Gadgets vs speedtraps at CES

In tandem with in-car technology getting a massive showing at the at the world’s biggest consumer technology showcase, this week’s Consumer Electronics Show (CES) in Las Vegas, the technology to defeat speed traps is also coming out from under the, err, radar. Systems will be on display for iPod, iPhone, Android and GPS devices.

Two new radar detection systems will debut at the upcoming International Consumer Electronics Show, running January 6 ‚ 9, 2011 in Las Vegas.

The Cobra iRadar for Android and EscortInc’s new Passport iQ, the world’s first integrated radar detector and GPS NAV driving accessory, will both make their debut.

The initial version of the Cobra iRadar system, which is compatible with iPhone and iPod Touch models, was launched last month. Recently, Cobra iRadar received three awards at the SEMA Show as well as being named a 2011 CES Innovations Award Honoree earlier this week.

“We are very excited to make the Cobra iRadar system available to Android users, who now represent over one-third of the smartphone market,”” said Sally Washlow, senior vice president of marketing and sales for Cobra Electronics. As Ms.Washlow pointed out, between the two operating systems Cobra iRadar will be accessible to a significant majority of U.S. smartphone users.

The iRadar system uses Bluetooth wireless technology to connect the smartphone to the detector. The smartphone’s display is then used to control the detector’s settings and show alerts. As a result, the Cobra iRadar Detection System enables motorists to view, hear and log alerts for radar/laser guns as well as upcoming speed/red light cameras and other potential hazards.

The free Cobra iRadar App includes Cobra’s exclusive AURA Camera and Driving Hazard Database, which enables drivers to receive alerts for speed and red light camera locations as well as other driving hazards.

Cobra iRadar for Android will have a manufacturer suggested retail price of $169.95. The Cobra iRadar app, along with the AURA database, will be available for free from the Android Market.

PassportiQwill be showcased at the 2011 CES Digital Experience on January 5at Caesars Palace.

“”We are excited about having the opportunity to demonstrate our new Passport iQ to high-profile media attendees. They will experience first-hand the first convergence of state-of-the-art radar and laser detection, red light and speed camera notifications, speed limit information, GPS navigation and more,”” said Ron Gividen, Escort PR/Media manager.

PassportiQ is based on Escort’s test-winningPassport 9500ix GPS-enabled radar and laser detector. The new PassportiQ takes the driver interface for radar detection to a higher level by presenting a user-friendly choice of visual and audio alerts while offering easy-to-read 3D maps, voice-guided turn-by-turn directions and lane-assist‚Äîall of which provide comprehensive directions and updates for driving anywhere, anytime. The intelligent iQ can notify drivers if they go over posted speed limits. Red light cameras and speed traps appear on-screen over their mapped location.

· For more information about the new PASSPORT iQ visit Escortinc.com.

· For more information on the Cobra iRadar Detection System, visit www.CobraiRadar.com.

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