2. Single Integrated Device (GPS/PDA Phone)

So, you say you want to carry one device, rather than many? I'm going to have to put on my GPS designer hat in order to shout at you, Mr. One Gadget Guru. If, after all that, you're still steadfast about wanting one unit, you're in good company.

Still, design is about trade offs: you can't make something small and still have a large screen, and a unit designed to do all things can't excel in all functions and still remain affordable. If you want one device, this means you're going to have to buy a PDA-like phone such as a Windows Smartphone or a Blackberry. Don't fall for the hoo-hah about how these devices do everything that an entire menagerie of tech toys can do, but for a lot less money. Remember the old expression: "jack of all trades - master of none".

Are you prepared to squint at directions on a tiny little screen? Have you considered what happens when your alarms are kicking off, emails are popping up, the GPS navigator is shouting out directions and a phone call is coming in? Do you plan to operate this out of your side pocket or the passenger seat? Well, if you're fairly technical, and willing to deal with the problems as they come, then read on.

Important Features To Look For

Sticking to your guns then? Great! The fact of the matter is that nothing out there is as convenient as a handheld "everything" device. As a card-carrying member of the One-Device Club, for 2007, I can tell you that you'll be looking for the following features: Bluetooth, Wi-fi, integrated GPS, speakerphone, camera and full PDA capability.

The Recommendation

One standout product that impresses me this year is the Pharos GPS Phone. There isn't too much info out there about it yet, since it doesn't arrive until end of January, but I did get a chance to play with one. It is pretty cool, and a world better than the previous Traveler 525; note that the phone looks pretty huge in my hands, but is actually a decent size.

Runner Up

I can't mention phones without touching upon the Blackberry: the only game in town worth looking into is Telenav's subscription-based navigation software. For Blackberry users, your first priority is your email, so expect navigation to play second fiddle. As for the Palm side, there are no Palm phones with integrated GPS for 2007 that catch my eye.

The Style Verdict

Carrying one of these pegs you as a technically savvy, maybe even geeky, sales guy or engineer. You'll be seen as somewhat organized, someone who likes to fix things from time to time, and the go-to person when somebody needs help - especially technology help.