Released practically at the same time as the
TomTom One v3 , the One XL is almost a perfect copy. In fact only two characteristics set them apart. The One has a large screen and there is a TMC module input. Finally, there is a TMC module for the TomTom One and they are no longer obligated to rely on a single GPRS Bluetooth mobile phone connection for traffic info.
Finally, there is TMC...Or almost
It should be said that this product release was not the easiest. The first versions were bugged and needed various material and software updates. If by chance you bought an uncooperative TMC model for your TomTom One XL, think about updating its software with the help of TomTom Home on the CD that came with the GPS. If the problem persists, you will have to exchange the TMC module, for which TomTom assumes the cost conscious of the problem on the first versions. For those who have not made a purchase yet, according to TomTom, just know that the problem is resolved. However, there is another one more: finding this famous TMC module which is currently unavailable.
An XL screen
The other innovation is the 4.3 inch screen in 16/9 format, which offers a definition of 480 x 272, versus 320 x 240 for the TomTom One. Resolution has therefore been improved even if the two screens are almost exact in height. The result is noticeable. Curves in roads have less of a « stair » effect, but it’s not perfect yet. However, overall comfort is truly improved as well as searching with the virtual keyboard, which offers much larger keys limiting the risk of pressing surrounding ones. The last advantage is that the sides of the screen allow the display of more roads than with a 4/3 model. This added space could have been used for more navigational info as the road we are following is generally vertically displayed.
Finally, even if the 16/9 format is new for the TomTom One, this is consistent with what is starting to appear with all the other manufacturers.
Searches that are a little slower
If the One XL is supposed to be an exact copy of the One but with a larger screen and a TMC connection, we noticed a weakness not present on other models. Our One XL showed slowness when predicting addresses and calculating itineraries. As a reminder, a « predictive search » consists of retaining words (here streets and cities) and then giving you the choice of them when you type their first few letters. For example, when you type « Pari« , the search engine will propose, amongst other things, « Paris« , « Parigny« , and « Parisot« . You then only have to click on the name of the town instead of continuing to type. This system is in all the TomToms, but is slower on the One XL. The result isn’t that bad, but it isn’t the same almost instantaneous one, which we find with the other Ones.
