Car manufacturers are usually slow to adopt new technology, but holy cow, do they love premium branded audio. 80% of 2007 models for sale in the U.S. will offer “branded audio” as optional or standard equipment up from 67% during the ’06 model year. Cars feature brands like Harman/Kardon, Bose, and Boston Acoustics. Car makers are crazy over ipod as well, From BusinessWire:

“Consumers also want to transfer and play their personal digital media content from a PC, or portable media device, and the most sought after feature in cars is support for Apple’s iPod. Last year only 12% of vehicles for sale supported true iPod integration, while nearly 50% of the ’07 models support iPods. Meanwhile, auxiliary input is supported by nearly 60% of ’07 models.”

Does branded audio appeal to you? —MEGHANN MARCO

Branded Car Audio Hits Full Stride for the 2007 Model Year (Press Release) [Buisness Wire]

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