Wireless Android Auto Revolution Coming To CES 2018 Starting With JVC Kenwood
Android Auto has been around for a while now and allows users to connect their Android smartphone to compatible infotainment systems in cars, along with some aftermarket audio systems. The catch is that connecting the smartphone to these infotainment systems requires a cable and a USB port. Having to connect your phone via a cable to use the features is not ideal, especially considering that many cars now include as standard (or as an option) wireless charging pads.
That is about to change with JVCKENWOOD announcing that it will be showing off a new line of products under the JVC band that will be Wi-Fi enabled and support wireless connectivity for Android Auto use. That means you can wirelessly connect with no need to futz with that USB cable. JVC, however, doesn't really get into the technical aspects of this wireless Android Auto feature.
JVC wrote, "Lineup of new receivers without disc-reading mechanism with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto capability and new AV receivers featuring enhanced connectivity with smartphones and equipped with a 6.8-inch LCD panel, such as Wi-Fi-enabled receivers with wireless connectivity for Android Auto."
Apple CarPlay also supports wireless connectivity, but few cars support it at this time (mainly certain BMW models at this point) along with some aftermarket head units.
The Kenwood brand will also have high-end AV multimedia receiver featuring an HD screen and wireless connectivity for Android Auto along with wired connectivity for CarPlay. Other than the new in-car audio gear, the company will also be showing off 4K video cameras ranging from pro models to consumer units. A full line of Bluetooth wireless headphones will also be on display.
New reference products to be shown include a vibrating audio generator (exciter) that will find use in vehicles and other uses. Ribbon speakers and an EXOFIELD out-of-head sound processing will also be shown. That latter feature is a new audio signal processing tech meant to customize sound to individual users.
