Company: Pharos Science & Applications, Inc.
Industry: PDA Applications, GPS, Location Technology
Location: Torrance, CA, United States of America
New "Streets & Trips 2005 with GPS Locator" enables
laptops with real-time satellite location capability
TORRANCE, Calif. -- Pharos Science & Applications Inc., the
premier provider of portable GPS satellite navigation technology and location-based
services, has announced a supply agreement with Microsoft Corp. Pharos
will supply an advanced Global Positioning System receiver/antenna to be
combined with the latest version of Microsoft's best-selling mapping and
travel planning software for the U.S. and Canada.
The new Streets & Trips 2005 with GPS Locator gives laptop users
a real-time GPS solution, as well as a comprehensive array of maps, driving
directions, and points of interest, to help them make the most of their
local or long-distance trips. By connecting the GPS receiver via a USB
port on their notebook computers, consumers who use Streets & Trips
2005 with GPS Locator can know exactly where they are and where they are
headed at all times.
The unique modular design of the Pharos GPS receiver also allows users
to connect via CompactFlash, PCMCIA slot, serial port or Bluetooth(TM)
wireless capability, using optional accessories from Pharos.
The addition of the GPS receiver, and the new advanced GPS features,
expands the utility of the Streets & Trips 2005 software, which also
includes important and timely features for trip planning and fuel management
- a valuable addition with the rising costs of gas. Enhanced GPS support,
accurate and up-to-date mapping data, options for customization and Pocket
Streets for Smartphone are also included at no additional cost. These tools
allow consumers to plan a trip based on their specific preferences and
needs, enabling them to spend more time enjoying their journey and less
time stressing about the logistics.
"With digital maps, a vast points-of-interest library, intelligent route
calculation and driving directions, Streets & Trips has been a beneficial
resource for travelers and the top choice among consumers. Now, with Pharos'
advanced GPS receiver, based on SiRF/StarII-LP architecture, the Streets
& Trips 2005 with GPS Locator is an even more valuable tool for guiding
Microsoft customers where they want to go," notes Pharos President James
Oyang, Ph.D.
"Until now, GPS tracking wasn't affordable for everyone," said Danielle
Damasius, product manager for the Microsoft Streets & Trips product
line. "This year's version of Streets & Trips with GPS Locator gives
people the benefits of GPS at a reasonable price, making it easy for everyone
to hit the road with confidence."
Microsoft Streets & Trips 2005 with GPS Locator is scheduled for
availability in late August 2004 for an estimated retail price of $129
(U.S.). Microsoft Streets & Trips 2005 (standard) will also be available
in late August 2004 for an estimated retail price of $39.95 (U.S.).
About Microsoft Home Retail Division
Microsoft Home Retail Division (HRD) is a leading publisher of home
software for the PC. Celebrating Microsoft's 20 years of delivering products
that help consumers accomplish and enjoy everyday tasks, HRD brings consumers
Microsoft Encarta, the industry's best-selling encyclopedia brand(1);
Microsoft Digital Image products, which combine advanced photo-editing
features and unmatched organizational tools with unparalleled ease of use;
Microsoft Money, easy-to-use personal finance management software; Streets
& Trips, Microsoft's all-in-one mapping solution with points of interest,
routes, driving directions and Pocket PC compatibility in one value-priced
software package; and Microsoft Works Suite, the best-selling(2)
integrated home productivity software that offers six of the latest essential
home software titles in one package for tremendous value. Used with the
MSN network of Internet services, these products have a unique depth and
mobility that allow users to take their PC experience even further. More
information about the Home Retail Division product lineup is available
at www.microsoft.com/discover/.
About Microsoft
Founded in 1975, Microsoft (Nasdaq "MSFT") is the worldwide leader in
software, services and solutions that help people and businesses realize
their full potential.
About Pharos
Pharos Science & Applications Inc. is a leading provider of portable
GPS navigation and Internet-accessible location-based services for a variety
of markets. Pharos is a charter member of Microsoft's Mobility Partner
Advisory Council, a Qualcomm BREW Elite Developer, and a member of ITS
America and CTIA. The company's products are sold through a network of
leading national retail locations and online stores including CompUSA,
Dell.com, Fry's Electronics, Toshiba, Amazon.com, SkyMall, MobilePlanet,
Buy.com and others. Additionally, Pharos' Ostia mobility software drives
the routing calculation and guidance capabilities for a variety of other
manufacturers' vehicle navigation products. For more information, visit
www.pharosgps.com.
(1) The NPD Group/NPD Techworld, October 1998-May 2004, based
on total U.S. retail sales
(2) The NPD Group/NPD Techworld, October 1998-May 2004, based
on total U.S. retail sales
Jim White (jim.white@pharos-inc.com)
Phone: 626-840-3796
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