Audiovox Android headrest pairs DVD player with app delights
Yes, more Android-powered accessories. This time it's a headrest from Audiovox, which connects through WiFi networks and provide in-car time-killing for passengers in the back. It'll generally require you to tether to your smartphone for the privilege -- unless you like idling outside your home or office. But once you're connected, expect to get the requisite social networking, web browsing and app joy of the Google OS. Alongside the DVD (not Blu-ray) player, there's also an SD slot, HDMI and USB port, although the company's keeping schtum on exactly which version of the OS it'll arrive with. Anyone who needs more Android in their life can peruse the press release below.
Show full PR text
Audiovox Brings Android to Rear Seat Entertainment
Award winning headrest line delivers full function Android technology to the rear seat of the vehicle
LAS VEGAS, NV – January 9, 2012 – International CES, Center Hall, Booth 10404-10415 –
Audiovox Electronics Corporation (AEC), the recognized market leader in overhead and replacement headrests, announced today that they will produce a custom headrest system that brings full function Android technology through local hotspot Wi-Fi connection to their custom headrest, rear seat entertainment (RSE) product line.
"Consumer behavior is changing. People have their whole lives on a single device that they use for music, videos and sharing content and they don't want to give that up just because they are in their cars," said Tom Malone, President, Audiovox Electronic Corporation. "Our new Android based headrest system lets the rear seat passenger stay connected. Simply tap into a Wi-Fi hotspot wirelessly through your Smartphone or other Wi-Fi enabled devices, and your backseat passengers can immediately enjoy all Android technology has to offer...like surfing the web or social networking, playing music videos, and even streaming movies."
This new RSE system will start shipping in Q3, 2012 under the Audiovox and Advent brands, and will include the following enhancements and step-up features that take the in-vehicle connectivity to a new level. Upgradeable Android operating system with a Dual-core processor and Wi-Fi capabilities (external hotspot necessary) and multiple usage configurations that provide the rear seat passengers with the ability to have Android access on both monitors with or without DVD. This system also comes with Hi-Def Digital LCD monitors with crisp LED backlighting, USB, SD and HDMI connection ports. The system is Bluetooth enabled, comes with a wireless remote control, and is available in over 1,000 OE style vehicle applications. All headrest systems comply with Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards.
"It used to be that content was king...now content delivery rules the pack. We are beyond physical DVD and Blu-Ray media. Consumers now want applications to stream and/or download audio, video, games, news, sports, and social media," stated Malone. "Android tablets make up 22% of all the tablets shipped and Android Smartphones dominate the field with a 55% share. We chose Android since it is an open system to work with, unlike closed systems that require extensive certification and licensing agreements that create development delays and increased product costs. The only way to stay a market leader is to continually deliver innovation in technology and design. These systems do just that."
