Garmin Launches “Smartphone Link” App for Android Phones

Garmin has just announced the availability of “Smartphone Link” application for Android devices. The software creates a smooth experience between a compatible Garmin personal navigator and an Android smartphone.

The application is compatible with all Bluetooth enabled 2012 Garmin devices including nüvi 2475LT, 2495LMT, 2595LMT, 3490LMT and 3590LMT. However, Garmin stated that all these nüvi models, except the nüvi 3590LMT, require a software update, which is available here.

With “Smartphone Link” users will be able to communicate and share data obtained from the Garmin personal navigation device (PND) via the Android smartphone. 

In addition, the application allows nüvi users to add live services, including traffic information, traffic camera images, weather and fuel prices. 

“Garmin Smartphone Link solves the problem of having to pay for an extra data plan to use live services on a PND by utilizing the existing connection of a smartphone. It is a great example of how smartphone apps can complement navigation devices, which offer key benefits such as bigger screens and better GPS reception,” said Dan Bartel, Garmin's vice president of worldwide sales. 

Although the “Smartphone Link” is offered for free in the Android Market, it only includes several free live services, as premium content requires customers to pay a certain yearly fee. 

Among the free connected services offered by “Smartphone Link”, users can take advantage of live weather information and myGarmin messaging.

For Premium Live Services, customers can choose from the following options: Live Traffic ($19.99 per year), photoLive traffic cameras ($9.99 per year), Fuel Prices ($9.99 per year), and Advanced Weather ($4.99 per year).

Aside Garmin Live Services, the application also allows users to share their favorite locations with the phone. 

According to Garmin, the premium version of the personal navigator device is expected to be available in spring 2012.

“Smartphone Link” is now available as a free download via Android Market and is fully compatible with all devices running Android 2.1 and up.

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