Maps seem to be invading almost every form of digital media and gadgets. They have overrun mobile phones, with the high-end GPS phones claiming they can help you negotiate even the roads less travelled. Even the GPRS-only phones now offer a range of solutions as they download the surroundings onto their tiny screens. The all-encompassing Internet too has been assaulted with every form of mapping, with the satellite pictures, graphics and scanned maps available at the click of a button. So why should anyone want to buy a device that’s only a digital map with a screen? The A-MAX 06GP5A Navigator, the latest of MapmyIndia’s two versions, has the answer.

Built with black-and-silver plastic, the slick and slim Navigator is all screen. The 3.5-inch colour display isn’t just a window to the maps of the country; through its precisely calibrated touch-screen, it also acts as a simple and intuitive input mechanism. With the flick of a finger or the bundled stylus, you can easily and accurately select menu options, input the destination or find the closest ATM. In fact, it has removed the need for buttons and is left only with the power switch.

Besides the evolved screen, the Navigator has completely done away with the annoying flap-antenna, making it lighter and easier to carry. The entertainment section has also taken a step forward; the A-MAX can play a lot more formats of videos and music. So when it’s not navigating, it becomes a handy multimedia player. This is augmented by a built-in USB port, through which you can transfer your favourite flicks and tunes from a computer to the navigator.

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