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Starting in late December, Chrysler Group LLC will take claim as the first U.S. automaker to offer live mobile television in its Chrysler, Jeep and Dodge vehicles. Programming for up to 20 channels will come through FLO TV[TM] Auto Entertainment and will offer shows for nearly everyone. As of now, the lineup includes CBS Mobile, CNBC, Comedy Central, FOX News, MSNBC, MTV, Nickelodeon, and more.

While companies have offered "live" TV in the past through large and expensive roof-mounted satellite dishes, the Mopar system captures signals through a mouse-size roof antenna. The feed arrives via a dedicated multicast network from FLO TV (a wholly owned subsidiary of Qualcomm Inc.). The associated receiver and wiring are all hidden, so that they remain out of view to the vehicle's occupants. Utilizing the existing DVD system's 7-inch display, passengers will be able to use a wireless remote control to surf channels, much like they do with current home-based systems.

The $629 (plus installation) package will be offered as a deal-installed option on most new Chrysler SUV/minivan products, and may be retrofitted to some older vehicles equipped with DVD entertainment systems. The cost of system, however, includes a one-year pre-paid FLO TV service subscription. As long as Sponge Bob is on, we're sure many of Chrysler's smallest customers will be quite happy.

[Source: Chrysler]Continue reading Chrysler gets in-car TV going with FLO TV

Chrysler gets in-car TV going with FLO TV originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 04 Nov 2009 18:41:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.