urban areas.

Clear voice instructions

With the built-in volume controls and superior speaker, you'll hear every voice instruction loud and clear - so you'll never miss a thing.

Easy charging

Dock your iPhone 3GS in the mount to charge it as you drive, so it's always fully charged and ready to go.

Hands-free calling

Receive calls without taking your eyes off the road, using the built-in extra-sensitive microphone and speaker. And the app automatically starts navigating again as soon as the call ends.

Your music on the move

With the audio out connector you can play all your favorite songs through your car's audio system with the optional audio cable*. It even fades music out when receiving calls and giving directions.

* Requires compatible car audio system

Technical specifications

• Audio out: 3.5 mm
• Volume control: Yes
• Portrait/Landscape support: Yes
• Windscreen and dashboard mounting: Yes
• iPhone charging via CLA: Yes
• Dimensions: 5.17 x 2.7 x 1.96 in./131.43 x 68.68 x 49.86 mm
• Weight: 4.13 oz./117 g