GM to offer USB ports for media devices in certain car models

That sounds great especially for the "new generation" crowd that has problems setting the clock on there vcr. But when I buy my next car, I want the most MPG possible and a "fancypants" USB adapter on a monster SUV isn't going to do anything for me.

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The USB ports will be identical to those found on personal computers.

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Interesting, this would mean that some sort of software takes over the iPod. I only say this because if it is indeed identical to a USB on your PC etc. the iPod automatically goes into "Hard Drive mode" because it is connected to a computer.

Obviously, I am missing something here but the idea that the USB port is identical to a computer's port had that thought run through my head.

Microsoft already does this on select Ford models. You can even use verbal commands. http://www.syncmyride.com/ .

Originally posted by gallagher:

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Microsoft already does this on select Ford models. You can even use verbal commands. http://www.syncmyride.com/ .

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i'm wondering if, when they say identical to a computer's, they really mean it.

if it's anything like what i understand of ford/microsoft's "sync system," it may very well be so.
what i gather is that their system "indexes" the files on the player, allowing you to play via voice command.

you can't just plug any old player, eg. an ipod, into any usb port on any device and navigate its library.
it doesn't quite work like a "mass storage compatible" hdd or flash drive.
i've been told, however, that you can plug either into a sync system usb port and play from them.
goodbye digital audio player, hello much cheaper mass storage device.

i would assume these radios work on a very similar system, although i don't know about voice command.
controlling playback with voice, however, would be totally extraneous for me.

USB ports are the way to go. I've had new decks put in both cars. What a difference using flash drives instead of hauling CD albums around in the cars. We just took a trip 15 hours each way. All I brought with was a 16gb drive. Had music both ways playing jukebox style and never heard the same song twice.

I just bought a 2008 HHR SS and it, unfortunately, does not have the USB ports. However, I did pay a visit to my chevy show room to take a look at the 2009 and the USB port is identical to a computer. You can plug in your iPod (not sure on other MP3 players and usb devices yet and the dealership does not know) and it has bluetooth which you can link to your phone and use voice commands. This basically what the Ford Sync is anyway. I did not ask if you could command your radio that way but I guess it is possible.

I am kind of regretting getting the 2008 but since I know the owner of the dealership he said he will find out if it is self contained in the radio and what needs to be done to upgrade it. If it is just a radio swap he may be able to warranty a replacement with the new one. I have the iPod accessory cable but I would love to attach my phone so I can just call without a stupid headset.

Originally posted by jony218:

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That sounds great especially for the "new generation" crowd that has problems setting the clock on there vcr. But when I buy my next car, I want the most MPG possible and a "fancypants" USB adapter on a monster SUV isn't going to do anything for me.

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Or perhaps the old timers that never learned the differences between "There", THEIR" and perhaps "They're" . After all, they would probably rate the same level regarding their automotive knowledge. Who would expect them to be aware that GM is a world leader in Hybrid technology, builds more fuel efficient vehicles than Ford and in fact, the COBALT range is toe to toe with the imports in it's class. In fact, the Cobalt actually manages to outperform and out mile most if not all of them.

Parrots, simple, mindless PARROTS. Only able to repeat what they hear (Here? to them ??). Even lies and distortions.

Originally posted by GaryCee:

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Originally posted by jony218:

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That sounds great especially for the "new generation" crowd that has problems setting the clock on there vcr. But when I buy my next car, I want the most MPG possible and a "fancypants" USB adapter on a monster SUV isn't going to do anything for me.

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Or perhaps the old timers that never learned the differences between "There", THEIR" and perhaps "They're" . After all, they would probably rate the same level regarding their automotive knowledge. Who would expect them to be aware that GM is a world leader in Hybrid technology, builds more fuel efficient vehicles than Ford and in fact, the COBALT range is toe to toe with the imports in it's class. In fact, the Cobalt actually manages to outperform and out mile most if not all of them.

Parrots, simple, mindless PARROTS. Only able to repeat what they hear (Here? to them ??). Even lies and distortions.

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Thanks for expressing that so well. I'd like to add a rant about the constant use of "myself".

Originally posted by jony218:

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That sounds great especially for the "new generation" crowd that has problems setting the clock on there vcr. But when I buy my next car, I want the most MPG possible and a "fancypants" USB adapter on a monster SUV isn't going to do anything for me.

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Chalk it up to inexperience ?
Do your (not you're)homework. The USB adaptor is on many of GM cars that are in fact class leaders in THEIR (not "there") respective classes. Perhaps , being a "junior" you may have to settle for a fancypants tricycle and an iPOD ? The tricycle will get you there (not THEIR or THEY'RE) with minimum fuel and probably without a runaway throttle situation. Best of luck !

No doubt a product of the public school system. A perfect supportive example for home schooling !

Too bad this doesn't work with the iphone though, it will only work with an ipod, why? i have no idea, kind of frustrating