JVC confirmed it will ship its first MirrorLink-compatible in-dash head unit later this month making it the second device with such capability, following Sony’s, into the marketplace.

Expected to be a big push for JVC is its partnership with Samsung on the smartphone side of the equation. The Samsung Galaxy S III, the company’s flagship smartphone, which launched here in the U.S. last month, is generating tremendous buzz and is one of the newest phones that has MirrorLink capability.

JVC’s double-DIN KW-NSX1, with msrp of $599, is a first-generation multimedia unit with a 6.1-inch high- resolution WVGA touch screen so users can enjoy their Samsung Android or Nokia Symbian phone apps. There is also an App Link Mode for use with iPhone/iPod devices.

“Now you will see more and more people jump on the bandwagon for MirrorLink,” says Chad Vogelsong, general manager—marketing, JVC’s Mobile Entertainment, “especially when you get a powerhouse on board like Samsung.”

This is a new scenario for JVC in terms of introducing a product mid-season, but it is a hint of what is to come, according to Vogelsong. Looking ahead to the 2013 line-up, he says, “You will see more from us moving forward in this direction.”