where are you? Microsoft has introduced a new combination product that should keep drivers from getting lost. Called Microsoft Streets & Trips 2005 with GPS Locator, it includes a Global Positioning System receiver that can be attached to a Windows Mobile-based Pocket PC or Smartphone. It also includes Microsoft's Pocket Streets software for Pocket PC and Smartphone, with data on 5.4 million miles of roads and streets. Users can pinpoint their location onscreen and use the device and software to plot routes and calculate driving times. The retail price is $129. Go to www.microsoft.com/discover.
clubs to go Golfers who would prefer not to lug their own clubs along on business trips (or leisure ones) will soon have a new option. A company called Gear-to-Go (www.gear-to-go.com) will let you rent the clubs of your choice, and will deliver them to your hotel, with 72 hours' advance notice. The operation will debut in Phoenix/Scottsdale in November, and plans to expand to other popular golf destinations in 2005. The company is working with major equipment manufacturers to provide demo models of the latest clubs, which users can mix and match to their own specifications.
in the neighborhood Major car rental companies like Hertz and Avis are opening lots of new rental outlets in neighborhoods and suburbs these days, so Travelocity (www.travelocity.com) has expanded its car rental area to include all these off-airport locations in its listings. Users can also search the enhanced car rental area now to find one-way rental options for trips between a neighborhood and an airport location. What's more, Travelocity now will guarantee that the total price quoted in your rental search, including the base rate, taxes and fees, will be within one percent of the price cited in the booking process. "If not, Travelocity will pay the difference back to the consumer," a spokesman said.
wireless in your pocket Network connectivity specialist D-Link (www.dlink.com) this fall unveiled a new product called the D-Link Wireless Pocket Router/AP, which it describes as "a portable wireless networking solution for business travelers wanting to access and share hotel Internet connections, wirelessly connect Ethernet devices or secure shared information from potential hackers." It's a little over three inches long, can be powered through a USB port if necessary, comes with a carrying case, and is priced at $99.99.
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