Parrot MINIKIT Smart: Get More Out of Your Smartphone!

SOUTHFIELD, Mich., Nov. 2, 2010 /PRNewswire/ -- In order to fully benefit from telephone and navigation capabilities of Smartphones, Parrot, leader of wireless peripherals for mobile phones, created the first Bluetooth hands-free and multifunction kit adapted to all models and compatible with all operating systems: Parrot MINIKIT Smart.

(Photo:  http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20101102/DE93170 )

(Photo:  http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20101102/DE93170 )

A docking bay for all Smartphones

The Parrot MINIKIT Smart is a Bluetooth® hands-free kit for the vehicle with a docking bay designed for all Smartphones, whatever their size (from 56mm to 70mm width).

The connection between the two devices is done via Bluetooth and the MINIKIT Smart can simultaneously manage hands-free conversations and navigation applications available on Smartphones. Calls and GPS guidance will be broadcast through the 2W speaker integrated in the MINIKIT Smart.

Depending on the capability of each Smartphone, the MINIKIT Smart could put on hold the GPS functions, and restart them once the conversation ends.

MINIKIT Smart is compatible with all navigation software available (free or paid) and all operating systems: Android, iOS, Windows Mobile, Blackberry, Symbian, Bada, etc.  

The MINIKIT Smart allows drivers and passengers to always be reachable and not lose their way, even on long trips.  When the Smartphone is docked in the MINIKIT Smart, it can recharge via one of the USB cables included in the box. (Micro USB, Mini USB, Apple).

A smart solution, with no installation

The Parrot MINIKIT Smart is equipped with a swiveling suction cup to be fixed on the windshield or the dashboard of the vehicle. The docking bay is equipped with a magnet for quick and easy positioning.

Once positioned, the MINIKIT Smart can be set to portrait or landscape mode so that the screen of the Smartphone is easily seen by the driver.

To enable high-quality conversations, the MINIKIT Smart is equipped with a retractable microphone that can be positioned according to the interior of the vehicle. The Parrot MINIKIT Smart has one-week autonomy on standby, 10 hours of talk time and can be recharged using the in-vehicle DC power outlet.

Advanced hands-free functionalities

Once paired with a smartphone via Bluetooth, the MINIKIT Smart synchronizes and automatically updates its phonebook. The MINIKIT Smart can store up to 10 different phone books (2,000 contacts per Smartphone), and can then be used by several drivers.

Thanks to the voice synthesis of the names and a voice recognition system that requires no prior training or installation, the phonebook is available without changing any settings on the Smartphone.

To call one of the contacts in the phonebook, simply say the name and the MINIKIT Smart will dial the number. If several numbers are associated with a contact, the MINIKIT Smart will offer options and the user can vocally choose one.

Price and availability: Parrot MINIKIT Smart will be available in November 2010 at $129.99 MSRP through BestBuy.com, Crutchfield.com, 6th Avenue Electronics, Car Toys Al & Ed's, ABT Electronics, Car Toys, 6th Avenue Electronics, Fry's Electronics, Bell Canada and ParrotShopping.com.

Technical information available at: http://www.parrot.com/fr/produits/kits-mains-libres-Bluetooth-portable

For more information about the Parrot MINIKIT Smart or Parrot hands-free car systems, please visit www.parrot.com or contact:

Even though you have a hands-free solution: always be careful on the road!

Driving requires all of your attention. Calling while you are driving may induce careless behavior. A Bluetooth hands-free solution contributes to reducing risks but does not avoid them completely. Parrot reminds you that it is important to behave responsibly while driving:

• Do not hold your mobile phone while calling in the car
• Warn the person you are talking to that you are driving and should keep the conversation short
• Do not become involved in a complicated or emotional conversation
• If the conversation prevents you from driving cautiously, please, hang up
• If possible, park your car in a safe place (not on the hard shoulder or at a red light)
• Keep your hands on the wheel and use the voice commands
• Never text (SMS) while driving

About PARROT

Parrot, a global leader in wireless devices for mobile phones, stands on the cutting edge of innovation. The company was founded in 1994 by Henri Seydoux as part of his determination to drive the inevitable breakthrough of mobile phones into everyday life by creating high-quality, user-friendly wireless devices for easy living. Parrot has developed the most extensive range of hands-free systems on the market for cars, motorbikes and scooters, including wireless multimedia products geared towards audiovisual applications. In 2008, Parrot launched a new prestige line of high-end products bearing the hallmark of renowned artists and in 2010, the AR.Drone, the first quadricopter piloted via Wi-Fi and using augmented reality.

Parrot, headquartered in Paris, currently employs 450 people worldwide and generates 85% of its sales overseas. Parrot is listed on NYSE Euronext Paris since 2006. (FR0004038263 – PARRO)

More information : www.parrot.com / www.ardrone.com / www.parrotoem.com

®The Bluetooth word mark and logos are owned by the Bluetooth SIG, Inc. and any use of such marks by Parrot S.A. is under license. Other trademarks and trade names are those of their respective owners.

Tous droits reserves. Les marques PARROT figurant sur ce document sont la propriete exclusive de la societe PARROT. Toutes les autres marques sont la propriete de leurs detenteurs respectifs et sont utilisees sous licence par la societe PARROT

SOURCE Parrot