Vegas is known for its bright lights, gambling, clubs, and in January ... tons of new consumer audio, video, and electronic products. This year, the annual International Consumer Electronics Show will cram an estimated 150,000 attendees into the gigantic Las Vegas Convention Center, making it a virtual playground with the newest electronics products and emerging technologies. Truckin' got a sneak peek of some of the gear that will be unveiled at the show.
One of the hot product categories continues to be integration with particular emphasis on digital music players and hands-free communication. Audio manufacturers, especially those of which make accessories, have stayed on track to design and develop integration pieces that make a seamless connection between OE and aftermarket automotive products.
In-vehicle entertainment, information, and communication-otherwise known as infotainment-has become another focus for many source unit manufacturers. As more states append new restrictions on cell phone usage in the vehicle, Bluetooth connectivity is becoming more and more important. Bluetooth-equipped products allows communication between electronic devices, such as your cell phone and an earphone, or even your head unit. In most cases, Bluetooth-equipped head units allow for hands-free communication through voice commands. Navigation-equipped vehicles may also benefit from hands-free, from changing channels on your head unit to inputting directions in the navigation.
Dropping retail prices and easier-to-use interfaces on portable navigation devices (PND) has increased consumer demand. PNDs not only give directions, but many are adding traffic information, movie times, gas prices (at nearby pumps), and restaurant recommendations-all wrapped into one small unit. Heck, with the right phone and service plan, you can even get GPS navigation on your cell phone. Now, no one has an excuse for getting lost.
Satellite XpressRThe Audiovox XM XpressR, XMCK20P, is the first plug-and-play satellite radio with 30-minute pause and replay, split-screen, and a six-line display, which allows the user to view both the current XM channel on the left side and five additional channels on the right side, simultaneously. It's all on one screen and viewed by channel name, artist, or song title. XpressR features quick channel navigation with the option to program as many as 30 favorite channels, or one may press numbered buttons to enter and move directly to the desired channel. The unit features a remote control with pause, replay, direct-channel entry buttons, and 5-way navigational control for rapid channel scrolling. It automatically adjusts screen brightness from day to night, plus has a customizable stock and sports ticker. An alert can be set for whenever your favorite songs, artists, or sports teams are being played on another channel. TuneSelect finds your favorite songs or artists, GameSelect finds your favorite sports event. The XpressR MSRP is $129.99. For additional information, visit www.audiovox.com.