Text-to-Speech Defined

• Text-to-speech devices utilize an enhanced software package to read and render into speech the proper names of streets, exits and other navigational markers. While a non-capable device would say "turn right in 900 feet," the Garmin Nuvi would instead direct you to "turn right on Broadway Street in 900 feet."
  
  

Life-Saving Implications

• While this feature of the Garmin Nuvi may not sound immediately important, text-to-speech offers an added road safety component that some people may overlook. Devices without the ability to speak the proper names of streets and exits may force drivers to repeatedly glance at the GPS display to read this information on their own. This can distract the driver and potentially lead to fatal accidents, because too much attention is focused on reading the display rather than watching the road for hazards.
  
  

Cost Factors

• Because the text-to-speech capability of the Garmin Nuvi requires more advanced software and hardware components to operate, devices with this feature may be pricier than their more simplistic counterparts. Consider the driving habits of the person using the GPS device. If the driver already struggles with attentiveness to the road, purchasing a device with text-to-speech capabilities may be an absolute necessity.
  
  

Text-to-Speech Impediments

• Because the Garmin Nuvi internally reads street names and computes how to pronounce them based on its programming, there may be times when the pronunciations are imperfect. This is especially true when traveling in areas with non-English-based street names. In these situations, drivers may still need to carefully consult the display to identify their upcoming turn.