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USB connection
Start by connecting your TomTom device to your computer with the included USB connection.
Compatible units include the TomTom x50 series and the TomTom 335 LE, SE, and LM models. Here we're using the TomTom XXL 550 TM.
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TomTom Home 2 software
If you haven't done so already, install the TomTom Home software and fire it up. The available downloads for your TomTom device will appear in a list. The new software update is at the top of the list.
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Download updates
Once you've downloaded and installed the updates, your TomTom unit will reboot.
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Route detail button
Here we have the new firmware (right) next to the previous version. After choosing a destination, the new software features a route detail button.
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Route info screen
Users are able to preview their route as a list of turns, as a slideshow of images, or as an overview. Here is also where you'll find the route demo option, which is an animated simulation of the chosen route.
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New options
The options screen also features an array of new functions and a slight restructuring of the older ones. Among the new options are volume control, brightness preferences, and driving-view preferences.
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Volume options
The previous firmware featured volume controls hidden on the map, but the new software also features a menu option and speed sensitive volume controls.
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Brightness preferences
Users also gain individual controls over day and night brightness and the option to manually or automatically switch between the modes.
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Interface customization
Under driving-view preferences, users can customize their TomTom's interface.
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New vertical status bar
The status bar can be displayed horizontally or vertically.
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Status bar options
Users also gain a plethora of options for customizing what information appears in the status bar.
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Planning preferences
A new set of planning preference options gives users fine control over how the TomTom handles trip routing.
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Planning preferences
A new set of planning preference options gives users fine control over how the TomTom handles routing of trips.
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Traffic rerouting
If your TomTom features traffic data, the unit can be set to automatically reroute if a faster route is found while navigation is under way. The user can also have the unit prompt before rerouting or simply not reroute at all.