Parrot Parrot’s big announcement at CES


was the company’s new Android- powered head unit, the


Asteroid,


which features a customized version of Google’s Android smartphone op- erating system redesigned for the head unit. This receiver combines hands-free phone usage, connec- tion to Web services and access to apps and music from multiple sources, the company stated. The Asteroid features a large 3.2-inch TFT color screen that displays information,


includ-


ing phonebook, menus, music, playlist, album covers, Internet appli- cations and services. The Parrot Asteroid provides a range of services via a GPS dongle (provided by Parrot) and a 3G key (not provided). One service is Parrot


When it comes to music, the receiver


can connect to various


sources including USB key, iPhone/ iPod, MP3 player, SD card and now Web-based radio stations (via a 3G connection). Music files can also be


Hep Tours CES Mobile Electronics Senior Editor Rob Hephner made the


rounds in the North Hall and took notes on some of the no- table new gear companies will soon be offering. Te beginning of the year marks the yearly pilgrimage


to Las Vegas and the hallowed halls of the Las Vegas Con- vention Center. Te yearly trek always is rewarded with the offerings of the future by the manufacturers in the consumer electronics realm. Tis year the products were not only more grounded in reality (they are shipping or will be soon) but they also offer more profitability and the ability to increase profitability than in years past. Te show was decidedly up- beat and even busier in the past, this was commented upon not only by vendors, but attendees as well. Here are my notes on products I experienced throughout


the show.


ACCELE ELECTRONICS Tese folks showed a 7-inch headrest


monitor package that includes 2 DVD players and different skins to match the vehicle’s interior. Additionally, the compa- ny introduced a new Bluetooth-enabled rear-view mirror system that features vid- eo inputs and a caller ID system.


Maps, a mapping service that allows a driver to identify streets and busi- nesses close to his or her vehicle. Parrot said it plans to expand the types of driving-related services of- fered via the Asteroid receiver.


sent to the receiver from a mobile phone and via Bluetooth stereo A2DP. Parrot’s Asteroid also offers AM/FM radio and the RDS text+ service. Compatible with all brands of Blue-


PARROT


tooth mobile phones, Parrot Asteroid can pair with a mobile phone (two telephones can be si- multaneously connected) and synchronize and automatically update its phonebook. Access to the phonebook is available without having to adjust any set- tings thanks to voice synthesis (text-to-speech)


and training-


free, multi-user voice recognition. This product will be available in the second quarter of 2011 in the U.S. The company has not yet an- nounced retail pricing.


ALPINE Head units and amplifiers were at the top of the list for


Alpine, including the INA-W910 AVN. Tis feature packed unit even includes a lifetime traffic service from NAVTEQ RDS. In the safety realm they introduced the HCE-C300R Ac- tive View Rear Camera system that detects movement and gives audible and visual warnings of items behind the car. For integration, Alpine upgraded its Imprint line with the


PXA-H800 and showed a few other items that make integra- tion easier.


AUDIOVOX For consumers tired of carrying around multiple remotes.


Audiovox introduced a remote start and keyless entry system that uses the existing factory remote to control the system. Audiovox also showed a new line of factory fit receivers de- signed for specific vehicles and to interface directly into the dash and electronics, with upgraded options.


BOSTON ACCOUSTICS BA upgraded its line of GTA Amplifiers, all with the same


value as before. Te new amps have a 25 percent increase in power and have added features to further reduce noise and improve clarity, according to Boston Acoustics.


www.me-mag.com 31


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