Institute friend Peter Hesseldahl writes about iPod integration now influencing car buying:
Several people (no, not from Denmark) have told me how the integration of an ipod with the stereo system was a major factor when they choose their new, expensive car. Amazing how a $250 gadget can determine the purchase of product that's a hundred time more expensive.
Übercool adds to the story:
Few carmakers realize it yet, but seamlessly integrating an Apple iPod with a new automobile is influencing a lot of car buyers.
In one sense it's amazing, as Peter says; but two bigger trends make it make more sensible.
First, plenty of car buyers expect to spend a lot of time in their cars. In major metropolitan areas in the U.S., drivers can spend a couple hours a week-- or, added all together, several days a year-- commuting to and from work (see below). Then add shopping, chauffering kids, etc., and you get a substantial amount of time.
(Source: U.S. Census press release)
This connects to the second trend. More people-- in particular, families in the U.S.-- treat cars not just as transportation devices, but as living rooms. It's where families catch up; sometimes where they eat; and increasingly cars are equipped with comfy chairs, DVD players, and other entertainment systems. So having your music with you-- or more specifically, being able to carry some functionality from your living room to the car-- shouldn't come as a surprise.
Or perhaps the connection comes from another source: cars = mobility; iPod = mobility; ergo, cars = iPod.
What'll really be amazing is if bicycle designers start playing around with iPod integration: adding little speakers on the handlebars, say.
Adding speakers to handlebars has already been done. It's not recommended. Bicycling requires that all of your senses be focused on the task at hand. Sound is crucial. You want to hear approaching vehicles. Also, wearing headphones while bicycling is illegal in California, and probably elsewhere.
Posted by: Ray Hosler | March 08, 2006 at 09:36 AM