Digital Trends

TomTom ONE XL S May 15th, 2008 | by Josh Norem

Features and Design

The ONE XL S features a 4.3” widescreen display with a resolution of 480x272. It connects to both a PC and a Mac using USB, and the cable that goes to your car’s AC charger is USB as well. It includes 1GB of internal memory, and sports an SD slot that can be used if you want to download additional maps. It includes both a windshield mount as well as an adhesive disc for mounting on your car’s dashboard.

By default it includes maps of the US, Canada, Puerto Rico and Guam. You can download additional maps but you’ll have to pay a fee for them. For example, a map of Eastern Europe costs $79.95 USD. Downloading maps and updates are done through the TomTom Home software, which runs on your computer. It lets you update the device, add new points of interest, download new voices and map colors and lots of other forms of content.

For navigation it supports text-to-speech, which allows the chosen voice to read street names instead of just saying “turn left.” It does not support voice commands like the GO 920 series, but offers the standard ability to tap in addresses, plan itineraries, save favorites and establish a “home” address. It also features TomTom’s Map Share services, which lets you download updated maps from the TomTom community of users. You can also make changes to your own maps and upload them as well, if you feel like helping others out.

It also includes a unique “Help me!” feature that can provide directions and assistance in the event of an emergency. It includes options to phone for help, drive to help, or walk to help, as well as first aid guides in case you need to provide medical assistance.

Bluetooth is also supported, but not for calling. It’s primarily for sending text messages to other XL owners, and for providing a conduit through which optional TomTom services can be uploaded to the device, such as weather and traffic data.

The unit includes a rechargeable 2-hour battery, a one year warranty and does not require any subscriptions for services out-of-the-box whatsoever.

Image Courtesy of TomTom