United Airlines adds iPod, iPhone connectivity to flights

Wednesday 18th June, 12:59 PM JST

United Airlines is adding iPod and iPhone connectivity to its list of in-flight entertainment. iPods can be connected to the personal television and each persons individual content can be watched during the flight while the iPod charges.

This new entertainment feature will first be available to passengers on Business and First class on trans-Atlantic flights. The entire international fleet will be configured with the iPod connectivity over the next two years. Panasonic created the 30-pin connection cord that is used on the planes to connect the iPods to United aircraft’s in-flight entertainment system.

“Our guests may now watch or listen to what they want, when they want with programming they choose,” said Graham Atkinson, United Airlines – executive vice president and Chief Customer Officer. “United will continue to provide services and technology that makes our customers’ travel experiences more relaxed and enjoyable.”

8 Comments

KyouNoNippon at 03:24 PM JST - 18th June

Very cool!
capone at 06:46 PM JST - 18th June

excellent addition United, and i hereby forgive you for slapping on the checked-bag fee
Beelzebub at 08:33 PM JST - 18th June

Delta's fares are cheaper, but since they installed touch-screens for their video games in the seat backs, one must be prepared for 13 straight hours of prodding and jostling from the idiot seated behind you all the way from Tokyo to Atlanta.
tkoind2 at 11:56 AM JST - 19th June

This is a precursor to these fee seeking airlines to start charging extra for the entertainment they provide. So the inflight movies will be a service since you can now bring your own.

But wait, there's more. Along with paying for any baqgage, I'm sure they'll add in a fee for the ipod connection too. See they have to charge for your using their tiny screens. And afterall they are allowing you to charge up your battery too.

Maybe they should start charging for optional air. I think seats should be optional too. Just put down some zabuton and blue plastic sheeting. And for low fare passengers they can just give us a rope to get out of the aircraft. No more fancy stairs or walkways.
Kwaabish at 01:21 PM JST - 19th June

“United will continue to provide services and technology that makes our customers’ travel experiences more relaxed and enjoyable.”

Can they start replacing the surly, old, fat flight attendants?
chardk1 at 01:29 PM JST - 19th June

“United will continue to provide services and technology that makes our customers’ travel experiences more relaxed and enjoyable.”

And it will continue to raise prices for them, no doubt.
Hughgarse at 04:20 PM JST - 19th June

about time
Kwaabish at 10:46 AM JST - 21st June

"about time"

Let me know when this better service and relaxation begins. Currently, their transpacific F and C-class service sucks compared to almost all Asian carriers.