Sony’s new line of nav-u personal navigation devices makes traveling by Global Positioning Systems (GPS) a lot safer. The NV-U81T and NV-U80 will both feature “POSITION PLUS” technology, which is designed to provide information when a GPS has bad reception. POSITION PLUS is designed to provide accurate positioning and route information in the event of passing under a bridge, between tall buildings, or any other situation where GPS devices have been known to freeze their screens.

The unit has a 4.3 inch widescreen LCD display to show a wonderful, colorful map. These nav-u systems are very user-friendly, with easy to use “Gesture Command” buttons and icons. The touchscreen allows you to find the nearest gas station, or to plot a quick way home. All of these features are designed to insure safety and to make certain the driver’s attention is where it needs to be: on the road.

Safety is also important with the Bluetooth feature. With any Bluetooth capable mobile phone, you can make hands-free calls on the nav-u. For example, one feature requires a quick hand-gesture in order to dial home. The nav-u also allows you to dial any number in the phonebook via keyboard, but it’s preferred that it be done when the car is stopped or by a passenger.

The NV-U81T has a full map of Europe on a 4GB hard disk drive, and supports the Traffic Message Channel Information. The NV-U80 has a country-specific map in its 512MB memory, and the Traffic Message Channel Information is an optional feature. Both units have a Dynamic Route Information to present information about a route, including fuel stations and Points of Interest (POI).

The release date for both the NV-U81T and NV-U80 should be available in November 2006 all over Europe. No news on the price, or if American models will be shipped overseas.