TomTom navigation device will include real-time TripAdvisor reviews

A new portable navigation device from TomTom will provide real-time TripAdvisor reviews.

GPS navigation devices have changed the way many people get from point A to point B, but they typically don’t tell you much about your destination — or help you pick one. A new portable navigation device coming later this year from Netherlands-based TomTom, however, will include for the first time an app that incorporates real-time TripAdvisor reviews. Due for release in October, the connected TomTom Go Live 1535M device will combine road and traffic information from TomTom HD Traffic with travel-related apps including TripAdvisor as well as Yelp, Expedia and Twitter. Using those apps, users will be able to read restaurant reviews, find hotel availability or automatically tweet their arrival time without ever leaving the car, TomTom says; they’ll also have access to updated fuel prices, weather forecasts and Local Search. The new device will also offer Bluetooth hands-free calling, an integrated mount with flip screen and spoken street names. Pricing on the TomTom Go Live 1535M starts at USD 249; a free 12-month subscription of Live services will be available with each purchase. Users of the Go Live 2535M, meanwhile, will also be able to download the new apps to their existing device through a software update. What’s better than a guide to your next destination? Why, that would be help choosing the destination in the first place. No end to the power and ubiquity of transparency-enforcing user reviews!