Mini user-review: TomTom GO 710

The new 710 offers a lot of improvements on its predecessor, the GO 700. It still comes pre-loaded with street-level maps of the UK and Western Europe, but the 710 also boasts full speed-camera databases for all the countries as well. Just in case you missed that, that is all of the speed cameras in Western Europe on one updatable database on an SD card. Before I even started testing the device I was excited, and I'm only a little ashamed to say it.

Screen

The GO 710 still has full post-code support for the UK and Republic of Ireland, letting you navigate from your driveway right to your destination's front door. Probably the fist new feature that you see is the new wide-screen, letting you view more of the map around you as you navigate. You'll be glad to know, however, that despite the bigger screen (the first true 16:9 screen in the world of personal GPS devices), the unit is smaller than the old style GOs. The screen's glare-free design means you can view it even in direct sunlight. There is also a light sensor on the top of the unit, which automatically adjusts the screen brightness or switches to night view automatically, handy if you're in and out of tunnels for instance as you'll always have the best view possible.

The improved GPS antenna on the 710 allows for better navigation even in built-up areas, and with the updated software it's even easier to plan your routes before you go, whether you are going straight from A-to-B or with lots of stops along the way. The buttons have grown with the screen size, making it even easier to input the information using your finger, and you can even use them while wearing gloves.

Plug & GO

The GO 710 really belongs in the best-selling GO range, featuring the best of the classic characteristics. For a start it's got that plug&play action. Even if you've never used GPS before, TomTom go out of their way to make it as easy as possible to get you on your way quickly. Plug it in, turn it on, watch the demo and off you go. There are on-screen tips to help you get the most out of the functions and the intuitive menu system is easy to find your way around.

Goodies

Another addition to the new line of GOs is an external microphone in the box. When you add to this the Bluetooth connectivity, the GO 710 is perfect for hands-free calling. You can control the call via the GO's touchscreen, keeping your eyes on the road at all times. Although the cable is sold separately, the GO 710 is also iPOD compatible, allowing you to play MP3s through the GO, and control your iPOD through the touchscreen. TomTom have been careful to make sure users keep safe, however, and your music will pause during spoken instructions. This is annoying at first, but having used GPS before while listening to the radio, I still think it's better than shouting "What?!" at the little box, praying it will repeat itself before I get to the round-about!
One of the goodies that comes with all the products in the new GO range is the HOME dock. This little cradle allows you to connect easily to your PC via USB for software updates and content management of your GO.