The iPod Integration Kit for Mercedes-Benz, making Mercedes-Benz the first automaker to provide full iPod music navigation for drivers to listen to their entire iPod music collection through the Mercedes-Benz audio system, as well as select their music using artist, album or playlist with the multifunction controls on the steering wheel and the integrated multifunction display in their instrument cluster.
“Music lovers want to listen to their digital music in their cars, and we’re delighted to be working with Mercedes-Benz to offer a fully integrated solution,” said Steve Jobs, Apple’s CEO. “The iPod Integration Kit for Mercedes-Benz features the quality and attention to detail Mercedes is famous for, perfectly complementing Apple’s innovative iPod.”
“We are very excited to partner with Apple to deliver this wonderful solution,” said Paul Halata, President and CEO of Mercedes-Benz USA. “Bringing motorists the world’s most elegant iPod solution with full navigation and display continues the Mercedes tradition of offering our customers the innovation and premium quality they expect.”
The iPod Integration Kit for Mercedes-Benz provides outstanding sound quality while charging the iPod, and conveniently connects and stores in the glove compartment. The solution also allows the driver to “See What You’re Hearing” with music title or playlist information shown on the integrated multifunction display in the instrument cluster. Drivers will be able to easily access their entire iPod music library, shuffle songs and skip between tracks and playlists.
Hear your favorite iPod tunes in your Mercedes-Benz
When you integrate your iPod with your Mercedes-Benz, you get a factory-engineered solution that gives you everything you love about your iPod in the vehicle you love to drive. No workarounds, no limitations
Ready, dock, go
Simply dock your iPod into the specialized port in the glovebox and you’re ready to go. Your iPod stays securely attached and out of view in its glovebox port, and continually charges — even as it’s playing. Using your iPod in your Mercedes is just as easy and convenient as using your iPod alone. Has high-end technology ever been this simple?
iPod products, sold separately, are available in the US through the Apple Store and authorized Apple resellers.
FAQ’s
What is the iPod Integration Kit for Mercedes-Benz?
The iPod Integration Kit for Mercedes-Benz is an integrated system solution that provides connectivity between a customer’s iPod device and the electronic and audio systems of the Mercedes-Benz vehicle. The solution offers the ability to connect and stow the iPod device with a specially designed interface in the glovebox that charges the iPod device while allowing the driver to manipulate iPod menus and device functions via the multifunction steering wheel buttons. Also, the driver can conveniently reference the iPod menu, playlist, and artist or title information on the multifunction display on the dashboard.
What is included with the iPod Integration Kit for Mercedes-Benz?
The kit includes a unique physical interface for the glovebox, as well as all software to support vehicle system integration and interface functionality. The iPod device is sold separately, and is not included with the iPod Integration Kit for Mercedes-Benz.
With which iPod devices is the solution compatible?
The iPod Integration Kit for Mercedes-Benz is compatible with any iPod device equipped with a dock interface and the latest iPod firmware installed. This includes iPod, iPod mini, and iPod photo.
What is the price of the iPod Integration Kit for Mercedes-Benz?
The MSRP for the dealer-installed solution begins at $299 plus installation.
Is the solution covered under warranty?
If installed at the time of initial vehicle delivery, the iPod Integration Kit is covered under the standard term of the MBUSA New Vehicle Limited Warranty (4 years or 50,000 miles, whichever comes first). If installed after initial vehicle delivery, the iPod Integration Kit is covered for the remainder of the New Vehicle Limited Warranty or one year, whichever is greater.
How is the iPod Integration Kit for Mercedes-Benz different from after-market solutions?
The Mercedes-Benz solution is specifically engineered for Mercedes-Benz vehicle systems. This solution provides increased functionality over after-market solutions, such as device function manipulation via the multifunction steering-wheel controls and view of the iPod device data on the multifunction display. Because Mercedes-Benz vehicle systems do not recognize the iPod device as a CD-changer component as competitive solutions do, customers can use both the CD changer and the iPod device without sacrificing one for the other. Also, unlike after-market solutions, the Mercedes-Benz kit is covered under warranty.
If the iPod Integration Kit for Mercedes-Benz is installed, are other devices such as the CD changer nullified?
No. Because this solution recognizes the iPod device as a unique input, other audio inputs such as CD changers can still be utilized.