Mercedes Gear Integrates iPhone
iPhone owners rejoice!
As if it weren't already clear that your does-everything-but-actually-serve-as-a-kitchen-sink device is on its way to complete world domination, Mercedes-Benz has introduced a fancy piece of tech that integrates the iPhone into a cradle between the driver and passenger seats.
When docked in the cradle, the iPhone can be controlled via the steering wheel, and all phone and audio functions are accessible. Beginning in August, Mercedes will offer the integration kit for previous model-year vehicles, while '09 vehicles will have Bluetooth and an optional music interface already integrated, according to Dan Barile of Mercedes-Benz USA corporate communications. Pricing has not yet been finalized, but in Europe the cradle is going for $389 as an option.
No word yet on whether Mercedes is working on a cradle for the Microsoft Zune.
The Zune is dead. I haven't even heard about it for months until this article. All the while the iPod/iPhone is kept in the news. Plus, the Zune isn't even a competitor to the iPhone - it's NOT A PHONE. So why mention it?
Posted by: LM | Jun 24, 2008 8:33:41 AM
LM,
It's a stab at me, Steve's editor, who owns a Zune. Sorry, inside joke. And an FYI: the second gen 80GB Zune has been highly rated. CNET ranks it above the 80GB iPod as it's top rated MP3 player.
Posted by: Dave T. | Jun 24, 2008 9:33:41 AM
Yeah, I know cars.com had talked up the Zune months ago...this's the last place I read about ;)
Needless to say, cnet might rate it higher, but consumers have spoken.
Posted by: LM | Jun 24, 2008 10:41:08 AM
I thought this is about iphone not zune.
Doesn't MB already offer cell phone in their cars?
Posted by: J | Jun 25, 2008 5:53:46 PM