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Sony Launches Three Linux-based In-car Navigation Devices
An anonymous reader writes "Sony has introduced three Linux-based in-car navigation and entertainment devices in Japan today. The NV-XYZ 33, 55, and 77 feature 3D map navigation technology, media players, hard drives, GPS, and PC connectivity. They are based on MIPS processors and a Linux 2.4-series kernel. They also appear to use a GateKeeper copy protection scheme, which may prevent them from being used with Linux desktops and normal media files." Still, the 3-D representations of actual buildings on the maps is pretty impressive.
oops, http://www.antarcti.ca/ is the actual address.
According to the article's image, this 3D approach has two advantages - advertising and landmark spotting.
Since human is good at recognizing patterns and objects, a 3D image of a building/landmark will greatly improve your chance of making that critical turn.
Rock that crushes, Paper & Scissors that don't matter.
Dashwerks is about to release our flagship telematics server. It's a very similar product, however, ours originates in (and is) open-source. It's been seen on here before (back in 2001).
Don't think that a small group of dedicated individuals can't change the world. It's the only thing that ever has.
Adobe Systems on Thursday said Sony has agreed to support Adobe's PDF document format and the Linux version of its reader software in the consumer electronics company's car navigation system.
The Adobe technologies will be embedded in the Sony HDD AV Navi XYZ system, which is available only in Japan. The system will give drivers access to tourist books, maps, and other content delivered over the Internet.
Adobe, based in San Jose, Calif., claims to have distributed more than a half-a-billion copies of its PDF reader to date. The software is used on numerous desktop and mobile device operating systems and platforms, including Windows, Mac OS, UNIX, Linux, Palm OS, Pocket PC and Symbian OS.
every day http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Special:Random
VICS supplies real-time traffic congestion, accident and time-to-destination information through roadside or overhead radio beacons dotted all over major roads. VICS-aware navigation systems can then automatically re-route around problem areas.
Apart from the very cute display, Sony is playing catch-up here, though the home cradle is nice: maps can be updated via an internet service that starts in July.
Some systems receive traffic updates via PHS and cellphones in addition to, or instead of, radio. Subscription services provide frequently updated information on speed cameras, mobile speed traps and other inconveniences.
VICS.
Well I don't know about other countries, but in Australia it's illegal to operate a mobile phone while driving (unless it's hands-free), and I believe it's also illegal to have a TV or similar device in a car in view of the driver (ie. they can be in the headrests for the back passengers).
The ability to watch TV on these devices is going to cause some serious legal issues if they ever take off here (unlikely).
Homonyms are fun!
You're driving your car, but they're riding their bikes there.
For people living in and around Tokyo, a car itself is a luxury-- just as it would be for someone in Manhattan. You cannot buy a car without proof of parking space (usually $200-400/month).
With that market, expensive add-ons to pimp out your ride are very appealing. Those who go to the trouble to own a car (when you really don't need one in the city) are obviously very into that car as a status symbol. Combined with the absolute need for mapping systems (the grid is purposefully convoluted), and Sony should see some good sales.
No one here uses CD players in cars-- they all use MD players, but are quickly moving to HDDs that interface with their iPODs. DVDs are a nice way to spend the time while waiting in traffic or waiting for friends to arrive (I usually wait 30 minutes somewhere when meeting friends).
davejenkins.com |
Sorry to disapoint you but we already have :)
here
Download available here:
X YZ 77_XYZ55_XYZ33.html
http://www.sony.net/Products/Linux/Download/NV-
Quidquid latine dictum sit altum viditur