You don’t necessarily have to purchase a brand new car in order to get Android Auto or CarPlay in your vehicle, both Google and Apple are working with companies that manufacture aftermarket solutions. Pioneer was quick to roll out its receivers with both platforms and while Kenwood did unveil its receivers at the Consumer Electronics Show 2015 it didn’t really provide a release date. The wait ends today.
Kenwood has released two multimedia units that serve as flagships for its Kenwood and Kenwood Excelon lines, both units feature Android Auto and CarPlay.
The company has started shipping Kenwood Excelon DDX9902S and Kenwood DDX9702S to retailers, it has also confirmed the suggested MSRPs for both units.
Since these are double-DIN units they will be compatible with most vehicles, features include a 6.95 inch resistive touchscreen display with navigation and back up camera support.
Also included are a plethora of multimedia audio/video features, Bluetooth connectivity for handsfree phone conversations as well as playback streaming from Bluetooth enabled device. HD Radio, HDMI input with MHL support and DVD playback is present onboard as well, the units are SiriusXM-Ready and have native control of Pandora and iHeartRadio.
The Kenwood Excelon DDX9902S and Kenwood DDX9702S are now shipping to retailers with MSRPs of $950 and $900 respectively.