Posted for John Huft <aflyer@lazy8.net>:

 Bill
 
 Last year, before OSH, the price of the 296 was reduced, and they were
selling like hotcakes, and then 10 days before OSH, the 396 was announced (I
bought one right away).
 
 This year, a month or so ago, the price of the 396 was reduced. Having been
an electronic product designer, I have seen these cycles before, and I was
suspicious. Then, two weeks ago, the Garmin rep came and gave a presentation
to our local EAA chapter. I asked him about a 496, and he denied any
knowledge. But, as he was packing up, he waived me over and said "you're
right" but refused any information. The other day the local avionics shop took
a reservation on a 496 from one of my hangar neighbors (who was at that
presentation and decided to get in line).
 
 It is reasonable to guess that it will have increased memory, a better
resolution screen, and that it will be announced before or at OSH. We'll have
to wait and see if they have any other tricks up their sleeves.
 
 I am sure there will be other announcements at OSH, so I wouldn't buy any
avionics until then. I know Tru-track will have a new product to show off.
 
 John