Fresh Pioneer Corporation docs just landed in the FCC database of a so-called AppRadio, or as it’s named in one document, iPhone Control Receiver. The unit, SPH-DA01, has a whole host of testing documents in the database but only two are are all that interesting. The user manual names this device AppRadio and then there’s an unflattering picture that shows a center-mounted iPhone button.
Unfortunately said manual seems to be only the first couple pages and not the entire thing, leaving more questions than answers. The manual doesn’t have any screenshots, fancy graphics or descriptions supporting the tantalizingly name. However, in standard FCC operating procedure, there are external and internal photos of the unit and the external one clearly shows a glossy unit with an iPhone-ish center mounted button and a volume rocker off to the side. The whole design is a clear departure from Pioneer’s traditionally style that generally includes lighted capacitive buttons and a matte screen.
The rest of the documents talk about iPhone connectivity but that’s a standard feature on today’s car audio head units. Still, this one just feels right. That button, the model number clearly describing a first-gen device, even the timing as Apple is pushing into more niche markets makes this one feel legit. Hopefully Pioneer or Apple doesn’t keep this one under wraps for long. [FCC]