Sony’s affordable Android Auto and Apple Car Play head unit is now available to purchase.
The 6.4-inch XAV-AZ100 receivers work are compatible with both company’s platforms and can be snapped up for just $499/£425.
Compared to buying a new compatible car or some of the other after-market receivers out there, Sony’s offering is a steal.
The receiver boasts all of the functionality provided by other units, including voice control, touch controls.
It also includes the addition of a rotary knob, a 10 band graphic equalizer and compatibility with cars featuring rear cameras.
Sony is providing three pre-outs that will enable drivers to link up their in-car sound systems, while users can create virtual speakers, thanks to the Dynamic Stage Organizer. This can “recalibrate the frequency output” of door speakers so it sounds as if the music is coming from the dashboard.
Apple says there are currently 200 car models, from 44 manufactures, while Kenwood, Alpine, Sony and Pioneer are all making after-market systems.
Google has 54 manufacturers on board in cars that have either launched or are about to.
Google recently announced it was opening up the Android Auto app so the car-friendly interface could be used whether folks had a compatible system or not.
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Editorial independence
Editorial independence means being able to give an unbiased verdict about a product or company, with the avoidance of conflicts of interest. To ensure this is possible, every member of the editorial staff follows a clear code of conduct.
Professional conduct
We also expect our journalists to follow clear ethical standards in their work. Our staff members must strive for honesty and accuracy in everything they do. We follow the IPSO Editors’ code of practice to underpin these standards.
