Garmin to Offer Free, Advertising-Supported Traffic Detection and Avoidance

NAVTEQ, one of the big two GPS map and traffic data providers, has announced it was selected to partner with Garmin to offer the GPS industry's first free, advertising-supported traffic detection and avoidance service. The service is to be offered with the Nuvi 755T, 765T, 775T, and 785T family of car GPS units ($500 - $800), and the more affordable Nuvi 255 models ($250 - $300).

"NAVTEQ delivers advertising, along with the traffic content, over its RDS network. The advertising is designed to complement the driver's experience and is contextually relevant.  For example, a driver can click on an ad to view specific restaurant information and route to the restaurant’s location," states NAVTEQ.

NAVTEQ is a global company based in Chicago, with more than 3,800 employees in 42 countries. No word yet on when the free, advertising-supported traffic service will be available, but I'd be surprised if it isn't in place in time for the holiday buying season. Watch for the review here – we're eager to try it.