While we loved the previous incarnation of Microsoft's Streets & Trips, Streets & Trips 2006 is even better, and that is saying quite a lot. New in this edition is a bundled GPS locator that plugs directly into the USB port on a computer, turning a laptop into an on-the-go navigation system. The GPS will provide information such as driving speed, altitude, direction of travel, coordinates, and much more.

A handy function called "Reroute from Here" recalculates the route on the fly if you have left your original path for some reason, such as a side trip in search of a latte, which the software will help you find. It will let you backtrack your course if you need to get back to a previously visited location or road. The 2006 edition also features a voice guidance system, providing turn-by-turn directions.

This version has the ability to rotate maps, and the system magnifies upcoming turns automatically. As in older versions, there is an extensive database of over 1.8 million points of interest throughout the United States and Canada, but the maps have been updated. Streets & Trips also covers 3.4 million road miles in 27 European countries.

The system can "find" itself, using Wi-Fi hotspots to place your location on the map. The system will also locate updates, so if major construction is going on, the system will notify you. All in all, Microsoft Streets & Trips 2006 with the included GPS locator is a comprehensive and proficient navigation suite.

Warranty
mainstream support available until 12/31/08, extended support available until 12/31/13