Apple to offer iPod integration on aircraft
Published: 16/11/2006 - Filed under: News »
Apple has announced plans to offer integration between iPods and the in-flight entertainment (IFE) systems of several major airlines from next year.
The technology provider says that the service will be installed in the cabins of Emirates, United, Continental and Delta aircraft from mid-2007. Integration will enable iPod users to listen to music and view films stored on their portable device through the carriers' IFE systems, whilst also charging their player in-flight.
Details of exactly how the integration between the iPod and the aircraft's in-seat IFE will work are sketchy at present, and it is also not clear whether the service will be available in all classes of travel. However Apple announced a similar scheme earlier this year for integrating iPods with car stereo systems in the US, and claims that over 70 per cent of 2007 model US-manufactured cars will offer iPod connectivity. Says Greg Joswiak, vice president of worldwide iPod product marketing:
"There is no better travelling companion than an iPod, and now travellers can power their iPods during flight and even watch their iPod movies and TV shows on their seat back displays. We're excited to work with Continental, Delta, Emirates and United to offer iPod users an even better in-flight experience."
Apple says it is working with IFE manufacturer Panasonic Avionics Corporation to allow additional airlines to carry the iPod integration facility in the future.
The news follows a spate of recent announcements that will allow devices normally associated with ground use to become part of in-flight reality. Both Ryanair and Emirates say they will provide passengers with onboard mobile phone services in 2007 (see online news November 9), whilst the new business and first class seating unveiled by Singapore Airlines allows passengers to plug USB memory sticks into the IFE system, to access, edit and save documents in-flight (see online news October 19).
For more information visit apple.com.
Report by Mark Caswell
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