Wednesday, September 07, 2005

Apple Announces iPod Integration for Volkswagen and Audi Vehicles

Apple has teamed up with four additional car manufacturers, among them Volkswagen, to provide customers with an iPod integration solution. At a press even in San Francisco, Steve Jobs announced that Acura, Honda, Audi and Volkswagen will join 15 other car manufacturers such as Ferrari, BMW, and Mercedes Benz with and Apple iPod integration solution.

When installed, a wire connected from behind the dashboard running to either the glove compartment or a lockable center console where the iPod will remain hidden. Commands can be made through the radio controls or steering wheel buttons. The connection will also allow the iPod the charge.

Volkswagen has said that it will begin to offer iPod integration to the majority of their U.S. 2006 models. Also, Volkswagen is making the adapter available for purchase for customers who have the following models:

New Beetle 99> (Except models with Satellite Radio)
Jetta/GLI/R32 1999.5>
Golf/GTI 1999.5>
Passat 99>
Touareg 2004>

Volkswagen's introductory price for the adapter kit, available November 2005 from dealerships, is USD $148 or CAD$193. Part number 1K0-051-444.