With the arrival of electric cars, the market has evolved towards more futuristic models, with a greater number of intelligent functionalities and, basically, with the integration of large-inch screens that allow you to enjoy large-scale cartography and great detail. Are you one of those who prioritizes a good screen and multimedia functions over motorization? Well, keep reading.
What to take into account when choosing a multimedia system in the car?
Little by little, vehicle brands are evolving towards very complete interfaces, but we are still going to find proprietary systems on the market that are not entirely comfortable. The best thing in these cases is to look for systems that are compatible with CarPlay or Android Auto , since these technologies will have full integration with your phone and will allow you to use applications, receive notifications and take control of the device through voice commands using the microphone built into your vehicle.
However, there are manufacturers that have not managed to complete this integration correctly, so you could find pairing problems or failures in the execution of certain functions. At this point it is difficult to understand, but vehicles of more than 30,000 euros still do not offer a multimedia experience in line with what many users might expect.
Differences between Android Auto and Apple CarPlay
This question, although it may seem complex, has an easy answer. Both systems differ basically for the same reason that their origins differ, and that is that Android and the iOS operating system offer broadly the same, coming to have the same applications on most occasions. The main point of differentiation is in its own services, since Google has Google Maps and Apple has its own Maps (although we can also run Google’s). That is exactly what we will find in Android Auto and CarPlay, two very similar services whose selection will depend solely on the type of mobile phone you have.
Special functions you should have
When you configure a vehicle, the worst of times usually comes with the extras, since many accessories and functionalities are not usually included as standard. The bad news is that many of these extras improve the connectivity and experience of using your vehicle’s multimedia system, so in many cases your love of technology will force you to include them. These are some of the functions that you should consider:
Connection kit for the Smartphone : In many manufacturers it is usually an extra, and it is a connection area for the Smartphone. Thus, we can charge the battery of our phone and connect it to the switchboard to use Car Play and Android Auto.
Wireless charging base : Surely on more than one occasion you have run out of battery in your mobile and you wish you could have a hidden cable to charge it. Well even better, a cordless base will allow you to charge it effortlessly, since you will only have to leave it in the area for your device to start recharging batteries.
360-degree vision : A camera system will allow you to have a bird’s-eye view of your vehicle with which you can park much easier and more comfortably. It is an extra that is usually quite expensive, but it will allow you to enjoy a complete view of everything around you, ideal for avoiding those treacherous columns.
Voice control : The most important thing when driving is not taking your eyes off the road, and with current systems with large-inch screens it is quite difficult not to take a look from time to time. To avoid this error, voice control systems allow you to define all kinds of settings, from making a call to a contact to changing the temperature of the air conditioner.
Digital key : If you currently pay with your mobile and even carry your house keys digitally, why not have your car keys on your mobile? This function is offered by some brands, and it is something really comfortable to avoid carrying more things in your pocket.
Internet connection : It is useless to have countless functions if your vehicle does not have internet access. The connectivity will allow you to access information in real time, download music in streaming and know the status of the traffic in real time. Configure the route home and always get the fastest way avoiding traffic jams in real time and delays due to accidents or works.
Remote management : Another advantage of having an internet connection is that in many models we can control aspects of the vehicle from a distance. Do you want when you get in the car to be cool and airy? Well, turn on the air conditioning remotely from your mobile phone without problems.
Digital cockpit : The dashboard has also become technological, and innovation goes beyond placing a digital screen. Thanks to this screen, you will be able to configure the instrumentation panel to your liking, being able to configure several predefined screens with which to enjoy a browser view (so you will not have to look to the side), have a preview of the music that is playing or receive information from the traffic signs that we meet along the way.
Head-Up Display : This technology will be another help with which to keep your eyes on the road. It is a digital projection on the dashboard that will allow you to enjoy an augmented reality effect with which to see the direction to follow in the GPS, the nearby traffic signs and much more information in a very comfortable way and without disturbing the driving . The effect is truly amazing.
Rear seat entertainment system : Another very striking extra is to place screens in the rear seats so that the little ones can be distracted by watching their favorite series. Some models like the new Tesla Model S and Model X include the ability to play arcade games by connecting a bluetooth controller, so the possibilities are endless.