CEoutlook celebrated its 10th anniversary this year, and we’re marking the occasion with a look back at the top stories in car audio over the last decade.
When we first launched in 2010, it was another time of upheaval–the great recession. Many Americans lost their homes, car sales ground to a halt and Wall Street required a bailout. But it was also a time of great technological growth that continues into today.
By 2011, iPad installs in cars were the rage and OnStar was about to enter the aftermarket with its smart mirror.
Looking at the past 10 years as a whole, the top stories on CEoutlook.com for all time were:
Aftermarket Heating & Cooling Seats from Katzkin
Another iPad Mini In-Dash Kit Debuts
Sony Intros Super High Power Deck (No Amp Needed)
(Note: These accrued clicks over several years).
We thank you all for reading CEoutlook and look forward to bringing you more news in the future!
Top Stories By Year:
2012
Alpine introduces a “larger” radio screen, measuring 8 inches. Mini amplifiers are released that are small enough to fit on motorcycles.
Top Stories:
Kenwood Intro’s Ford Sync Radio Replacement–Kenwood teamed up with Automotive Data Solutions (ADS) to let Ford owners swap out their factory radio for a Kenwood navigation system.
Kicker to Enter Walmart in September–Kicker entered Walmart in September with a limited number of entry-level products.
Car Radio Makers Cite Problems with iOS6–Some consumers who upgraded to iOS 6 initially found problems with Bluetooth control.
2013
Top Stories:
Car Audio Installers’ Legal Challenge – A cautionary tale on installing “traps” (hidden compartments) in cars.
Dealer iPad Mini In-Car Dash Kit Available
Another iPad Mini In-Dash Kit Debuts
2014
CarPlay Enters the market. The Elite Distributor Alliance, EDA, the first car audio distributor group, launches at the close of the year.
Top Stories:
Aftermarket Heating & Cooling Seats from Katzkin
Rockford Launches its First Superwoofer
Sony Intros First All-Smartphone Cradle Radio
2015
Android Auto launches; Hi-Res Audio in the car wins attention with Sony’s first HRA deck, which was the year’s number 4 story in CEoutlook (included below).
There were several mergers and acquisitions in 2015, including the purchase of Al & Ed’s Autosound, Dual Electronics’ Purchase of Jensen, AAMP’s purchase of Rosen, and the completion of the merger of Escort and Cobra. Harman also bought Bang & Olufsen’s Automotive Business.
Top Stories:
Sony Intros Super High Power Deck (No Amp Needed)
Wireless CarPlay is Here…Sort of
Rockford’s Superwoofer to Ship by March
Sony Shows First In-Dash Hi-Res Car Audio With Extended Range
2016
“Before the amplifier” technology debuts. Clarion exits the brick and mortar US market
Top Stories:
Rockford No Power Amp Ships in August
Here’s the First Radar Detector to Work With Car Radios
New Car Stereo Brand From 90’s Innovator
2017
Powersports audio sales take off.
Top Stories:
New Radios Bring a Tesla-Style Screen to Your Truck
21 Year-Old Opens Car Audio Shop and Kills It
2018
Pioneer is purchased by Hong Kong firm Baring Private Equity Asia. Avidworx and Clarion are also purchased. Tariffs on Chinese goods disrupt pricing and product plans.
The first radios with both wireless CarPlay AND Android Auto debut from Pioneer, and Alexa voice control enters car radios.
Top Stories:
Sony Ships Low-Priced CarPlay Deck
JL Audio Intros DSP Amplifiers
Two Audiophile Car Audio Brands You May Have Missed
2019
Top Stories:
Ford Makes Phone Remote Start Free For Life
Note: Statistics were not available for years 2010-2011.
Amy,
Congratulations on milestone accomplishment. You have forged an important place in our Industry and provided timely and accurate reporting of relevant info and trends in 12V realm. Here’s to your success and the next decade of excellence!
Congrats! All such great stories