2012 was an eventful year in car audio & electronics. Technology-wise we saw the launch of MirrorLink, new Android-based car radios and more radios that work with Android phones.
Blaupunkt returned to the U.S. market under the wing of Rockford, and Boston Acoustics left the market.
Some of the most popular news stories, that you as readers voted for with your mouse clicks, are listed below.
But before we get to that, some other trends to note:
Remote-start-from a phone gained traction, and Tint World continued to expand as a new format for car audio shops.
Alpine introduced a car radio with a larger, 8 inch screen, and we saw a proliferation of mini amplifiers that can be installed in tiny places, even motorcycles.
Best Buy and other big box retailers took a beating from online stores such as Amazon and retailers in the Northeast took a beating from Hurricane Sandy.
The industry came together in August during KnowlegeFest with a renewed commitment to training, and to assertively marketing the expertise of the specialist.
Again, here are the stories that were most widely read in CEoutlook, receiving many thousands of views:
Kenwood Intro’s Ford Sync Radio Replacement–Kenwood teamed up with Automotive Data Solutions (ADS) to let Ford owners swap out their factory radio for a Kenwood navigation system.
Kicker to Enter Walmart in September–Kicker entered Walmart in September with a limited number of entry level products.
Car Radio Makers Cite Problems with iOS6–Some consumers who upgraded to iOS 6 initially found problems with Bluetooth control.
Other top stories:
Kenwood Launches Android Ready Car Radios
Kenwood Adds Aha Radio; Expands Android
JVC Mobile Gets Android and Gesture Control
Boston Acoustics Exits Car Audio Aftermarket
12V Dealer Hits Jackpot With iPad Mini
Best Buy is Gradually Going out of Business: Forbes
Car Audio Wins in Florida Supreme Court
New iPad Audi Install: Car Audio & Electronics Magazine
Update on “Alpine Showroom” Store
Thank you to our readers, who supported us all year by reading and commenting on CEoutlook!
Source: CEoutlook