Yes, just like we keep estimating, PNDs are now converging with smartphones even more and the evidence is right here. Though a personal navigation device, this new model from Garmin is the next step in the evolution of GPS gadgets, which will unfortunately lead to their extinction, leaving the smartphone as the one and only superior portable device. Seems like the missing link, honestly.

How is this PND converging with smartphones? Well, it has a 3-megapixel geo tag-capable camera, a 3.5 inch anti-glare resistive touchscreen and comes equipped with wireless connectivity technology, which you can use for sending emails. This device understands Microsoft Office documents and JPGs. It even looks very similar to Garminfones and has an accelerometer.

Now, for its navigation skills, as this is its main feature after all, the nuvi 295W comes with Garmin's impressive 6 million POIs available on City Navigator NT street maps for the U.S. and Canada. When removed from your car, the Garmin Locate service automatically marks the location of your vehicle so that you never lose it in large parking lots again. The most popular software you will find on the nuvi 295W is probably Google Local Search, because it lets you find all sorts of information while on the go.

There is also the Garmin Connect Photos application that enables you download pictures whenever in a wireless hotspot and from there, navigate to the respective locations. Now, another feature that reminds me of a smartphone is the support of microSD cards (they don't say how large). The nuvi 295W costs $279.99 and besides what I've already told you, you'll also get the whole MP3, calendar etc., package you find on most mobile phones. Congratulations, Garmin, you have officially killed the GPS systems. Via engadget.




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