German startup Takwak has barged onto the outdoor devices scene with their new TW700. Pairing the best in outdoor navigation capabilities together with advanced communication technology, the TW700 is a handheld GPS, Android Smartphone, and Walkie Talkie all in one.
Hardware-wise, the TW700 features a GPS chipset, 3.5 inch touch screen display (320 x 480 pixels), 5 megapixel camera, WiFi and Bluetooth. Water and dust proof, this device is designed from the start for outdoor use. Weighing around 204g including the battery, the TW700 won't rip a hole in your pack or pocket either.
In areas with no cell coverage, imagine being able to talk to your partner on a multi-pitch climb or to your buddies spread out over the mountain this winter. The TW700 supports eight channels and 38 sub-channels of interference-free walkie talkie based communication. With a fold out antenna, the outdoor device can reach a radio range of up to 10 Km (6 miles) in good conditions.
The TW700 comes pre-installed with European Open Street Maps (OSM) on the microSD card. You can of course download your own topographic maps for use wherever you plan to adventure. An online route planning tool lets you plan your ride or hike for the day or upload pre-planned tours.
A unique group navigation capability enables you to combine multiple devices into a virtual group where you can continually view every member's location on the map. The group can remain in contact via walkie-talkie, smartphone, or even group text and data messages.
Last but not least, the TW700 acts like a regular smartphone for voice and data communications. The Android OS gives you access to thousands of apps to help personalize your outdoor device further and make it even more useful.
The Takwak TW700 will be available in the spring and retail for €549. This is one outdoor device I am excited to check out at ISPO in January.