Parrot launches Asteroid Market for its Android-based receivers

LAS VEGAS--At last year's CES, Parrot expanded its line of Asteroid line of Android-powered car stereo receivers to three models. For 2013, it is making it easier for developers to create apps to feed it.

The apps that power the Parrot Asteroid are installed directly on the unit itself and don't necessarily require a smartphone to run, so Parrot needed to create an easy way to funnel these apps to the users.

After launching the Asteroid Market on an Asteroid device, users can browse a variety of driver-centric apps in a variety of categories. Parrot tells us that there will also be a Web portal that's accesible via a traditional browser.

Parrot's Market will offer apps for audio streaming, navigation, location services, and other car-appropriate services. Many apps are free, but some will cost money. App selection will vary from country to country.

Parrot is also launching a developers' portal to help programmers adapt their apps to the App Radio hardware.

The Asteroid Market will be available on all of the Asteroid models when it launches later this year.