Bluetooth music-streaming for Hyundais

If only powertrain technology could evolve at the same rate as electronics -- particularly the electronics of in-car entertainment systems.

A new audio system from Hyundai integrates Bluetooth connectivity to play music from an iPod or answer your phone. The Korean importer claims a first in introducing this technology to the Australian market.

Hyundai will roll out the new technology to other models down the track, but initially, the Getz and Tucson are the only vehicles in the range to offer the feature, which bundles in the one system two previously disparate types of technology.

For the audio system to work as a hands-free platform for phone calls, the user's mobile phone must be Bluetooth-capable in the first instance. The Bluetooth audio system will store as many as 78 phone contacts in a built-in phone book facility. Incoming calls will display the name and number in the head unit's display if it matches an entry in the phone book.

Bluetooth-capable iPods or other MP3 players can connect to the car's audio system either by hard-wired means (USB or standard 3.5mm auxiliary input) or by wireless connection.

Through the USB connection, the audio system will also play both MP3 and WMA files from a memory stick. Music players connected either by USB or wireless can be controlled through the car's head unit from remote controls on the steering wheel or at the head unit itself. The audio system's CD facility will also play MP3 and WMA files on disc.

As well as a host of other advanced features, the audio system can pair up to six Bluetooth devices and accepts firmware upgrades through the USB connection.

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