Bluetooth capabilities on the Pioneer AppRadio 4 (SPH-DA120) have received marked improvements over previous generation models. The biggest difference is the ability to browse through your music library while streaming music over Bluetooth. This couldn't be done on the AppRadio 3.
More details are below...
I found Bluetooth connectivity to be much better in general on the AppRadio 4. The device connects to my iPhone 6 instantly and will start playing your music in a few moments after you click Bluetooth Streaming.
The one thing that hasn't seemed to change yet is there is no album art displayed when streaming music wirelessly. This is only a minor shortcoming at the moment. Song metadata is displayed accurately though.
The AppRadio 4 uses the Advanced Audio Distribution Profile (A2DP) for wireless audio streaming, and Audio Video Remote Control Profile (AVRCP) version 1.4 for wireless control of devices and related metadata with the ability to browse music libraries on smartphones wirelessly.
Streaming works well for both, iOS and Android smartphones.
To browse through your library, click on the 'Browse' icon located along the right side of the Bluetooth Streaming player control screen. This will show up the Root directory of your connected smartphone the first time. From there you can browse through Artists, Songs, Albums, Playlists etc. like you would on your smartphone itself.
Browse from the root folder of your smartphone |
Browsing memory allows to pick up browsing where you left from, thereby avoiding the need to go through folder levels each time you browse. Memory is reset each time you turn off the unit though.
If using an iPhone, you can even browse through your saved iTunes Radio stations. Bluetooth Streaming is also available for Pandora on the AppRadio 4.
iTunes Radio stations are also available over Bluetooth |
This improved Bluetooth functionality is also available on the AVIC-8000NEX, AVIC-7000NEX, AVIC-6000NEX, AVIC-5000NEX and AVH-4000NEX receivers from Pioneer. Other 2014 head units also have the feature.
Which Android phones support this "browse library over bluetooth streaming" functionality out of the box? If not out of the box, which app can help me achieve this? I am desperate to jump ship from iOS to Android.
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