Parrot Launches Bluetooth Car Kit for Streaming Music

By Amy Gilroy On Oct 23 2006 - 6:00am

Parrot introduced a new universal Bluetooth stereo kit for streaming music from a cellular phone to a car radio and for hands free communication.

Shown at the Digital Life expo, held here earlier this month, the MK6000 is compatible with almost any Bluetooth cellular phone, about 250 models worldwide, said Parrot.

The MK6000 is a blue box that installs under the dash. It's hardwired into the pre-amp of the stereo and into the speakers of the car. When a call comes in over the cellphone, the music automatically mutes. It is expected to ship in Jan. with a $239 suggested retail price.

Parrot claims that Bluetooth cellular phone use in the U.S. will increase dramatically this year. Citing ABI Research, it said one out of every three phones sold in the U.S. will be Bluetooth-enabled by the end of this year, compared to one out of every six phones at the end of last year. Approximately 150 million cellphones are sold each year in the U.S.

Parrot, based in France, recently became a public company and claims to have accomplished five consecutive years of more than doubling its revenue. Parrot expects to reach $200 million in revenue this year, from about $100 million in global revenue in 2005, said president Ed Valdez.