Parrot intros iPhone-ready car stereo
updated 09:10 am EDT, Tue September 1, 2009
Parrot iPhone Car Stereo
Parrot today previewed the Frankfurt Auto Show by launching the RKi8400. A rare in-dash car stereo meant specifically for the iPhone, the system lets users browse the Apple smartphone's music by album cover on an LCD and automatically invokes hands-free mode when a call comes in. Stereo Bluetooth is onboard as well and provides hands-free calling to any cellphone in addition to music playback for any device that recognizes A2DP, including iPhones and second-generation iPod touch models with 3.0 firmware.
Most other dockable iPods are supported, as are music files stored on USB storage. An SDHC card slot gives it semi-permanent storage without occupying the USB port. For anything else, the single-DIN unit also has a dual line-in jack, and all sources have access to the unit's 200W MOSFET amp.
Americans should already have access to the RKi8400, which sells for $400.
Fresh-Faced Recruit
Joined: Dec 2005
ur point?
Specs sound very much like the line of HU's that Alpine puts out. Is there anything here that's actually innovative?
If allowed you to control the iPod/iPhone from the devices interface as well as the HU, then you might have something. Alpine takes over the controls completely, so passengers who want to browse via the touchscreen interface are SOL. Personally, i'll take the full quality you get from Alpine's processing method over the plain stereo connection most HUs use.
Does anyone know if the above photo actually shows a connected iPod device?