For all you Android users out there, Kenwood has released the Kenwood Music Control App. The Kenwood Music Control APP will allow Android users to connect their phone via USB to any Kenwood head unit with a USB port (see compatibility list here) and access the music stored on their phone through the stereo controls.
The free app, that can be downloaded from the Android Marketplace, allows any USB equipped Kenwood CD receiver to charge, control, and play Music stored on an Android device. The USB connection will allow Android users far superior sound quality over the typical stereo headphone jack that most users have had to settle with when listening to their Android in their car. Kenwood Music Link for Android will automatically manage all stored music and enable users to play, browse and search music by artist, album, playlist and even mood. Yep, you read that right. The Mood feature analyzes beats per minute, tempo and other variables to assist in creating 13 categories that listeners can choose from. This feature is similar to iTunes Genius Playlist, but is a reportedly more sophisticated and intricate in its calculations.
Kenwood has a whole new line of attractive models coming out soon that will nicely integrate the Android app. Look out for the KDC-X796 which will be jam packed with features such as built in Bluetooth handsfree and A2DP audio streaming, USB and Auxiliary, Pandora link control for both iPhone and Android, 4 Volt Front, Rear and Subwoofer preouts, Built in HD Radio, variable illumination, SiriusXM ready and of course, it comes with the 2 year Kenwood Excelon Warranty….all for $220. Expected release date is February 2012.
Also look out for their new line of Double Din navigation units like the DNX6990HD which promises to be faster than the disappointing and sluggish line of double din navigation units we saw from Kenwood in 2011. The 2012 model Kenwood navigation systems still use Garmin for their mapping system, but they also come equipped with a 1 core processor which should hopefully eliminate that 5 second delay or the much hated screen freeze that Kenwood users seemed to receive after pressing any command on their screen. Along with revved up processing speed, you will find a 5 Volt preamp, Built in HD Radio, Bluetooth, Pandora link for iPhone and Android, built in NAVTEQ traffic integration as well as an App mode.
Stay tuned for more innovations from CES 2012.
-Annie Amen
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