French technology company Parrot , the team behind the A.R Drone, wants to get people talking in the car, launching a new range of Android-powered car entertainment systems in Australia this month.
Although the new Asteroid systems all run Android under the hood, Parrot has customised the user interface and experience - similar to how Amazon customised Android for the Kindle Fire HD - to ensure the systems are all safe to use while driving.
Smarter than your average asteroid
There are four models in the new asteroid range, all requiring professional installation. Two models - the Asteroid Mini and Asteroid Tablet - connect to your vehicle's current sound system and add an additional touchscreen that mounts on your dashboard for easy viewing of information.
The Mini features a 3.2-inch touchscreen with wireless remote control and starts at $399. The Tablet, meanwhile, increases the screen size to five inches, offers advanced audio settings and is priced at $549.
The other two models - the Asteroid Classic and the Asteroid Smart - replace your car's current head unit, as a single DIN and double DIN screen.
For anyone who bought the 2011 model Asteroid Classic, a firmware update will soon be available to deliver the new connected features.
New Classics will set you back $449, and includes a 3.2-inch colour screen and full audio controls. The double DIN Asteroid Smart, meanwhile, allows you to simultaneously connect two smartphones, controlling the device using your voice or the 6.2-inch touchscreen, and sells for $999.