Next Base, which makes DVD players for the car that are often sold through Ford dealers, is launching an iPhone-car radio called Face Off.
Planned for April/May at $299, the double DIN radio, is basically a nifty looking dock for the iPhone (3GS, 4 or 4S). It charges and amplifies the iPhone so you can playback music, GPS and other apps. When you pull out the iPhone you see the radio’s built-in FM radio screen. It also has Bluetooth for hands free calling and comes with a mic or it will work with the car’s existing mic. It also works with steering wheel controls.
You can press a button the radio to access Siri voice control.
Users can also stream video from the phone (hopefully, not while driving).
Next Base said the Face Off is part of its plan is to expand into Apple docks and devices for the car.
“We’ve been making DVD players for the car for the last 7 years and we do a lot of Apple certified products including an iPad mount and an iPhone dock for the back seat…We have the knowledge of how Apple products work so now our mission is to integrate the iPhone in the car,” said Next Bases’ Keating Leung.
The company said it sells to retail installers and also hopes to sell this device through Ford dealers.
It’s worth watching the quick video here.
The built-in amp is rated at 45 by 4 and it has a pre amp out and subwoofer out.
Jalopnik gave the product a favorable review.
Source: CEoutlook
Current iPhone integration that we see in Alpine, Kenwood, and Pioneer radios is the best solution available today. And then “coming soon”, mirror-link will be the best solution for mobile phones, hands down. Radios like this are just a stepping stone to the real solutions that are just around the corner. This is a neat radio with the trick motorization and all, but again… Phone menu systems just were not meant to be in-car solutions, especially in portrait.
OK, that’s all I have to say. 🙂
You know…. I just don’t think this is the way to go for iPhone in the car… The screen is just too small (especially in portrait mode). Most apps use very small fonts for artist and track info; menus are not conveniently designed for in-car use – especially at the distance a car radio places them – fonts are too small and items are too close together.
And just a heads up: It’s “Jalopnik”… No “c”
Thanks Sean. Always appreciate your comments.
Amy