That's a lot like the new IceLink from Dension. Though their unit is designed around the SONY interface and uses third party adapters for other brands, including OEM units.

The Alpine is one step beyond because the head unit itself has been designed with this connection in mind. That means specialty controls if needed, as well as proper (one hopes) display of al iPod visual information (track info, etc...)

I doubt we'll start seeing devices like this for units other than the iPod from the big names. I'd love to be wrong, but Apple really does have a commanding presence in portable audio right now.

Bruno