United launches in-flight iPod & iPhone connectivity

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United launches in-flight iPod & iPhone connectivity

United Airlines has announced the launch of iPod and iPhone connectivity for its in-flight entertainment system, becoming the first U.S. carrier to offer such features. United’s system, developed by Panasonic Avionics Corporation, allows users to attach an iPod or iPhone via a 30-pin connector and view content on a 15.4-inch personal monitor, while charging the device at the same time. The system will debut later today on United flight #936 from Washington, D.C. to Zurich, and will be added to United’s entire fleet of international, widebody aircraft over the next two years. Connectivity is offered in both first and business class areas.

“Our guests may now watch or listen to what they want, when they want with programming they choose,” says Graham Atkinson, United Airlines - executive vice president and Chief Customer Officer. “United will continue to provide services and technology that makes our customers’ travel experiences more relaxed and enjoyable.”

“The iPod and iPhone have become essential for millions of travelers around the world,” said Greg Joswiak, Apple’s vice president of iPod & iPhone Product Marketing. “We think United customers are going to love being able to listen or watch personal music and video content on their iPod or iPhone via the in-flight entertainment system, and we can’t wait for United to roll this out to their fleet.”

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Comments

1

I heard this story before and I’m very impressed how much impact a device like the iPod/iPhone have. I can imagine bill gates sleeping not good at all when he figure out that microsoft actl. missed a big opportunity in this market/area.

Good Job Apple, there is always improvment and always a front runner which is A P P L E

Posted by dennis on June 16, 2008 at 12:20 PM (PDT)

2

Great. Just in time for them to go bankrupt. I wonder what the FEE will be for this? Hmm?

LOL

Southwest Airlines forever!

Posted by Matt D. on June 16, 2008 at 12:22 PM (PDT)

3

this is so stuped

Posted by stacey on June 16, 2008 at 1:16 PM (PDT)

4

Oy. First and Business class only. That end of the aircraft already has pretty nice entertainment packages. It’s a nice start tho, United continually comes up short on delivery of its promises.

Posted by drakebullet on June 16, 2008 at 1:25 PM (PDT)

5

Singapore Air Lines had been offering this facility for a while in all seats in their B777 wide body & the new A380 aircraft. Their seats even have small keyboard in the handset and Open Office Application and a USB port for your thumbdrive for you to work on your MSOffice documents.

Posted by kj on June 17, 2008 at 6:18 PM (PDT)

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