So, Which App Of Those Just AppRadio Certified Is The Pick Of The Litter?
So, as I mentioned when the three new apps, DashCommand, StreamS HiFi and AUPEO! were announced I'll admit I was underwhelmed. I even ranted a bit about it. I guess I just expected more after waiting almost six months. I continue to be bullish on the platform and it does what I need it to in the car, but I really want Trapster, Slacker Radio and a weather app to be compatible with my AppRadio. Also, INRIX, if you're listening you need to get an update out that fixes the crashes and display issues with AppRadio and iOS 5! All of that said, we do have some new apps and that is a good thing!
Let me say right off the bat, that I have not had a chance to sample DashCommand. It looks interesting, but I don't have the requisite OBD-II interface, so I'm not dropping $50 on the app at this point. If any of my loyal readers out there have experience with this app, please share them and I'll republish your thoughts on the app.
I did pick up the StreamS HiFi app and it's pretty good. I still need to log some more time with it to fully develop my opinion. It gives access to various AAC internet streams from established terrestrial radio stations and internet radio stations. I'll have more on it once I've used it further.
I was biased against AUPEO! at first because it was another internet radio app and it wasn't Slacker. So far I like the app a lot, but I'm not sure I like the playlists it uses. The interface is really slick and I like it's genre navigation and it's mood function. Somehow, I feel like most of the music it puts out is somehow out of sync with my expectations, though. I wonder if it's playlists are programmatic instead of being curated by an actual human.
If I had to pick one right now, I'd go with AUPEO! because its interface is attractive, functional and focused on easy use while driving. I need more time with StreamS HiFi, though, so I'll report back after spending some more time using it to let you all know if my opinion has changed.