KENWOOD USA announced it is set to ship two new smartphone-compatible multimedia receivers this month. The Excelon DDX6902S (MSRP $850.00) and DDX6702S (MSRP $800.00) expand the family of units equipped with Apple® CarPlay®, the Apple-produced in-vehicle interface for iPhone®. 
While the pair’s predecessors—the Excelon DDX9902S and DDX9702S—are equipped with both Android™ Auto (a smartphone interface made by Google to work with late-model Android-powered smartphones) and Apple CarPlay, the two new units focus solely on the iPhone. Siri®, Apple’s voice-activated and voice-responsive intelligent assistant, is the user’s primary interface to select entertainment options, open apps, reply to text messages and get turn-by-turn directions.
“We are committed to enhancing the connected lifestyle,” said Tony Mercado, marketing manager for KENWOOD. “iPhone users have deeply integrated relationships with their devices, and extending the safe function of those devices in the vehicle is vital. Adding the Excelon DDX6902S and DDX6702S to our current flagship units lets us deliver that fun and functionality to more consumers at lower price points.”
Each multimedia receiver features a high-sensitivity, 6.2-inch screen bordered on the left by a physical knob and menu buttons. In addition to controlling the multimedia unit, the screen connects to an optional back-up camera to automatically show the view behind the vehicle while in reverse gear.
Onboard entertainment options include a full suite of content including digital channels via HD Radio®, CD and DVD, and terrestrial AM and FM. Both units are also SiriusXM-Ready™ and can connect to the optional SXV300 tuner (sold separately) to access hundreds of audio channels (subscription required). With a connected smartphone, the entertainment options increase with built-in control of Pandora® Internet Radio and iHeartRadio®.
Built-in amplifiers enable each unit to power directly connected speakers, making them ideal drop-in replacements for factory radios. For custom applications, the Excelon DDX6902S includes three 5-volt pre-amp outputs and a 7-band equalizer. The Kenwood DDX6702S includes three 4-volt pre-amp outputs and a 5-band EQ. For more details please visit the Kenwood website at  www.kenwood.com/usa.