Garmin releases Mac POI loader software
Despite a promise almost a year and a half ago that "By the end of 2006, Garmin intends to have made all its popular hardware and software applications Mac OS X compatible. This includes the ability to load MapSource map data to Garmin units via a Mac, as well as waypoint and trip planning applications" Garmin had not released any direct Mac software until they released their WebUpdater for OS X on 04 April, 2007.
The new Mac POI Loader allows you to load custom points of interest into your unit. The input files can be downloaded from the Internet or you can create your own. With POI Loader, you can configure the unit to alert you when you are within a certain distance of a point or if you are driving over a certain speed near a point; perfect to warn you about upcoming schools zones, red lights and speed cameras. The unit will also allow you to search for and navigate to the loaded points of interest.
Because the software is in beta Garmin is not accepting feedback, questions and error reports via their usual Customer Support number, however they are accepting email feedback at mac.poiloader.200beta@garmin.com.
I'm a big fan of Garmin GPS receivers; I loved the Nüvi 360 and Edge 305 (a bike GPS) when I reviewed them in 2006 with my only real criticism being their lack of Mac support. I currently own a Nüvi 660 which I use daily and couldn't live without it.
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