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Clarion unveils colorful double-DIN head units
Oh sure, we've seen plenty of flashy and sophisticated devices aimed at filling that gaping double-DIN hole in your dash, but how's about a device that 10-year old passengers and suckers for all-things-adorable would also dig? Enter Clarion's newest duo, which comes in either white (DUB275MP) or black (DUB275MPB; seen after the jump) and actually packs quite a nice feature set considering the lighthearted design. Aside from the CD drive, it also offers up a front-mounted USB port for loading up MP3 / WMA files, customizable accent lights, optional Bluetooth, AM / FM tuner, a 50-watt x 4 amplifier and a cutesy display to boot. Check 'em out later this month for ¥34,650 ($295) apiece.[Via ShinyShiny]
Integrated Mobile Electronics' universal iMe dock gets price, ship date
We know, it's pretty difficult to remember all the way back to November of last year, but for those who need a refresher, Integrated Mobile Electronics' iMe docking station enables one device to accept a multitude of DAPs / PMPs within your car. The company hopes that folks with various players (or various riders) will enjoy not having to rewire their vehicle for every single unit, and apparently, the iMe is entering production and should be in customers' hands "within six to eight weeks." Dubbed an "integrated package," it should play nice with devices from Apple, Microsoft and SanDisk from day one, while a variety of other players should get support in the future. Potential buyers can even specify what vehicle they own in order to receive a system "specifically engineered to work with their setup," and while the iMe station itself will cost $249.99, each additional dock will run you a stiff $89.99. [Warning: PDF read link]
Pioneer cranks out slew of AVIC in-car navigation systems
Pioneer's been known to unveil new navigators fairly frequently, but the firm is starting October off right by introducing no fewer than nine new units for you to choose from. Starting at the top, the AVIC-HRZ009G / AVIC-HRV002G both sport seven-inch displays, DVD playback, support for MP3 / AAC / DivX formats, a terrestrial digital TV tuner, built-in hard drive and a wireless remote, with the only real difference being the in-dash design of the former and the on-dash (mountable) design of the latter. As your budget tightens, Pioneer ratchets the specs down on seven other similar siblings, giving users a ¥126,000 ($1,094) to ¥262,500 ($2,278) window of alternatives. Hit the read link for all the juicy details on each.[Via AkihabaraNews]
TomTom to provide embedded PND for Toyota's Yaris
While we've certainly heard quite a lot about Toyota and its purported partnerships of late, the most recent one looks to be fairly set in stone. Reportedly, TomTom announced at the Frankfurt auto show that "the latest Toyota Yaris will come with the option to include a TomTom portable navigation device (PND) as part of the vehicle's built-in radio system." Apparently, the device will be "embedded into the radio system" itself and will provide "full radio integration with the car's speakers." Not a bad option for a low-end ride, we say.[Via Stuff]
Speed Mate SM-7081 GPS PMP combo unit
There's a new PMP + GPS combo unit from Korea called the SpeedMate SM-7081, which features an 800x600 7-inch screen, SiRF-based GPS, a built-in T-DMB tuner, video, audio, and image playback, along with support for a rear view camera. It also has audio out, and an SD slot for storage. Yes, it's miles ahead of anything we have here, and at only the equivalent of $430 too.[Via PMPInside]
Pioneer intros well-spec'd AVIC-N4 in-dash navigation system
Less than a month after Pioneer loosed details on its AVIC-X3, along comes word that we can also expect an AVIC-N4 in the not-too-distant future. This single-DIN unit boasts a motorized, flip-out seven-inch touchscreen, optional iPod / Bluetooth compatibility, CD or DVD playback, XM / XM NavTraffic-readiness, and a Tele Atlas database for routing you around. Regrettably, the lack of an internal HDD means that you'll be forced to insert the map DVDs in order to access guidance, but users can feel free to toss in discs with MP3, WMA, AAC, or DivX files when the drive is clear. Furthermore, the unit can even accept tunes streamed in wirelessly from a mobile handset when utilizing the CD-BTB200 adapter, as it understands both A2DP and AVRCP protocols. So, now that you've found a satisfactory replacement for that aging factory head-unit, you've only got to scrounge up $1,600 to make the swap.[Via NaviGadget]
Azentek stocking DiMora's $2 million ride with in-car electronics
If you thought the MyGIG or even Bose's Media System was high-class, Azentek is out to change your perception. Recently, the firm inked a deal with DiMora Motorcar "to provide high-performance computers for the Natalia SLS 2 sport luxury sedan." The ride, if you weren't aware, will be a hand-crafted $2 million, 16-cylinder production automobile, and will sport "at least two Atlas units" which boast voice recognition, FM / XM Radio / Sirius / HD Radio, Bluetooth, CD / MP3 / WMA / DVD support, GPS navigation, VoIP / cellphone integration, "over a terabyte" of storage, and Windows Vista for good measure. Additionally, users will be able to interface with the machines via touchscreen, keyboard / mouse, a handset, USB, auxiliary inputs, etc. Sure makes Blue&Me look like child's play, no?
