A car Infotainment System is a technological interface of an automobile combining “information” and “entertainment”. This is often where all automatic core functions, like the stereo, navigation, HVAC, etc., units are controlled. Though basic head units in the market offer a range of basic functions from audio and video playback, more complex systems in the premium or luxury cars offer heavy-duty automation such as ambient lighting control, vehicle dynamics, etc.
There are also packages varying between different models of the same brand offering different enhancements for your needs. The head unit size can vary depending on the dashboard frame of your car’s make and model. You may find that either Single DIN or Double DIN size fits in your car. It’s important to know more about the correct head unit size for your car.
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History of Infotainment System
In-car audio, navigation, and vehicle-control devices have become increasingly common only in the last decade. At the start of the 21st century, onboard car infotainment systems were bland and limited by the functions they could offer. Stereos could only play audio cassettes and radio before in-car CD players were introduced. In most cases, you had rudimentary graphics, minimal color, and of course, no touch screen functions.
Car dashboard touchscreen head units and interfaces have perpetually lagged behind whereas Smartphones have had so much shorter development cycles and merchandise lifespan, with new models starting ever so often. Smartphones and tablets have led the way for allowing automotive industries to introduce touchscreen systems to in-car entertainment at affordable prices.
What’s even better is that now these infotainment systems come with their own in-built 4G SIM, which means that now your car has its own phone number that you can use for two-way calling when on the go. Now there is no need to use your hand-held devices on the road. Just use your touchscreen car infotainment system to call your friends and family. Smartphones have a shorter shelf life compared to car infotainment systems that need to be more sturdy and last as long as the car is on the road.
Alexa Enabled
Hi Alexa! Now you can put your hands on the road, your hands upon the wheel, and talk to the car. Using voice recognition technology, you can give function commands to the car and enjoy the various features that come with good infotainment systems.
GPS Navigation & Tracking
Sophisticated Car infotainment systems also come with GPS navigation features allowing you to easily enter the location of your destination. Taking away the hassle of having to always use your phone, a touchscreen system makes it very easy to do it all with just a simple touch. No need to install a separate device as you can do it from the head unit itself. These systems also connect remotely to mobile devices that can see the infographics of the vehicle and offer speeding and security alerts, and engine immobilizers to prevent car theft.
The Future of Car Infotainment System
We’re within the thick of a gradual convergence of the Automotive and PC industries. Although this is often manifested mainly in electric cars and semi and fully-autonomous vehicles, it’s steadily passing down to the affordable segment that draws abundant inspiration — and mentality — from those who’ve mastered state-of-the-art interfaces. With time, these technological developments are changing the future of in-car experiences.
Many of you may want to know the price of a car infotainment system, but it depends on the product quality and the kind of features you’re after. There are long-standing international brands like Pioneer, Blaupunkt, and Sony that are veterans in the car audio systems market. If you prefer an Indian OEM, we highly recommend IntelliPlay Car Infotainment System by Trak N Tell. With a Lite and Xtreme version in 7, 9, and 10-inch size touch-screen, their head units are promising to change the way you commute in your car.
