For the time being, TuneLink Auto is a truly unique and occasionally very impressive car accessory for iPod touches, iPhones, and iPads—a next-generation version of a product that we’ve seen and reviewed many times before, executing on most of its features in ways that most people wouldn’t have expected. It surpasses common chargers by offering full iPad support, typical FM transmitters by offering app-assisted volume and sharing features, and past audio kits by operating in a completely wireless or semi-wired mode as you prefer. TuneLink Auto’s small size and ability to be used completely without cables makes it impressively pocketable, while the included wires expand its abilities to rival the features of past car kits.

Unlike its competitors, which connect to the iPhone or iPod with cables, the TuneLink Auto connects via Bluetooth. In addition to using the iPhone's built-in GPS to find clear frequencies to broadcast on, the TuneLink Auto uses technology to eliminate hum and interference, resulting in a clearer sound with less need to change stations.

We've never been on the volunteer cheerleading squad for FM transmitters; in our experience, they're downright useless in cities or other areas that actually have a large amount of radio stations nearby. But we'll hand it to New Potato Technologies -- this may be the slickest implementation yet. The newly announced TuneLink Auto looks like a typical cigarette adapter charger at first glance, but within, there's technology that accepts audio over Bluetooth and then sends it out over FM. This prevents users from having to connect a dongle of any kind to their iPad, iPod touch or iPhone, but the built-in USB port is actually capable of charging all three should you choose. There's even a 3.5mm output jack for channeling the tunes to a 3.5mm input on your head unit, and the (necessary) accompanying iDevice app should hit the App Store soon for absolutely nothing. The hardware itself is available now from New Potato for $99.99, and it'll hit "select retail locations" in a fortnight or so for the same amount.

TuneLink Auto, as an FM transmitter for connecting my iPhone to my car’s music system, works better than any other system I’ve used to date. No FM system is perfect, but TuneLink Auto’s combination of hardware and software work together to make it a level about any hardware-only solution. Will it stand toe to toe with Mr. Boxster? No, but you won’t have to strain to hear your tunes over his, and that’s a big plus in my book. Add to that the ability to have your music automagically fire up from where you last played, regardless of whether you use the FM feature or the AUX option, is a blast. The TuneLink Auto Auto app lets you share and control your music in your car like never before. It’s easy to use and loaded with features. The TuneLink Auto dongle is so simple to use once you’ve made the Bluetooth connection; just decide whether to use FM or AUX. If you’re using FM then select a channel, tune your radio, and listen. Using AUX is even easier, it’s already playing.

The TuneLink Auto plugs into your car’s power jack and interfaces with your iOS device via Bluetooth. The front of the device sports a USB port that lets you keep your device charged while you use it and a 3.5mm line-level audio output jack to transmit audio directly to your car’s auxiliary audio input. If your car’s stereo doesn’t have an aux-in jack, don’t worry: the TuneLink also has a built-in FM transmitter. TuneLink Auto also keeps the driver’s safety in mind by reducing distractions; when a call comes in, the app automatically switches to your existing Bluetooth or wired headset. When the call is finished, TuneLink switches back to playing your music, so you can easily take calls without taking your eyes off the road.

Although the Belkin AirCast Auto was made to be simple solution, it doesn’t quite deliver as a package. While the audio quality streaming music is good, the outgoing audio on calls isn’t up to the same standard and can be frustrating. And while the handsfree operation is meant to be simple through its one button, some of the important functions aren’t compatible with the iPhone. As a contrast, the quality of the TuneLink and its app shines through, showing a lot of thought in the design of both. From the fast charge USB port, the auto play and connect settings and FM transmitter control, the TuneLink includes almost everything for the ultimate in-car solution and is my recommendation of the two; with a good quality microphone and handsfree function it would be an absolute smash.