CES 2016: Kenwood and JVC Introduce New CarPlay and Apple Music Systems

by Mitchel Broussard

In addition to Pioneer and JBL, Kenwood and JVC have announced new aftermarket CarPlay systems at CES 2016. Kenwood's new CarPlay receivers build upon its existing eXcelon lineup, while JVC's flagship KW-V820BT model is the brand's first CarPlay-enabled multimedia unit.

Kenwood's lineup of 15 new multimedia receivers feature upgraded processors for improved stability and faster startup, a new graphic user interface, and customizable aspects like shortcuts and background wallpapers. Regarding CarPlay, Kenwood mentioned the total number of models that support Apple's system has been boosted from four to eight, "encompassing the four new topline models across KENWOOD and KENWOOD eXcelon."

 
JVC's new CarPlay-supported KW-V820BT model

For the JVC model, the company noted that its KW-V820BT system has been upgraded with high-resolution audio playback, three sets of 4-volt RCA outputs, and a built-in, 50-watt x 4 MOSFET amplifier, which JVC said makes the new experience "an ideal factory radio replacement." All of this is in addition to CarPlay, which will grant users the usual array of access to Apple's ecosystem of navigation, phone calls, and music, all with a connected iPhone.

“Apple CarPlay is just now beginning to gain momentum in the marketplace,” said JVC Mobile Marketing Manager Hazim Jainoor. “We feel we are entering the market at the ideal time with the KW-V820BT, and with a feature set that really presents drivers with a premium choice for that coveted space in the dash.”

In addition to CarPlay support, JVC also announced integrated service with both Spotify and Apple Music during CES this week. After communicating with a connected iPhone, Apple Music subscribers will be able to access all of their saved playlists, radio stations, and songs on the new JVC system. Although Spotify will be made available on all of the company's systems, Apple Music will see one exclusion on the KW-V620BT model.