Pioneer's AppRadio 2 for Cars Now Runs on Android

Pioneer's second-generation AppRadio, the AppRadio 2, will be compatible with both iOS and Android devices, the company announced Monday at a press conference.

Pioneer describes the AppRadio as a "smartphone-powered in-vehicle audio system." The AppRadio, introduced in May 2011, is an in-vehicle entertainment system that's enhanced by your iPhone 4. Like the name suggests, AppRadio lets you use AppRadio-compatible iPhone apps on its 6.1-inch multi-touch touchscreen.

Until now, AppRadio has been an iPhone 4- and 4S-only--device. But AppRadio 2 will be compatible with iPhone 4 and 4S, as well as with select Android devices that have micro HDMI or Mobile High Definition Link (MHL) connections. The AppRadio 2 also has a larger, 7-inch touchscreen.

In an unsurprising move, Pioneer also announced that it will be opening up its AppRadio via its Advanced App Mode Dev Center to third-party app developers. Like other in-vehicle communications system makers, Pioneer is not partnering with just any app makers, as it wants to ensure the safety of its customers. So while AppRadio does let you use smartphone apps on your car's entertainment system, the selection is limited.

Pioneer also announced two new in-dash navigation systems, the AVIC-Z140BH and the AVIC-X940BT, which will also be semi-compatible with select Android devices. These two new navigation systems will let users control music apps such as Pandora and Aha Radio with their Android smartphones.

The two systems also take advantage of Pioneer's new Advanced App Mode, which lets users view and control compatible iPhone apps on their iPhone 4 or iPhone 4S.

The AppRadio 2 will be available in April for $499, while the AVIC-Z140BH and the AVIC-X940BT will be available in April for $1200 and $800, respectively.

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This story, "Pioneer's AppRadio 2 for Cars Now Runs on Android" was originally published by PCWorld.