Driving Directions

One of the problems facing GPS makers is how to make maps that drivers can use while paying attention to the road rather than the screen. One answer was audible directions, but as it happens, telling people to turn left at Third Avenue isn’t much better – people lose sight of the road when they strain to read street signs.

Garmin’s Nuvi changes that with an improvement that has been in the works for years: audible directions that rely on visible landmarks, mimicking the directions an actual person might give. Instead of saying, “turn left at Third Street,” Garmin’s new system will say, “turn left at the stop sign,” or, “turn left after the Starbucks.” The feature, called “Garmin Real Directions,” will be on six models ranging in price from $200 to $380.

Of course, relying on landmarks will require some vigilance; not all of them are permanent. It is probably not a good idea to choose a shop, for instance, which is likely to change. Better to choose the building the shop is in, or a nearby statue. The directions will be updated “seasonally,” said Garmin.