There has been much talk since the launch of the iPhone 5 & the iOS6 operating system about compatibility issues with various mobile electronic devices. To help you understand what the issues are and get the most up-to-date information Car Toys has created this blog.

In September of this year Apple launched their new operating system, iOS6, concurrently with the iPhone 5. This iOS update allows customers that currently own certain iPhones to utilize many (if not all) iPhone 5 software features.

Early test results from manufacturers are stating that IOS6 upgrades have disabled or degraded some functionality as it relates to older model iPhones. These same reports have stated that the iPhone 5 is currently incompatible, or partially incompatible with some car stereos, in dash navigation decks and/or OEM connectivity solutions. All manufacturers are working on solutions to these issues.

However, if you currently own a car stereo with iPod/iPhone connectivity this upgrade could potentially make your iPhone incompatible or partially incompatible with your unit. If upgrading to iOS6 or an iPhone 5, it's important to know that compatibility with some devices could be impaired.

Examples of partial loss of features include loss of album art, app launching, iPod browsing and the ability to transmit music or video files.

New technology such as the iPhone 5 is very exciting, and Car Toys is proud to be an authorized retailer. As with many new launches of technology of this kind it can take weeks or even months for manufacturers to get caught up on compatibility.

We will continue to update our web site as information becomes available; our goal is to make any transition you may experience go as smoothly as possible. We also suggest you check with Apple and/or manufacturer web-sites for more information. As well, please feel free to stop by or call your nearest Car Toys.

The following links contain information regarding compatibility:

CE Outlook article from 10/5/12:
Alpine Posts Fix for iPhone 5 Issues

CE Outlook article from 09/25/12:
"Car Radio Makers Cite Problems with iOS6"

Thread from the Apple Support Community from 09/19/12:
"Bluetooth Music Issues after iOS6 Update"

lf you are thinking of upgrading an iPhone 4 or 4s to the new iOS6 operating system, be aware that Apple has made some changes to the Bluetooth profile that causes issues with Bluetooth streaming. These issues will require a Bluetooth update to correct. Kenwood does not recommend updating your iPhone 4 or 45 to iOS6 at this time due to loss of functionality.

Bluetooth streaming audio:
• lntermittent auto connect, and may randomly disconnect
• Loss of streaming audio connection on some models
• Loss of play/pause control and music information on some models

We recommend using a wired connection to the phone as an alternative to Bluetooth streaming. This also provides phone charging ond better sound quality.

Kenwood Receivers and iPhone5 Compatibility

The iPhone 5 no longer provides an analog output for audio or video. Devices that rely on an analog audio input will require Apple's 30 pin digital to analog adaptor to listen to audio. For devices that require an analog video input, there is no current solution available.

CD Receivers:
2009-2012 CD receivers control music playback and are compatible with the Apple's Lightning-to-USB cable (included with iPhone 5). Pandora lnternet Radio is also supported.

DNX and KIV Receivers:
2OO8-2O12 DNX receivers are currently not compatible with the iPhone 5 and do not support audio or video. Audio may be available with the Apple Lightning-to-30 pin adaptor. We will confirm when the adaptor is available (October).

DDX Receivers 2008-2010:
Current DDX receivers support audio via Apple's Lightning-to- USB cable (included with iPhone 5) but not video. Pandora lnternet Radio is also supported.

Bluetooth Compatibility:

• lntermittent auto connect, and disconnections
• Loss of streaming audio connections on some models
• Loss of play/pause control and metadata on some models

Update from Pioneer regarding iPhone compatibility issues