2009 Hyundai Elantra Touring to feature USB port
It's no secret that vehicles hoping to get Microsoft's Blue&Me system integrated in aren't scared of rocking a USB port, and while Hyundai hasn't stated whether or not the technology will indeed be a part of the 2009 Elantra Touring, the USB port will still be along for the ride. Deemed the first Hyundai to come equipped with such a connector, the vehicle will also come standard with an auxiliary jack and XM radio, which is apt to be called something a bit different by the time it's released. Nevertheless, it's refreshing to see such a nicety being added to a lower-end ride, and while we can only assume that it will enable MP3 playback, Hyundai's remaining mum on the details for now.[Via GetUSB]
Nissan shows off even more safety developments
For those who value ultra-low insurance premiums, Nissan is quickly making a case to be a front-runner in your next car buying decision. Just days after showing off a concept vehicle with anti-drunk driving technology, the firm is now demonstrating a number of other non-alcoholic safety features including a lane departure prevention system, bumper sensors that release a hinge to lift the engine hood slightly and soften the impact if a pedestrian is hit, and a gas pedal that lifts to warn of possible collisions. Granted, some of these devices are already being implemented on a number of rival automobiles in one form or another, but Nissan will reportedly be installing the aforementioned features into its vehicles within the next year or so, and yes, that includes vehicles destined for the US.
Sony's XAV-W1 head unit: SACD in your dash
For the handful of audiophiles who simply cover their ears with their uber-expensive cans when the rational crowd invites them to stop hoping for SACD to take off, here's to you. Sony has launched the "world's first" (we believe it, actually) in-car head unit that supports 5.1 SACD. The double-DIN XAV-W1 touts a seven-inch WVGA LCD, SACD / CD / DVD playback, Dolby / DTS support, 3.5-millimeter auxiliary port, seven-band equalizer, 52-watt x 4 internal amplifier, a trio of AV inputs, an image viewer, MP3 / WMA compatibility, and comes ready to play nice with your iPod and satellite / HD radio receiver. Granted, this thing will run you more than some in-dash navigation systems, but paying $800 for this sure beats retrofitting a traditional universal player into your glove compartment.[Image courtesy of Krunker]
Clarion DRC-3 DriveEye captures vehicle crashes
It's been a tick since we've seen a new in-car accident recorder hit the market, but just in case none of the previous flavors caught your eye, Clarion's DRC-3 DriveEye can certainly do the trick. Per usual, this wee camera attaches to your windshield, and when an impact or sudden braking / acceleration is detected, it captures the 20 seconds before and after the event. Moreover, the built-in power backup system ensures that your recordings stay in tact regardless of electronic failures within the vehicle, and just in case you feel like logging a few frames of that Lambo ahead, the manual recording button allows you to indulge. ¥49,800 ($411) gets you the camera, a 128MB CF card, and all the sensors and switches needed to rig this up, but here's to hoping you never actually need it for legal proceedings.[Via Switched]
Sanyo intros NVA-HD1700DT double-DIN navigation system
Sanyo's taking a break from releasing all those projectors to focus on its in-car lineup, as it introduces a well-spec'd double-DIN navigation unit dubbed the NVA-HD1700DT. The head unit sports a seven-inch QVGA display, built-in DVD player and 30GB hard drive, and even a 1Seg TV tuner for catching up on sitcom reruns whilst stuck in traffic. Additionally, you'll find an FM tuner, 43-watt x 4 amplifier, and an integrated GPS antenna to keep you headed in the right direction. Unfortunately, there's no word on whether an Americanized version of this system will make its way over, but those in Japan can pick one up later this month for a staggering ¥285,600 ($2,332).[Via Impress]
TomTom DUO / Eclipse AVN2210p get reviewed
Granted, we can't imagine Eclipse's AVN2210p appealing to more than a minuscule chunk of you out there, but we can't help but take note when someone rips apart their dash and drives around with it for days on end. The mettlesome crew at GPSReview was able to take the multifaceted device for a literal spin, and while they weren't thrilled with the tricky installation, lack of an included traffic kit, and the omission of text-to-speech, everything else seemed peachy. The TomTom DUO that slots into the in-dash device churned through routing at a respectable pace, and the touchscreen management of the internal functions seemed to delight time after time. Of course, it's hard to say whether or not replacing your double-DIN stereo with this conglomerate is a logical step to take, but if you were tabling this do-it-all creation until some kind words were spoken, we'd suggest giving the read link some thorough attention.
