Someone gave me a Bad-Elf GPS pro recently. Cool thing! IT has Bluetooth connection to an iThing so it can be used for mapping (ForeFlight, for example). It also acts as a data logger, battery runs 30 hours with the Bluetooth off.
Things I like about it:
- long battery life- longer than a Cell phone GPS or my Nuvi. Lets me save an entire day of travel
- Adjustable timing between points (1 sec, 10 sec, and some others)- saves memory by not recording more data than is needed
- Bluetooth to iPad or iPhone: when these are used as a map, the Bad-elf can be placed were the GPS reception is best, like the glare shield of a plane while the display is where it can be easily seen
-Sensitive receiver- even works in my basement!
-Fast lock on position
-LCD display- let me now it is receiving satellites, displays time so I can synchronize camera clock, shows direction of movement, lets me mark a POI
Things that could be improved with this device:
- Work with Android or maybe even Windows Surface devices
- Saves track in the time zone for the iThing- Causes confusion when crossing time zones. Should let the user choose
If Garmin had a similar product, they could sell it with their iThing/Android mapping products or their flight software. They cold also sell it into the photography market (distribute via B&H, Adorama, and others) got geotagging. It could also be useful for combining with other data, such as taking water measurements (pH or other such data) and so could potentially be sold through Fisher and VWR
One form factor, of the features & batteries would fit, would be on the fitness watch GPS sold by Garmin