There are many benefits to a car navigation system, particularly since owning one significantly reduces your chances of getting lost. But in addition to that, a GPS also presents you with alternative routes to choose from to reach your destination. Whether you want to use the shortest distance, the quickest time, or a scenic route - the choice is yours to make. Some even provide real-time traffic information, showcasing routes you should avoid - and why - making your commute that much more of a breeze.
These days the types of navigation systems available are widespread. Some are equipped with Wi-Fi, others with CarPlay or Spotify. Some are even fully compatible with Android and Apple products. The list is endless - but definitely worth exploring. Let’s look at some different types:
Pioneer AVIC-5201NEX
This GPS features Apple CarPlay, giving users an incredibly intuitive way to make calls, use Maps, listen to music and access messages with either a word or a touch. If you think it’s only compatible with iPhones, think again. This system can be used with android phones if used with the correct interface cable (sold separately). By doing this, users will be able to access Pioneer’s free AppRadio application. This app will permit users to completely access the screen, control contacts, the calendar, maps, and so much more. The best thing about this is that the GPS is formatted and designed in a manner that makes it safe for in-vehicle operation.
GPS Mirror OEM Replacement
A neat thing about navigation systems is that some can be integrated into different parts of your vehicle. Take the GPS Mirror OEM Replacement for example: this GPS has been added to the rear-view mirror. In addition, if you wanted to add a reverse camera to the GPS mirror, you totally could! Beyond that, this particular model comes with a 4.3 inch colour touch screen, a built-in speaker, hands-free bluetooth kit, a software/data storage of 32G and a built-in 4G flash - among other things. Lastly the map provided by this model may be basic but the fact that it can be upgraded at an additional cost (if you even find it necessary to do so) is reason enough to check this device out.
Pioneer AVIC-W8600NEX 7.0”
This GPS is jam-packed with an incredible amount of features. Everything from a 7.0” WVGA Display with LED Backlight, touchscreen, multi-language display, colour customization, built-in bluetooth, iPhone and Android compatibility. Moreover, this GPS has a CD/DVD Player with built-in navigation, RGB input, time alignment, wired remote input, etc. The best integration apart from the cool features is the fact that this device can be used with Amazon Alexa, Siri, Google Assistant - as well as Pandora, Spotify, Sirius-XM, among many others. While its price may be steeper than the other GPS options, it's well worth the investment if you constantly find yourself in a car.
Of course the argument then becomes about whether navigation systems are worth it over smartphones. And while smartphones have a list of pros - they are also riddled with cons. To begin, smartphones can be a distraction. Unless you’ve invested in a mount, taking your eyes off the road to glance at your phone, or holding your device can put you in a compromising position. Another con is reaching your destination will depend heavily on how strong your cell phone reception is. If you lose cell coverage, you would not be able to access maps or continue following the directions. While you can always download offline maps, there are two reasons why it’s not a practical alternative. For starters, if you opt to do that, you may as well carry around a physical map and use it for guidance. And secondly, it simply isn’t the same thing. GPS comes with voice guidance, so your focus is hardly hindered from the road - while taking your eyes off the road to read a direction is not only inconvenient, it’s also risky behaviour. The last reason to not use a smartphone to guide you is simply because it drains smartphone battery life. Which is fine if you have a charging port in your car, or a portable charger. Having one or neither of these things can be an additional - and unnecessary - cost. Not to mention that carrying a portable charger means you’ll have to remember to charge that as well.
At Car Systems Installation (CSI), we know the importance of installing high quality car navigation systems so our customers can take a road trip with ease. With over 20 years of experience, our certified technicians will be able to recommend the best GPS fit for your vehicle as well as professionally install it for you. Give us a call at (416) 901-5812 and explore our wide selection today!