Designed as a 2-way internet connected GPS, Dash claims the unit will feature a slew of unique new features, including the ability to collect real-time traffic data from other Dash drivers, update the device firmware over the air, and push new content out to the devices. Dash has partnered with TeleAtlas for mapping data, Yahoo! for local search, and Inrix for real-time traffic. The company recently secured an additional $25 million in funding, and has been using that money to build and refine the Dash Network. They've been beta testing in the San Francisco / Bay Area for some time, where they have over 200 people driving around with beta versions and collecting feedback. Based on that beta program, Dash reports that people have really fallen in love with Dash's concept of a GPS meets social network. In particular, Dash claims people love the Yahoo! local search feature, and prefer to use it over a traditional POI search.

According to Dash, the device will look at your driving patterns and adapt over time, learning your own particular driving preferences. The device will have pre-loaded maps and POI data in case network connectivity is lost, and will supplement their own traffic data with Inrix's traffic data. If your worried about privacy, Dash says all the data submitted will be completely anonymous.

Dash is now accepting beta testers via their website. If you're interested in becoming a beta tester, head over to Dash.net and sign up.