LG's LN740 GPS navigation unit gets reviewed
The crew over at GPSMagazine has certainly been busy of late, as just days after putting the Maestro 3100 through its paces, reviewers are now giving the same treatment to LG's LN740. The device seemed to handle the challenges fairly well, and while the options in the four-inch NAV category are nearly endless, the LN740 did a decent job of standing out. One of the most noticeable praises came from the "unsurpassed routing engine" that was said to outdo competitive offerings from Garmin, Magellan, and TomTom. Moreover, the GUI was highly regarded, and the sheer multitude of POIs and flexible routing options made the unit "a top contender" in the oversaturated realm. Of course, LG's device did suffer from a few drawbacks, as the lackluster display, omitted Bluetooth, and the "virtually useless" music player and photo viewer weren't looked kindly upon. Still, reviewers found enough here to love to dub the LN740 "impressive," and if you just so happen to be eying a mid- to high-end GPS with a manageable size, these reviewers suggest you give this one "serious consideration."
Microsoft patent details in-car stereo with docking station
Hearing Microsoft's name and "in-car stereo" in the same sentence should elicit any forms of surprise, as we've long since known that Redmond was looking to up the ante of automotive entertainment in a bevy of Ford vehicles later this year. A recent patent was granted to the firm that details a "car stereo including a docking station into which an off-the-shelf handheld computer can be docked," and additionally, it insinuates that a multitude of devices will be supported. Of course, we already knew the iPod would play nice with Sync, and while it doesn't specify if each individual DAP that you cram in this thing will have its own interface to display ID3 tags and the like, it sure seems that the major ones will. Another tidbit is the inclusion of a memory system that will "maintain a record its current state when it is undocked from a particular type of appliance," meaning that when you return and re-dock your handheld, everything should resume without any hassle. Best of all, however, is the insinuation that it won't be limited to just DAPs and PMPs, as "another interface form may allow the user to select from resources such as GPS, internet, a printer over USB, etc."[Via InformationWeek]
Continental telematics safety system alerts drivers of impending hazards
It's fairly safe to say that Continental Automotive Systems isn't the only company out there conjuring up an in-car safety system to alert motorists of impending hazards, and while a certain sect (we jest, we jest) would likely ignore whatever great advice it's sure to give, we can still admire the effort here. Dubbed a "car-to-car and car-to-infrastructure telematics application," the system's goal is to alert drivers in advance of potential perils such as poor traction conditions, an approaching ambulance / emergency vehicle, or a road-block ahead that could induce fits of frustration. The developments are reportedly right in line with the US government's Vehicle Infrastructure Integration (VII) Initiative, and we're sure officials are mighty proud of the E-Flare, which provides optical and acoustic warnings coupled with a force-feedback gas pedal, and E-Horn, which accepts incoming warning signals from emergency vehicles and alerts the driver via (presumably distracting) in-cabin lights and sounds. No word just yet on when our next whip will sport a few extra senses, but rather than make things easier on us to control, why not jump straight to autopilot?[Photo courtesy of Continental]
Panasonic launches its first US in-car navigation unit
Looking to establish itself as a "leader in the U.S. mobile navigation market," Panasonic has finally launched its Strada CN-NVD905U, the company's first in-car GPS receiver for American consumers. Besides getting you from here to there using NAVTEQ maps on a 7-inch touchscreen, the 905U -- first introduced almost six months ago -- also offers an impressive suite of entertainment options, including DVD and MP3 CD playback, a 30GB hard drive, iPod video compatibility, and either Sirius or XM satellite stations through the use of optional tuners and antennas. Other nice features include Sirius Traffic capability, Bluetooth support, and inputs for a rear-mounted camera, but since this $1,800 package requires a double DIN slot, Panasonic's gonna have to work a little harder if it really wants to replace our TomToms, Garmins, and Pioneers.
