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Apple Begins Shipping TomTom Car Kit in U.S.

Several U.S. MacRumors readers have reported that Apple has begun shipping the TomTom iPhone car kit, which finally appeared in the company's U.S. online store several weeks ago. The kit, which is priced at $119.95 and does not include the navigation application, offers an iPhone mount with integrated GPS receiver for improved performance, hands-free calling, and a built-in speaker for clearer spoken directions.

A few European customers had been able to get their hands on the kit at Apple's brick-and-mortar stores, although supplies there now appear to be tight with shipping windows currently set at 4-6 weeks compared to the 2-3 week window in the U.S. for new orders.

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Posted: 30 months ago
I just wish the way it was mounted was better, not just glue.
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Posted: 30 months ago
I got mine yesterday and LOVE it. Navigon app + TomTom car kit = win.
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Posted: 30 months ago
:eek: $119.00 for a mount without the software? They must be real proud of that!
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Posted: 30 months ago

I just wish the way it was mounted was better, not just glue.


Ummm... It's not just glue. It uses the same suction mount as their other units. I think there is an adhesive disk you can use as well. (Not sure if you stick that to where you want to me able to mount it with suction or exactly how that works.)

I've used a similar type of suction mount with Griffin's Window Seat. It's not just a simple suction cup. You place it where you want to put it, then turn another part to increase the suction. It sticks great to glass, be it the windshield, a side window, or the sunroof (for kids to watch in the back seat), for days at a time. The Window Seat isn't the best implementation of it - I understand that TomTom's is better (easier to attach and detach).
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Posted: 30 months ago

I got mine yesterday and LOVE it. Navigon app + TomTom car kit = win.


So does the Navigon app actually uses the Tom Tom's GPS chip, or is the Tom Tom just a window mount when used with another navigation app? I would like to know this.
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Posted: 30 months ago
Yes, Since the gps/speaker are connected via bluetooth, they work independently from the tom tom app. Even google maps is faster.
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Posted: 30 months ago
Does anyone know if the Apple Stores are starting to receive the Car Kit?

Thank you.
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Posted: 30 months ago
Oh - BTW - Anyone know if they are planning to stock them in Apple stores?

As for the price - everyone complains that it is too expensive for "a mount". But, it's not just a mount. A simple mount wouldn't be worth more than about $30. It's got a GPS chip in it that is similar in quality to a standalone units GPS chip, plus a speaker (the built-in speaker isn't loud or clear enough) and a mic. I understand the enhanced GPS chip is accessed via Bluetooth, so other GPS programs can use it instead of the on-board GPS chip. It can serve as a handsfree speakerphone, so no need to buy a car kit if your car doesn't support Bluetooth (mine don't).

All together, I honestly do think this price tag is a little high - it would be more reasonable at $99, but I'm still thinking seriously about getting one.
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Posted: 30 months ago
DOH - Not sure how this double posted - I wrote it and after submitting it I had to sign back in. Looks like my session timed out...
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Posted: 30 months ago
lol $120.
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