Pioneer Electronics (http://www.pioneerelectronics.com/PUSA/) says the AppRadio is now available for immediate purchase at a retail price of US$399.
It’s an in-vehicle product designed to utilize the processing power, storage capacity, network connectivity and apps of the iPhone and iPod touch (fourth generation) as the primary source for its information and entertainment capabilities.
Pioneer’s AppRadio also features a capacitive touchscreen that enables control of most functions using similar touch and motion gestures as many of today’s smartphones, but in a larger 6.1-inch screen designed specifically for safer in-vehicle operation. For safety and convenience, AppRadio features built-in Bluetooth for hands free calling and an input for an optional vehicle mounted rear facing back-up camera, says Ted Cardenas, director of marketing for the car electronics division of Pioneer Electronics USA.
The latest update to Pioneer’s AppRadio app now adds access to the iPhone’s Contacts, Calendar and Photos apps. Contacts provides direct access to stored contact information for hands-free calling via Bluetooth, routing via Google Maps, and enables users to send their current locations via e-mail. With the vehicle parked and the parking brake fully engaged, Calendar displays stored calendar and events information and Photos provides on-screen viewing of the user’s photos, slide shows, geotagged photos and videos taken with an iPhone 4.