Parrot ups the ante for iPhone in-car audio experience

Sep

Posted by Oughtlaw

Accessories, Hardware

Parrot

In this new wave of audio media options in cars, who has time to fumble around with CD’s that hold a dozen songs? Or maybe you’re a little ahead of the times and have a car stereo that play MP3 files? You might as well be in the stone age, because now Parrot has brought an in-dash system that is dedicated just for your iPhone or iPod Touch. No more wires, no more FM Transmitters, no more bulky docks, and the list could go on but you get the point. Integrate your iPhone and in-dash stereo seamlessly with the Parrot RKi8400.

The Parrot RKi8400 serves as a FM/AM car stereo but this isn’t the meat of the functionality. You will find multiple options for attaching digital music such as: USB port for a external hard drive or USB key, SD card reader, and a double line-in socket for analog sources. And since Parrot throws out the useless CD player, you now have a storage compartment behind the faceplate that could be used for your iPhone or iPod Touch. Within that cubby-hole, you’ll find a dedicated line to attached your iPhone/Touch and let it charge at the same time.

To add a cherry on top, you will be able to use this system as a hand-free device via Bluetooth. Even if you’re cruising to your favorite playlist, once a call comes in the system automatically switches to hands-free mode. It comes with a double microphone that helps eliminate inside and outside noises. The Bluetooth integration is compatible with all Bluetooth mobile phone brands avaliable.

And how about that 2.4 inch display? All information (phonebook, music library, album covers, etc) will be displayed on the screen.

Henri Seydoux, founder and CEO of Parrot stands tall for his product. “With the RKi8400, Parrot allows users to take advantage of the iPhone in car through a system that is easy to use and fully integrated in any vehicle. All iPhone functions – music, navigation of the music directory and playlists and Bluetooth phone capabilities – have been adapted for in-car use. Parrot’s application of its renowned acoustic quality and voice recognition capabilities to the iPhone is sure to please even the most discerning listeners.”

As of now, you will see a $399 pricetag attached to the full package.