Prospective GPS customers beware

Johannesburg, 07 Sept 2007

GPS navigation systems are becoming more affordable; however, retailers misinform clients of the cost involved in keeping their devices updated with the latest information, according to PDAShop.co.za.

Regional manager Kun-cheng Tu says: "There are many sales people that don't reveal the cost of upgrading their software and hardware - especially in cases where the software cannot be upgraded and clients need to purchase new hardware."

Most people only realise the cost of upgrading after the first year. "With all the road changes, which change between 10% and 15% each year, many devices become outdated and often vendors do not supply the map update service. It is essential to know who can provide support in future."

Kun-cheng says customers should follow a set of guidelines when purchasing a GPS navigation system: "Identify your needs. Do you want to use the GPS to navigate between cities or for off-road as well?" Many devices do not navigate off main roads to waypoints, he adds.

Kun-cheng says buyers need to look for a local software vendor. "There are only two to three companies in SA that can provide comprehensive map coverage. One must still be cautious."

He warns customers to check that companies provide free map updates. "Even when the sales person says they do supply free map updates, ask them to commit to paper. One must actually question how long you can receive free updates, and how regularly these are available."

Finally, Kun-cheng says understanding the hardware is essential. "There are two types of hardware, one is Windows-based and the other is a proprietary format. The largest consumer-based navigation system sold worldwide is Windows-based."

Maction Technologies is an international software company with a local office in SA. Kun-cheng says the company provides coverage of southern Africa, including six countries, with free map updates twice a year.

He says HandyMAP has localised language options, including Afrikaans, Zulu and Xhosa. According to Kun-cheng, anyone purchasing a HandyMAP-supported GPS can purchase HandyMAP for R600 (VAT inclusive) and will receive new product upgrades every year.