Pioneer AVIC-S2 GPS device

Pioneer announced the AVIC-S2 GPS navigation device. The Pioneer AVIC-S2 has a 3.5-inch LCD display, Bluetooth, integrated MP3 player. It has preloaded with TeleAtlas maps with 1.7 million POIs on a 1GB SD card.

It is expected to be available later this month and priced at $399.

Press Release:
Pioneer AVIC-S2 GPS Navigation System Steers Consumers in the Right Direction

LONG BEACH, Calif.–(BUSINESS WIRE)–Pioneer today introduces the compact AVIC-S2, a powerful, yet simple, on-the-go GPS navigation system that offers advanced route guidance and the hottest bonus features including MP3 playback and Bluetooth® compatibility.

“The AVIC-S2 is the ideal travel companion. Consumers get three of the best features they look for in a portable device; a full navigation system, MP3 playback, and Bluetooth hands-free,” said Karen Rubin, director of marketing and product planning for navigation products at Pioneer Electronics (USA) Inc.

Profile: In a package equivalent to the size of a wallet (approx. 3.5” X 4” X 0.7”), users get map coverage of the entire U.S. and Canada along with 1.7 million restaurants, shopping centers and other points of interest via the TeleAtlas database preloaded in the included 1 GB SD card. A built-in SiRF Star III GPS module and antenna make the system more accurate so drivers get where they need to go without stopping to ask for directions.

The 3.5-inch touch panel provides a colorful and easy to read map. Innovative graphical user interface and 2D and 3D view modes give users a clear understanding of expected turns and exits. Furthermore, advanced map compression technology allows for effortless scroll and zoom of the map.

On each trip, the system presents a route overview and allows users to change the route itinerary. This is particularly helpful when the user wants to avoid certain roads or areas.

Helpful Extras: The AVIC-S2 has Bluetooth v1.2 technology, enabling hands-free operation of cell phones. Users with Bluetooth-enabled phones can store their contacts in the system and make and receive calls through the AVIC-S2’s built-in speaker, microphone and touch screen, eliminating the need to pull the phone out of a pocket or purse to make a call.

It also functions as an audio player. MP3 music files stored on an SD card can be plugged directly to the side of the unit. The system displays all music information and let users customize their sound through its built-in 10-band equalizer with presets for 10 different genres of music.

The AVIC-S2 is available for a suggested price of $399 beginning late April ‘07.

Pioneer’s Mobile Entertainment Division creates car stereo gear for music lovers who are looking for style and substance. It is the leading manufacturer of GPS navigation, audio and video for hip cars and trucks. Check it out at www.pioneerelectronics.com.

[BusinessWire] via [Engadget]