The iQue M5 joins Garmin’s Palm OS-based iQue 3200 and iQue 3600 models among the select group of commercially available mobile devices to feature integrated GPS alongside full PDA capabilities. Garmin gave no indication as to any future plans it has for Palm OS.
The system uses Garmin’s own GPS and mapping technology. Specifications are otherwise similar to most mid-range PDAs built around Windows Mobile Pocket PC 2003.
The expected price tag of $750 makes the iQue M5 significantly more expensive than its Palm OS-powered predecessors, which sell for below $600. The machine is expected to ship in the US this February. Garmin’s GPS 10 Bluetooth GPS unit will be available in January for about $270.
GPS has proved to be a major driver of PDA sales in recent times, while GPS itself has benefited from the availability of multi-purpose devices over dedicated terminals.
