New Chrysler, Jeep, Dodge iPod integration
updated 03:15 pm EST, Thu January 4, 2007
Expanded iPod integration
Mopar has expanded the availability of its factory-engineered iPod Integration Kits for most Chrysler vehicles, enabling more Chrysler, Jeep, and Dodge vehicle owners to experience built-in iPod functionality. The audio integration system was launched in early 2006, providing direct connectivity between an iPod and a vehicle's audio sound system. Drivers can browse iPod playlists using the audio system or built-in steering wheel controls. Specifically engineered to interface with select model year 2006 and newer Chrysler, Jeep, and Dodge vehicle electronics, the iPod Integration Kits are available for purchase and installation at Chrysler, Jeep and Dodge dealerships across the U.S.
The integration kit continuously charges any iPod connected to the system, whether the device is playing or turned off. Mopar's audio integration systems support Apple's iPod mini, iPod photo, iPod nano, and video iPod. The digital player track names are displayed on the radio display face, although Mopar notes that radio display and audio prompt features vary between radio models.
The 'Can-B Integrated' kit ($215) is available for the Chrysler Aspen, Chrysler PT Cruiser, Chrysler 300, Dodge Magnum, Dodge Charger, Dodge Caliber, Dodge Ram, Dodge Durango, Dodge Dakota, Jeep Compass, Jeep Patriot, Jeep Grand Cherokee, and Jeep Commander. The 'J-1850 Integrated' kit ($180) is designed for the Jeep Liberty, Dodge Caravan and Grand Caravan, Chrysler Town & Country, and Chrysler Pacifica. Two FM-modulated versions are also available with support for Jeep Liberty, Jeep Commander, Jeep Grand Cherokee, Jeep Compass, Jeep Patriot, Chrysler Pacifica, Chrysler 300, Chrysler PT Cruiser, Chrysler Aspen, Chrysler Town & Country, Dodge Caravan and Grand Caravan, Dodge Charger, Dodge Magnum, Dodge Ram, Dodge Caliber, Dodge Dakota, Dodge Durango, Jeep Wrangler, Dodge Nitro, Chrysler Sebring, and Dodge Avenger.
Fresh-Faced Recruit
Joined: Jan 2001
Apple Car deck
I could only wish. There are many decks that are iPod ready and Apple touts all the integretion by car manufacturers and third party deck options but they all just about suck with one compromise or another.
I have been looking for a ipod deck option for my car (no fm tranmitters) and there are many that look great but none that is worth getting.
For example they either do not play Apple's DRM, only display one line of text, are very slow to load, require expensive components, or have very bad navigation.
Alpine has probably the best ipod decks but they still need some improvement. They do only require a direct cable and a compatible deck. I'm hoping Apple shows off a iDeck at MacWorld :)