CES 2009

(Credit: Audiovox/Jensen)

The VM9423 touch-screen multimedia system is the first of six new Jensen models that will launch during the first half of 2009. This top-of-the-line system has a built-in HD Radio tuner, integrated iPod connectivity, and iTunes tagging. The VM9423 is GPS navigation, backup camera, Bluetooth, and Sirius/XM satellite radio ready--all of which require additional modules to add their respective functions. We cringe thinking about the mess of cables and modules that would have to be tucked behind the dash for the full-blown, all-bells-and-whistles install, but we think this modular approach will let users add the features they can afford when they can afford them. Flexibility is always appreciated.

The device features a 6.5-inch touch screen with an interface that, while easy to read and understand at a glace, is a bit dated in its aesthetic. USB and SD inputs give the driver options to use digital storage devices with up to 8GB of capacity. MediaLink4, an under-dash interface adapter for connecting external devices, and jLink3 Cable, which terminates with a 30-pin iPod dock connector on one end and a proprietary Jensen connection on the other, are included. CD/DVD optical formats and MP3, WMA and DivX digital format playback are also supported. The VM9423 is expected to cost $549.99.

Audiovox and Media FLO partner to bring FLO Live Mobile TV to the car.

(Credit: CBS Interactive)

At its press conference today, Audiovox/Jensen announced a partnership with mobile media provider MediaFLO USA to bring live mobile TV to Audiovox's mobile audio/video offerings.

MediaFLO's FLO TV service currently allows users to watch ten mobile television channels on certain Verizon and AT&T Wireless handsets for $15 per month. The channel lineup is expected to increase to about 25 channels by the time the in-vehicle service launches in Q3 2009. Whether this will also mean an increase in subscription fees has yet to be determined. According to Audiovox representatives, users will be able to add its FLO TV module to any factory or aftermarket video system with no visible hardware and no roof-mounted satellite receiver.

Audiovox says it's aiming for a sub-$500 price point on its first generation of FLO TV hardware, but final pricing hasn't yet been nailed down.

CES 2009 Preview: Car Tech

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CES 2009 is finally here, and with it comes a torrent of new car-related electronics, as well as updates of old favorites. From car audio to fuel savers to driver safety, the range of products at CES will cover the gamut.

Here's a sample of what you can expect to see over the next week.

View the full Car Tech CES 2009 preview.

Clarion shows off the ClarionMind at CES, a connected GPS device that gives much more than directions.

(Credit: Clarion)

For the second year, CES devotes its North Hall to automotive technology, showing the growing interest in electronics for the car. As we would expect, stereo manufacturers such as Alpine and JVC will be showing new in-dash products, expanding the idea of what the traditional stereo head unit can do. GPS and Bluetooth hands-free devices will also have a heavy presence, with connected GPS devices making an appearance as a new trend. We are also looking forward to seeing innovative new in-car services, such as Internet radio, satellite TV, and new digital music options.

At our CNET Car Tech stage in the North Hall, we will be conducting live tests of car stereos and other car equipment. And don't miss our games, where winning at Name That Tune or Engine Karaoke can earn you valuable prizes.