The SmartDeck isn't just a cassette tape adapter for your iPod. It allows you to control your iPod using the controls on your tape deck.
Pressing play on your tape deck really causes your iPod to play. Pressing the rewind button takes you to the beginning of the song or previous songs; the forward button takes you to the next song. Hitting the eject button or switching to the radio causes the iPod to pause. The iPod is truly and seamlessly integrated to your car's stereo.
The SmartDeck by Griffin Technologies interfaces with your iPod via the dock connector. This allows you to use any iPod with the dock connector including the new iPod Video.
This cassette adapter does not charge your iPod.