Top > Business > 2006 > August > 2006-08-07

Apple Sees iPod-friendly Automobiles

If Apple Corp has its way, soon the future may see vehicles tailor-made with the company`s extremely popular "iPod" unit in mind. According to initial reports, Apple will be teaming up with General Motors, Ford, and Mazda (the first two in the midst of some financial restructuring) to put iPod hook-ups in the automakers` new car audio systems. iPod integration will be offered in all new models. GM and Ford are the nation`s No. 1 and 2 automakers.

Apple will now be available as an option in more than 70 percent of the new 2007 models sold in the U.S. The U.S. automakers will not be the first to add Apple to their options, BMW was the first automaker to incorporate iPod into their cars two years ago. Customers can plug the music player into the car`s audio system, and then access the iPod`s music library through controls on the car`s dash. Apple has signed similar deals with a dozen other car companies including Acura, Audi, Ferrari, Honda, Nissan, and Volkswagen.

Ford also has plans to add jacks so that other electronics such as other MP3 players, CD music players, cell phones or even game handhelds can be accessed and played via the dashboard or some other car unit. The automaker has also struck a deal with Sirius Satellite Radio Inc. to offer satellite radio in more than 90 percent of its automobiles by 2008.