Pioneer today announced the U.S. launch of the SPH-10BT, a new in-dash digital media receiver designed to work with a smartphone as a display.
The SPH-10BT is Pioneer's first receiver of this type equipped with a built-in smartphone cradle that integrates your own iPhone or Android device into your car's entertainment system.
While in the cradle, the smartphone becomes "visually combined" with the receiver, turning it into a full high-resolution LCD display for accessing Pioneer Smart Sync Driving functions via touch controls when paired with Pioneer's receiver.
"The single-DIN chassis size is almost universal, with the ability to be installed in both older and newer vehicles. However, given its compact size, a single-DIN receiver often lacks a large touchscreen or the ability to integrate well with the smartphone," said Ted Cardenas, vice president of marketing for Pioneer Electronics (USA) Inc. "The SPH-10BT offers a very unique solution by integrating the smartphone both electronically and physically."
The SPH-10BT smartphone setup is compatible with Pioneer's ND-PS1 rear parking sensors and will provide both audible object warnings and visual indicators when connected to sensors installed in the rear vehicle bumper.
While the smartphone integration offers up simple touch controls, the SPH-10BT is also equipped with physical buttons for switching between music sources, activating voice control, accessing navigation apps, reading incoming messages, making phone calls over Bluetooth, and launching into the Pioneer Smart Sync app.
A smartphone is able to connect to the SPH-10BT over Bluetooth, allowing for access to hands-free calling and music streaming. The SPH-10BT also features an anti-theft detachable panel, a customizable user interface, and MIXTRAX integration for "non-stop mix of your music library complete with DJ-inspired effects and club-style illumination."
Pioneer plans to launch the SPH-10BT in the U.S. in February, and it will cost $150, with installation costs not included in that price tag. The SPH-10BT is already available for purchase in Europe.
Top Rated Comments
A double DIN format could have cradled a large phone within it.
Wireless charging would have future-proofed it (unless this intereferes with GPS).
An interchangeable lightning or USB–C connector for lossless audio transfer (until Bluetooth improves).
Built-in road noise cancelling processing (for optional compatible soeakers).
An audible reminder to not leave your phone behind when the car turns off.
[doublepost=1547101270][/doublepost]As a fellow Phoenix resident, I can't tell you how many times I've left my phone in the car when going inside a Circle K or something, only to have to hold my phone in front of the AC vent due to an overheat warning when I get back.
[doublepost=1547101349][/doublepost]Dual was the name of that company. They put those out then Apple went and dropped the dock connector. Short lived but cool product.