GPS functionality

[Bergund]

Hi -
It strikes me that the GPS Pod concept must have a much greater potential than what is being utilized in the current t-series. Wouldn't it be really simple to have these watches, or some of the outdoor/multisport models, to display more detailed GPS data?

For instance, by the press of a button, you could have the exact UTM coordinates and altitude. It wouldn't need to include waypoint tracking and things like that (although that would be nice too), but just the basic 3-d coordinates would make these watches very versatile - and much less bulky and pricey than the x9 or whatever that GPS model is called.

Especially for hiking/climbing, this concept is great. Put the GPS unit on the top of your backpack and it's out of your way, and still in a good position to receive signals. And you can still view the data as you go along by looking at your watch. Add this feature to the Observer and we have a winner!

I suspect the GPS unit in the Pods are not really high-end. The speed accuracy is pretty low (+/- 2 km/h) and it doesn't log altitute - which requires relatively more accuracy than the map coordinates.

	Suunto X9i - Click for more info Introducing the Suunto X9i - the new and improved version of the Suunto's X9, voted "Best Product of 2004" by Fortune Magazine. Now available in two colors, the X9i combines GPS functionality with an altimeter, barometer, compass, and thermometer ... all these instruments, packed into a single watch.

	Suunto Observer - Click for more info The shock-resistant Suunto Observer is a tool built for outdoor challenges, but its timeless design makes it wearable in any situation. The Observer is 1/3 smaller in both diameter and width than the first generation Suunto Watches (Vector, Altimax, etc). It also features a chronograph, which previously was only offered in the Navitech but is now discontinued.

	Suunto Pods - Click for more info PODs from Suunto help you bring your workout of choice to a whole new level. Suunto offers PODs geared toward running, walking, all-around biking and road cycling - there's even a GPS POD - all of which enhance the functionality of selected Suunto watches and improve your workout. In fact, in addition to these PODs, Suunto also offers a number of Performance Packs, each of which includes a Suunto POD and Suunto watch together.