Although better known for its dedicated navigation systems, Garmin’s Mobile XT software for smartphones has gained a loyal following in recent times. With the update to version 5 it has introduced some new features that match or even surpass the best of its rivals. And while it is good value for new user, for existing version 4 users this free update is absolutely essential.

The chief change to XT 5 is a newly redesigned interface. It has brought the software fully into line with the nüvi range of PNDs with ease of use being to the fore. The interface is stripped back and approachable, with a mere two main buttons – Where To? and Show Map – dominating the main screen. It’s still not perfect, as the fonts are not the most stylish, and some of the menu titles are too long for their allotted space on the grid.

Entering an address could have been refined as well, as you need to enter the country each time. you start a new search. And if you make a mistake there is no easy way to return to the Home screen without pressing Back multiple times.

For the most part, though, it is a true plug and play solution. Even the installation process on our test Nokia E71 (the software is available for Windows Mobile as well) was painless and automatic. The maps are delivered on a memory card, and unfortunately you cannot copy the software onto a different card with larger capacity. We were upgrading from version 4 and were stuck with a 512MB card, which meant hot swapping cards was necessary in order to use the phone’s multimedia features as well.

In use the XT experience was mostly positive. It makes good use of the phone’s inetrnet connection, with traffic updates and weather information included as part of  the package. Better still is local search courtesy of Google. With this you can find, call and navigate to nearby restaurants, petrol stations etc with a simple search. Detailed and up to date, it is far better than the traditional points of interest.

The map views are clear and voice commands audible. Routing seemed fairly sensible, and rerouting when we drove off our chosen path was quick and responsive. The main map display remained largely free from clutter, keeping the directions visible even on the smallish screen.

Overall, although the interface could still use a few more tweaks, the software is highly useable and represents a good value package.

Platform: Symbian, Windows Mobile
Map coverage: EuropePrice: £60
Web: www.garmin.com/uk

Verdict: 8

Review originally published in Smartphone & PDA Essentials magazine. Words by Andy Betts.

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