Garmin and ASUS to create line of co–branded LBS-centric mobile phones

06 Feb 2009

To leverage the companies' navigation and mobile technology expertise, Garmin and ASUSTeK Computer agreed on a strategic alliance to design, manufacture and distribute co-branded location-centric mobile phones. Already cooperated on a diverse mobile phone product line, the Garmin-Asus nüvifoneTM series, the companies expect to bring to market several Garmin-Asus nüvifone models in 2009.

Believing in the emerging opportunity of converged devices, Garmin's charmand & CEO Dr. Min Kao said: "This alliance is advantageous to both companies because it allows us to combine our resources and establish a strong foundation from which we will innovate and introduce the world to the benefits of LBS-centric mobile phones."

Continuing the product vision of the original nüvifone, all Garmin-Asus systems will be LBS-centric devices, seamlessly connecting, communicating and navigating. The original Garmin nüvifone will be re-branded as the Garmin-Asus nüvifone G60, which is scheduled for delivery in the first half of 2009. The nüvifone also features Ciao!TM, a social networking application that bridges the gap between multiple location-based social networks and integrates them.