Abstract
Car A/V device include car stereos, car TVs, and GPS navigation systems. Japan was the first nation to enter the car A/V system market, and has remained in the lead since then. This report will analyze the latest car A/V devices developed by Japanese manufacturers as well as trends for car display specifications.
Before-Market Car Entertainment and Navigation Systems Remain Dominant
In addition to car A/V devices, before-market car navigation systems account for a larger share of the Japanese car device market. Moreover, most of these systems include both A/V and navigation functions. While all the manufacturers have started to sell portable navigation systems, Japan's consumers prefer to buy car navigation systems that are already embedded in cars. As a result, the penetration of portable A/V and navigation systems for the aftermarket remains low.
Music Player Connection As Standard Specifications
In recent years the iPod and other portable MP3 players have become popular, car A/V device makers have been compelled to offer equipment with support for these music players. Gradually, such equipment has become standard car accessories. Pioneer in January and February 2006 rolled out six A/V models that could connect to the iPod and other portable music players. New products from Alpine, Kenwood, and Sanyo also work with portable music players.
Trends Towards Car TVs with Mobile TV Support
Following the launch of digital TV services worldwide, mobile TV services have also kicked off. Japan in April 2006 launched its One Segment mobile TV service, and a number of manufacturers have followed up with car TV products that are compatible with the digital broadcasting service. For example, Panasonic and Pioneer have upgraded their displays from analog to digital support, with resolutions reaching 800RGBx480 pixels and higher.
Appendix
List of Companies
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Pioneer |
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Panasonic |
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Fujitsu-Ten |
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Alpine |
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Kenwood |
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Mitsubishi |
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Sanyo |
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Sony |