The new buzzword in automotive electronics is "infotainment." More and more cars are becoming mobile media centers. Sonic Solutions, in collaboration with QNX Software Systems, is breaking into the growing market opportunity for automobile entertainment with the updated CinePlayer CE Navigator, which is now compatible with the QNX Neutrin real-time operating system.

As an integrated component of QNX Neutrino, CinePlayer Navigator lets automobile manufacturers offer passenger entertainment systems that deliver media playback and navigation. CinePlayer CE Navigator is a software-based DVD playback engine based on the same technology trusted by Hollywood studios. The technology also provides advanced functions like anamorphic widescreen video, motion menus, and multiple video angles.

According to analysis from Frost & Sullivan the revenue for North American Automotive Infotainment Systems Markets totaled $2.01 billion in 2004 and is projected to more than double to $4.84 billion by 2011. "CinePlayer Navigator's entry into the automotive sector, once again reinforces the broad market appeal of our technology," said Jim Taylor, senior VP and general manager of Sonic's Advanced Technology Group, "[It is] helping to shape and influence consumers' digital media experience on an ever increasing number of consumer electronic devices."