As laptops get cheaper and faster with each passing month, manufacturers are branching out the feature sets on their notebooks. Case in point: the Toshiba Qosimo F55, a Windows machine that, in addition to being a sleek little notebook with a 15.4-inch screen, happens to includes a Garmin GPS.
Why would you want GPS in a laptop? That's a fair question, and one that doesn't have a super-clear answer. I don't think it's really intended as a substitute for an in-dash unit — seems silly to have an open laptop in the passenger seat giving you turn-by-turn directions. No, it would be more useful as a travel aid when you don't have a car — stuck in a bus or cab, with no idea where the closest curry place is.
Anyone have any particular use for a GPS laptop? Let us know in the comments.
Via Toshiba
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By Pariah at 1:29 PM ON 06/17/08
I has a integrated computer in my car so this is not a bad idea.
By DanTGF at 4:44 PM ON 06/17/08
I sell GPS navigators, and you'd be surprised at how many people I get looking for a laptop computer that has GPS in it.
Most of those that want it seem to be couriers or truck drivers, that want everything in the one unit, and with a screen that is much larger that those available on the regular units (maybe they have vision issues, I don't know)
By Macinta at 5:17 PM ON 06/17/08
I'll say it again... GEOCACHING!!! This would be GREAT... pair that with some sort of wireless broadband access and you could log your finds from ground zero.
Actually, I also drive a route truck and it sure would be nice to have an all in one unit for tracking data and being able to look up new locations or sales leads!
By jredville at 8:31 PM ON 06/17/08
My dad does actually drive around with his laptop+external gps+MS Streets and Trips open. He consults and is in new cities all the time.
By Laptop GPS World at 8:38 PM ON 06/17/08
Yes, there are actually very many people using GPS on their laptop computers. As DANTGF above said, it is in many cases professional drivers who do need laptops for their work anyway, and they decide to use those laptops even for navigation.
By Jason at 10:01 PM ON 06/17/08
I have used the Microsoft Street Trips for 3 years now on my laptop. It gives turn by turn audio directions like an indash. It also offers up to date traffic with a fee. It is better when you have someone beside you telling you where to go. It is a perfect alternative for the more expensive ones that are incredibly high priced.
By Seth at 11:26 PM ON 06/17/08
My Crews for Ultra-Marathon bike races, some of which go across the country. He has several Gps/laptop combinations that he uses for these. The bigger screen allows you to have a more detailed map, which is useful for finding out how to get to a gas station, fuel up, and meet the rider somewhere.
By zeroic at 8:45 AM ON 06/19/08
How about keeping the laptop's lid closed down and just plugging it to a small external ~8" screen on your dashboard?
By Paul at 10:15 PM ON 07/23/08
Truckers
By dts77 at 10:53 AM ON 08/25/08
I agree with ZEROIC being able to connect a small screen or bluetooth to your phone the maps with the laptop closed. this way you don't have to look down, keeping your eyes on the road.
By Dan851 at 2:42 PM ON 08/25/08
This is an excellent idea if the voice guidance is simple and accurate.
Access to Internet is now easy in every place and holding a laptop in the car will be increasing over time Thus including a GPS as well is good idea.
By Sudhanshu at 7:32 AM ON 10/19/08
Hi,
GPS in laptop is good idea. Alongwith GPS, I also need a mobile phone in my laptop. I don't want to carry a mobile phone. I want to carry a 12.1" laptop instead. GPS will help me as GPS. When laptop has battery, screen, keypad, I just need internal hardware of mobile phone.
I know, you will ask about battery! Car charger and an additional battery will suffice the need.