Alpine to Sell Head Unit With Apple CarPlay Support Starting This Fall?

Alpine will start selling a new A/V Head Unit that supports Apple CarPlay this fall, according to Nikkei.

CarPlay was recently announced by Apple as an intuitive way to make calls, use Maps, listen to music and access messages while in the car. Currently, only Ferrari, Mercedes-Benz and Volvo have debuted the technology in their vehicles; however, additional manufacturers are expected to begin offering the feature in the near future.

The Japanese company's device is to be the first aftermarket product compatible with the system. It will first be available in the U.S. and Europe and likely cost around $500 to $700. The device will connect to an iPhone 5 or later by wire. Drivers will be able to view maps on its screen, likely 7 inches, and use voice commands to access messages, make calls and play music. The system will be able to read messages and directions aloud. ... Alpine's device will go on sale in Japan as soon as 2015. It may be much cheaper than some in-car navigation systems, which can cost as much as $1,000.


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