What Is App Radio by Pioneer?

AppRadio is Pioneer’s name for an application that allows you to control your smartphone or in-car radio with one of their head units. The name can also refer to the actual head units that have this ability. The technology was introduced in 2011, and it has gone through a handful of iterations (AppRadio 2, AppRadio 3). Although the original product line was only compatible with Apple iOS devices, newer versions of the hardware and software are also compatible with Android.

What’s the Point of AppRadio?

AppRadio is simply one more way to access the various features of your cellphone in a handsfree manner. It provides the same access to the music on your phone that you can get from an auxiliary cable or an FM transmitter, but it also allows you to actually select songs and control playback from the head unit’s touchscreen in a manner reminiscent of direct iPod control. In addition to music playback, AppRadio also provides on-screen access to other information from your phone, like your address book. You can also use AppRadio to place and receive calls, which is a feature that a lot of OEM infotainment systems provide. The main difference, of course, is the user interface, since AppRadio’s minimalist design cribs heavily from iOS.

Pioneer SPH-DA120 Apple Car Play iPhone/ipodmech-less double din stereo system

Click here to buy online today from the Car Audio Centre website

The SPH-DA120 lets you enjoy all the benefits of smartphone connectivity in your car. Run smartphone apps, listen to your favourite music, watch videos or photos, and charge your battery on the go. The SPH-DA120 also supports AppRadio Mode, CarPlay, MirrorLink and other connectivity solutions like Bluetooth wireless streaming. With the all new SPH-DA120 you are always connected.  Only compatible with iPhone5, 5S, 5C, 6 and 6Plus

Rear camera input:  Parking becomes a piece of cake thanks to the rear camera input. Hook up a backup-up camera (optional) to get a full view of the road and obstacles behind you. You will never miss a thing in reverse!

Apple CarPlay

As our first dedicated aftermarket solution, the SPH-DA120 integrates Apple CarPlay seamlessly in your vehicle. Stay focussed on the road while you access your music, make phone calls, send and receive messages, get directions and more. CarPlay is the smarter and safer way to use your iPhone* in your car. * Apple CarPlay is available for iPhone 5/5s/5c/6/6+.

Free AppRadio Download for Bluetooth

And at the core of the app lineup is the eponymous AppRadio, which is a free add-on that allows you to hook up a smartphone via Bluetooth, USB, or Lightning cable, depending on the specific head unit model and the type of phone you have.

In addition to the AppRadio application, these head units can also run a variety of other infotainment-style apps. Some apps require an additional purchase (i.e. the best GPS navigation apps), and others are free.

Double Din and Pioneer App Radio

At the core of each Pioneer AppRadio is a touchscreen head unit with infotainment leanings. It’s really as simple as that. These head units all fit into the double DIN form factor, and they lack any physical controls - all of the available real estate is taken up by a large touch screen. If your vehicle has a double DIN head unit (or a single DIN/1.5 DIN head unit in a double DIN slot), then you can drop in one of Pioneer’s AppRadio units, and it will work right out of the box. Of course, the main selling point of AppRadio is that it can run apps, and that’s how you unlock advanced functionality that goes beyond listening to the radio and CDs (or watching DVDs).

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