Almost everyone uses Google or Apple Maps nowadays if the head unit on their vehicle supports them. I can see a use case for older vehicles without a compatible head unit. Garmin really needs to update their UI as it looks exactly the same as when I last used a standalone GPS back in the early 2010s. I know, if it ain’t broke, but really, it hasn’t changed and it looks really old. I watched out of interest to see if there was any new features, but sadly not. As always, a thorough and thoughtful review that I always appreciate.
My wife's car as well as mine both are so old they don't have head units so if we want bigger screens for navigation something like this is a must. Also, I have a brother who refuse to get a smart phone and still uses a flip phone. For him this is still a need. I do agree that the fact that the UI has not been updated in decades leaves something to be desired. I did test Garmins new GPS dashcam combo and there were some small updates to the UI on that one. Thanks for watching.
Then, you havent driven to the remote area where has no cell services. I also use Google Map mostly. Yes, you can download offline map. However, these GPS devices are cheap nowaways and it is good to have it around if you happen to go a road trip or camping in a remote area.
For power when downloading you can use the UBS cable that comes with the package connect it to a UBS plug that goes into a household electrical outlet. Power at home not in the car!
Not all new cars have GPS. It depends on how much you can afford to pay for a car. Just bought a new car and to go to the level of cars that have GPS it would have cost me $8000 more!
USB to Mini USB Interface cable to connects your Garmin GPS to your PC to download Garmin drivesmart 55 software updates and to update garmin maps using Garmin Express and to sync with Garmin Connect. It notifies you when updates are available and helps you install them.
Almost everyone uses Google or Apple Maps nowadays if the head unit on their vehicle supports them. I can see a use case for older vehicles without a compatible head unit. Garmin really needs to update their UI as it looks exactly the same as when I last used a standalone GPS back in the early 2010s. I know, if it ain’t broke, but really, it hasn’t changed and it looks really old. I watched out of interest to see if there was any new features, but sadly not. As always, a thorough and thoughtful review that I always appreciate.
My wife's car as well as mine both are so old they don't have head units so if we want bigger screens for navigation something like this is a must. Also, I have a brother who refuse to get a smart phone and still uses a flip phone. For him this is still a need. I do agree that the fact that the UI has not been updated in decades leaves something to be desired. I did test Garmins new GPS dashcam combo and there were some small updates to the UI on that one. Thanks for watching.
Then, you havent driven to the remote area where has no cell services. I also use Google Map mostly. Yes, you can download offline map. However, these GPS devices are cheap nowaways and it is good to have it around if you happen to go a road trip or camping in a remote area.
@@oinkpiggin I like having it as a back up. I also like haveing my speed at eye level. I have gotten very used to that.
This can now update data using wireless internet if you have the internet. No need for windows or Mac. Wish he had shown that?
@@bostonblackie9503 That is covered in the UI video that I linked to.
For power when downloading you can use the UBS cable that comes with the package connect it to a UBS plug that goes into a household electrical outlet. Power at home not in the car!
Yes that is an option too but then you have to take it out of the car. It is good to have options.
is there a subscription for traffic update?
search.app?link=https%3A%2F%2Fsupport.garmin.com%2Fen-US%2F%3Ffaq%3DekZA87v1nIAt6R3ZFqVlb9&Csh%2Fx%2Fgs%2Fm2%2F4
Not all new cars have GPS. It depends on how much you can afford to pay for a car. Just bought a new car and to go to the level of cars that have GPS it would have cost me $8000 more!
8k more no thank you.
In the Box
Garmin DriveSmart 55
Vehicle suction cup mount
Traffic receiver/vehicle power cable
USB cable
Quick start manual
USB to Mini USB Interface cable to connects your Garmin GPS to your PC to download Garmin drivesmart 55 software updates and to update garmin maps using Garmin Express and to sync with Garmin Connect. It notifies you when updates are available and helps you install them.