parrot.com

Parrot introduced its new Android-OS-powered single-DIN head unit, Asteroid, at the 2011 International CES. This receiver combines advanced hands-free phone usage, connection to Web services and access to apps and music from multiple sources, the company stated.

Slated to be available in the second quarter of 2011 in the U.S., Parrot Asteroid is provides a range of services via a GPS dongle (provided by Parrot) and a 3G key (not provided). One service is Parrot Maps, a mapping service that allows a driver to identify streets and businesses close to his or her vehicle. By zooming on the address, the user can dial, hands-free, the indicated phone number or plan an itinerary. Additional location-oriented services include finding parking or gas stations, traffic reports and construction alerts. Parrot said that it plans to expand the types of driving-related services offered via the Asteroid receiver.

When it comes to music, the receiver can connect to various sources including USB key, iPhone/iPod, MP3 player, SD card and now Web-based radio stations (via a 3G connection). Music files can also be sent to the car receiver from a mobile phone and via Bluetooth stereo A2DP. Parrot’s Asteroid also offers the functionality of traditional car receivers such as AM/FM radio and RDS text+ service.

Another music-related function that Asteroid offers is voice search. By pushing a dedicated button on the Asteroid, the unit will announce the name of an artist or an album without using text search or the wheel button to navigate through the menu. If the artist or album is not found in the peripheral(s) connected to Asteroid, and if a 3G key is connected to it, the unit will automatically search online music libraries.

Compatible with all brands of Bluetooth mobile phones, Parrot Asteroid can pair with a mobile phone (two telephones can be simultaneously connected) and synchronize and automatically update its phonebook. Access to the phonebook is available without having to adjust any settings thanks to voice synthesis (text-to-speech) and training-free, multi-user voice recognition.

For the unit itself, the Asteroid is black, features backlit buttons, is detachable via a magnetic guiding system for easy and fast insertion of the faceplate, Parrot stated. Buttons give access to the main functionality of hands-free telephony or audio, and a rotary button facilitates menu navigation.

The right side of the Asteroid features a large 3.2-inch TFT color screen that displays information, including phonebook, menus, music, playlist, album covers, Internet applications and services.

The company has not yet announced retail pricing for this product.

Parrot Asteroid features the following:

3 high-speed USB ports to connect a 3G key, a USB key and/or the provided GPS antenna
1 full speed USB port dedicated to iPhone or iPod
1 cable jack to connect an MP3 player
1 SD card reader
2 pairs of RCA pre-amp outputs
1 pair of RCA for subwoofer