iPhone Car Integration With Dual

Dual is about to launch a new car sound system product line with built-in iPod and iPhone connectivity. We’re not talking about audio-only type of connection here. These new car sound systems will have full control over the iPod and iPhone content. Dual implemented a USB port on the front of their product that you can easily hook the iPhone to. Once you have done so,you can navigate through your content using the sound system control buttons and touch screen. We’ve seen a live demo here at CES and the result is pretty impressive. The launch date has been set to sometimes next March. Check the press release after the jump for pricing information and more. LAS VEGAS, NV, January 7, 2008 – Dual Electronics is debuting a comprehensive new lineup of advanced multimedia head units that provide the latest in communications, connectivity and user convenience, at value-driven price points that put today’s most powerful mobile technologies in the hands of virtually any consumer. “Today’s automotive environment can be the center of entertainment and communications,” said Robb Groner, Vice President of Product Development, Dual Electronics Corp. “People are comfortable with Bluetooth phones, iPods and DVDs, and navigation systems are fast becoming necessity for anyone behind the wheel. With our new line of multimedia head units, we set out to create a variety of models that bring these functions together, in a way that’s simple to operate, and very accessible for the mass market consumer." Dual’s new 240-watt single-DIN XDVDN8190 ($1,199.99) and double-DIN 300-watt XDVDN8290 ($1,199.99) head the lineup with entertainment and information capabilities that rival the most costly factory-installed systems, but at a fraction of the price. Both units feature generously sized LCD monitors (7" and 6.5" respectively) as powerful touch-command centers for integrated navigation, music and video playback, as well as Bluetooth connectivity for hands-free cell phone calls. Additionally, the monitors provide a convenient, simple interface for complete iPod control, with metadata for track, title and artist IDs displayed on the large, bright screen. The same touchscreens become the user interface for placing or receiving calls from most Bluetooth-enabled cell phones. A built-in microphone allows for hands-free operation, and the screen conveniently shows caller ID information. Both models, as well as the new 7-inch touchscreen-driven XDVD9100 ($449.99), XDVD9120 ($499.99) and XDVD9140 ($599.99), offer superb DVD playback, with an ESP buffer that keeps the picture stable over road bumps. All three feature iPod connectivity through a USB input, while the XDVD9120 and XDVD9140 also incorporate Bluetooth operation for hands-free cell calls. The 6.95-inch XDVD9200 ($549.99) features a sleek, streamlined footprint and ergonomically designed tactile buttons, in addition to its touchscreen operation. Dual’s multimedia capabilities even extend to select CD head units, all of which feature outstanding audio compatibility, including compliance with MP3 discs. The XDM6350 ($ 149.99) and XDM7615 ($ 199.99) also read WMA discs, as well as ID tags for both MP3 and WMA files. Both models feature extensive control capabilities for quickly finding music, including a new intuitive search system that provides simple operation and direct access to music in an easy-to-use format. Clear, true reproduction from these units is achieved through an innovative 1-bit D/A converter that is featured in all of Dual’s head units.