TomTom's 2535M is part of a new series of devices, offered by this independent navigation service, that has a unique feature built-in, instant road and traffic updates. Based on traffic information reported by its network of towers, the 2535M, looks at the route you have chosen from Point A to B and, if there are any slowdowns or traffic jams reported, updates your routing so that you skirt the traffic.
It is an interesting use of this system and in many ways is much like using a cellphone in that the 2535M listens to its radio system for any updates - it is updated every two minutes so any information you receive is no more than two minutes old - and if there is anything that needs to be changed the microprocessor controlling the 2535M updates the routing to reflect near-real-time road changes. (Unless you have fulltime access to the whole universe of low-orbiting satellites that make up the GPS system, this is about the best you'll find on the market now.)
In addition, the TomTom features Bluetooth technology. Like other Bluetooth pairing systems, you can pair up to 12 devices with your TomTom so that you can use hands-free technology to place your calls. Pairing a device is simple, you go into setup mode, activate Bluetooth searching or device pairing and you ensure that your cellphone's Bluetooth is also running. The synchronization should take no more than a minute or less and you're all set to go.
Most Bluetooth-supporting phones also support voice-command systems so that when you are using your phone in a standard manner or with an earpiece, for example, all you have to do is tap the earpiece twice and the phone will ask for a command. You can "Call Home" or "Call the Office" and the electronics do the rest of the work. The best part is that you never have to take your eyes off the road or your hands off the wheel.
TomTom devices have taken that one step further with WiFi or network-centric technology. Powered by the Android operating system, you have access to the full Google mapping suite as well as to Local Search, Yelp, TripAdvisor, Expedia and Twitter, so you can actually tweet as you travel cross-country. It's an interesting way to keep in touch with your friends.
This is possible due to the high-resolution display on the five-inch TomTom. About the only thing that you may not like is having extra cords running from your dash, but, unless you want to rely on the internal battery of the TomTom and its more useful limited life, you'll probably purchase a cradle and power cable. Fortunately, with today's USB devices (TomTom now supports USB), you also get charging as well as any information from services such as TomTom Map Share Services and the IQ Routes system that keeps your TomTom's routing and display updated.
Loaded with features, the TomTom 2535M is the latest in this manufacturer's line of intelligent location devices. It is very conveniently priced and the lifetime mapping updates are just an added incentive. Overall, we've used this device and have been pleased with it.