http://www.streetdeck.com

This is the supposed do-everything deck that integrates GPS/Nav, MP3, CD, DVD Player, Video PLayer, Car-Diagnostics, Picture viewing, bluetooth phone, WiFi, USB, etc...

They don't seem to support an ipod conenction though (for real-time playing and access to the iPod's DB/content - they might be able to sync with the iPod's normal USB connection)

It's all tied together with decent-looking software. Looks like there would still be some significant integration and configuration work involved.

Bruno

At $1,699.00, it seems like a decent deal for what you get. Could be done more cheaply DIY, but no warranty or software guarantees with that. Does some nice things that regrettably the empeg is not capable of. From the video of the software, it seems to be pretty decent.

Wow, that was impressive. The handwriting recognition part was impressive as well. The software is certainly better than the Alpine units I've seen in car stereo shops.

And happy birthday, Meatball Man

That looks really sweet but $1,700 is a little steep. And the gesture system looks nice but I'd fear the wear and tear on the monitor.

Sigh. I love my empeg.

As with all systems like this (empeg included in this statement), it all comes down to the software. If the software is decent, is supported well (i.e., longevity), has good features, etc., it could be a very good deal.

Agreed. They're trying to an awful lot in one box. Engine monitoring? Navigation? Audio playing? If it worked as advertised, it would be very impressive.

But you have to admit, doing all of that in one box is a perfect task for a good piece of software and a trunk-mounted general purpose computer. Which seems to be their target here.

Note that their price point is within the range of the commercial DIN-mount DVD navigation systems.

Preaching to the choir Tony! 'Tsall about the software. Been saying it for years.

That's not to say hardware plays no part. Of course it does. But great software can still make for a great product on mediocre hardware. The best hardware in the world isn't worth much without good software however. And when you begin looking at hardware that's practically off the shelf (or at least very similar to so many other things out there) it's going to come down to software every time.

You'll see a lot of people miss this when jumping on the various mobile phone bandwagons. Can't judge those books by their covers. if you like flip phones for instance, the Motorola RAZR will probably look great to you. Until you use it - Motorola phone have always suffered from poor software. I couldn't consider anything but a Nokia or Ericsson down the proprietary route. Good hardware and looks, but it's the software that completes the sale.

Bruno

I don't generally do this sort of thing, but this thread clearly belongs in ICE, not Off Topic, so I'm moving it.

That seems like a pretty cool device.. especially like the relay card.. Shame it runs on windows

From the perspective of someone who just wants it all to just work, it doesn't really matter what OS it runs on. Most people jumping on this will likely have to have a bit of a DIY nature, but hopefully everything is in a polished enough state that you can just hand it over to a custom installer and be on your way once everything is in.

I'd say they also have a significant opportunity with car manufacturers using this platform. The latest interviewer mentions specifically that this is stepping into the realm of the higher end factory packages. To me it looks like this might offer manufacturers an easier solution for them to customize their offerings in comparison to what some others like Alpine and Pioneer bring to the table.

Bruno

And you don't think this can be built for less in volume? They're retailing the kits for $1700. There's a lot of wiggle room once you ramp the volume, and especially after a cost-reducing design round. BTW, Nav options range up to CAD$5000 - at least that's what the option cost from BMW on their cars.

so this thing is pretty cool. I wonder if it can work with Sirius. I'm also wondering if stuff can be loaded on to it other than over a wifi or usb stick. And 60GB doesnt seem like a hell of a lot for something that does mp3 and video.

maybe i'll look into it when my empegs die.

Looks pretty useless for Europe:
- the nav is based on Mappoint, but supports the US version only
- XM support but no DAB
- FM does not support RDS

Pim

The interface on this is seen here running on an Intel ultra mobile concept PC. Seems this might have quite a bit of staying power if Intel is backing them.