Dual XNAV43HD PND With Real-Time Traffic Over HD Radio

Dual Electronics has launched the XNAV43HD – a portable navigation device that makes use of HD Radio technology to bring to you live traffic updates. In fact, this HD-radio based navigation information is a first in the U.S. The increased bandwidth offered by HD Radio means that the service can send across 500 messages per minute to your Personal Navigation Device.

The XNAV43HD makes use of the Clear Channel Total Traffic Network and Inrix via Clear Channel HD radio stations to obtain data in across 50 markets where it’s live. However, unlike TMC (Traffic Message Channel) receivers that offer other information such as information on gas prices, nearby markets, weather, etc this HD-radio based service is restricted to providing real-time traffic data.

The device features a 4.3-inch touch screen, text-to-speech, support for multimedia, etc. It is expected to hit the markets in Spring 2009 and will cost $279.99. It remains to be seen whether this service is offered with other already existing GPS systems apart from the Dual XNAV43HD.