Clarion MAX9700DT all-in-one does in-car NAV, 1Seg, and MiniDisc
Oh how we wish it were all just a horrific dream, but somehow, the engineers behind Clarion's flashy new MAX9700DT in-car navigation unit still felt it necessary to include support for a format that just refuses to die. Granted, the system is loaded to the hilt with features and supported formats, but we have a hard time believing that even the Japanese really still find MiniDisc and ATRAC all that attractive. Nevertheless, the unit also boasts a seven-inch touchscreen display, built-in 1Seg TV tuner, DVD player, a 40GB hard drive, iPod compatibility, 50-watt x 4 amplifier, AM / FM radio, and support for a whole host of audio formats including WMA and MP3. Getting around shouldn't be too difficult given the expansive screen and "3D maps," and just in case that 40GB of internal storage isn't quite enough, you can cram an SD card or Memory Stick into it for a bit more space. As nice as all this sounds, few from crowds other than the elite will be pondering a purchase, as ¥341,250 ($2,868) isn't exactly bargain basement (or even "good deal") territory.[Via NaviGadget]
Mio's C317 handheld GPS watches, records DMB TV
We've seen a plethora of handheld navigation units that pull double duty by tuning into terrestrial broadcasts when not navigating your routes, but Mio's C317 ups the ante by tossing in the oh-so-coveted recording capabilities. The well-spec'd device features a 4.3-inch NEC touchscreen, Samsung's 400MHz 2440 processor, Windows CE .Net 5.0, 256MB of NAND Flash, 64MB of SDRAM, SD / MMC card support for up to 8GB, integrated speakers, USB, 3.5-millimeter headphone out, and a rechargeable battery that should last between 3.5 and 5.5 hours depending on usage. The real kicker, however, is the built-in T-DMB tuner, which allows users to view broadcasted television in PIP, and even record said content onto one of their SD / MMC cards. Unfortunately, there doesn't appear to be an option for a built-in HDD, but we're already seeing the makings of a very valuable hack. No word just yet on price, nor if this bad boy will ever grace US / UK shores, but the South Korean crowd should be enjoying the niceties real soon.[Via NaviGadget]
Mio quietly releases $250 C220 in-car GPS unit
One would think that a manufacturer releasing a sub-$250 GPS unit with a 3.5-inch touchscreen would want to make a little bit of noise about this attack on the low-end market, but not only did Mio fail to make a peep about launching the new C250-like C220, it didn't even bother do up a press release as far as we can tell. Thanks to eagle-eyed Jason who found this pretty powerful little unit on the Circuit City site, though, we finally have the full specs on a device which first peaked its head out a few months back: SiRFstar III, 400MHz Samsung CPU running Windows CE 5.0, 256MB ROM / 32MB RAM, 1200mAh rechargeable battery, and MioMap 3.3 navigation software with TeleAtlas maps loaded up onto an SD card. According to the good citizens of the 'City, the C220 also "tells you the likely locations of fixed speed cameras (speed cameras) and the likely locations of mobile traps, with free updates for a full year from the time you register," but Mio's US site makes no mention of such a service (or the C220 at all, for that matter), and only European countries are listed on the company's German Speedcam database. But hey, what can you really expect from such an entry level system, or from a retailer which just fired all the good people who knew anything about its products?[Thanks, Jason A.]
