Sony Helps Drivers Keep Their Hands on the Wheel

Sony's new AM/FM CD receiver for the car with Bluetooth® technology (model MEX-BT2500) multi-tasks as both a CD player and a wireless streaming device.

Drivers can make safe, hands-free phone calls, listen to MP3 formatted CDs or wirelessly connect to Bluetooth-compatible digital music players on the road.

"This car stereo offers more functionality for less," said Brennan Mullin, director of marketing for mobile electronics at Sony Electronics. "With Bluetooth hands-free technology and audio streaming capabilities, you can't afford not to have it in the car. This is a perfect solution so drivers can communicate on their cell phones while driving."

Call 'Em on It

The MEX-BT2500 head unit, the company's second audio-streaming AM/FM CD receiver with wireless Bluetooth® technology, is easily paired with compatible Bluetooth enabled cellular phones. Up to five different phones can be linked to the receiver so the whole family can enjoy connectivity. An integrated microphone behind the faceplate eliminates the need for additional wiring, so the installation process is as quick and easy as an ordinary car stereo. Additionally, noise cancellation and echo reduction technology serve to enhance phone call clarity.

Music on the Road

Music-storing phones with Bluetooth technology supporting A2DP (Advanced Audio Distribution Profile), including some Sony Ericsson Walkman® phones, will allow audio streaming from the handset to the MEX-BT2500 head unit. Consumers can check online whether their phone is compatible (either hands-free, audio streaming or both) by visiting the following link: www.sony.com/xplod.

For drivers who carry their music libraries on Bluetooth-enabled digital music players, the MEX-BT2500 unit supports both wired and wireless playback. Using Bluetooth technology, it's easy to play, pause, skip, fast-forward or back up songs. Key information including album, artist and track appears on the display through the wireless connection.

For non-Bluetooth digital music players, you can connect through the front auxiliary input on the front of the car stereo with an audio cable (not included). The CD player supports multiple codecs, including MP3 and WMA.

Crystal Clear Sound

The MEX-BT2500 car stereo delivers 52 watts across four channels to help ensure rich, clear sound. Blue key illumination looks good in nearly any dashboard, while the detachable faceplate provides an added measure of security.

Pricing and Availability

The MEX-BT2500 car stereo will be priced around $180. It will be available in March both online at www.sonystyle.com and at authorized retailers nationwide.

Sony offers many Bluetooth-enabled products, including car stereos, headsets, headphones, shelf systems, a boombox, transmitters, receivers, a speaker system and VAIO computers.

  Contact:
  Linda Barger
  Sony Electronics Inc.
  linda.barger@am.sony.com

  William Byrne
  Burson Marsteller
  will.byrne@bm.com

SOURCE: Sony Electronics Inc.

CONTACT: Linda Barger of Sony Electronics Inc., +1-858-942-2986,
linda.barger@am.sony.com; or William Byrne of Burson Marsteller,
+1-312-596-3555, will.byrne@bm.com, for Sony Electronics Inc.

Web site: http://www.sonystyle.com/

Web site: http://www.sony.com/xplod