Car infotainment systems are increasingly becoming a standard feature in newer cars these days. No longer are they a bonus that carmakers include to increase sales; instead, they've become a necessity that drivers can't live without.
An in-car infotainment system is the same as an in-car entertainment system (ICE) of the past. The difference is that it has many more features and is much more connected to the internet and your smart devices. Leading carmakers install proprietary infotainment systems into their models, though you can also purchase aftermarket units from popular brands like Sony and Kenwood.
Keep reading as we walk you through everything you need to know about car infotainment systems, from what they are, how they work, and how to select a good one. Lastly, we’ll look at some of the best brands available on the market in 2021.
What Is a Car Infotainment System?
A car infotainment system can be referred to by many different names, and the chances are high that you’re already familiar with at least one of them. Simply put, a car infotainment system is a collection of hardware and software that brings information and entertainment (hence ‘info’ and ‘tainment’) into your car, making it all available to you right at your fingertips.
Once upon a time, these systems were more commonly referred to as in-car entertainment or ICE systems. With the way technology and connectivity have evolved, especially with advances like the Internet of Things, perhaps the term 'in-car entertainment' was not enough anymore.
Today’s car infotainment systems go far beyond just playing music. They’re now connected wirelessly to your smartphones and tablets while also connecting directly to the internet. In addition, these systems are more intelligent than they’ve ever been. They can download their updates and even let the vehicle send information back and forth directly to the manufacturer.
These systems are increasingly becoming a standard feature in cars, and a car infotainment system with GPS is no longer a novelty but increasingly becoming the norm. Better yet, leading car manufacturers are also competing to build the best car infotainment systems, though you can still purchase them as aftermarket upgrades as well.
What Does a Good Car Infotainment System Include?
An excellent car infotainment system consists of several components and features, such as:
Integrated head unit: The integrated head unit is where all the action happens. This part typically consists of a unit with a touch screen that you can use to input commands and view information. Depending on the system’s complexity, you might even be able to control certain features of your car through the same unit.
Head-up display: Car infotainment systems aren’t restricted to the head unit. The system might even extend to other parts of the dashboard, such as a head-up display (HUD, aka heads-up display) projected onto your windshield, showing you the information you want. That might include maps, climate, as well as a virtual speedometer.
Connectivity options: The whole point of these kinds of systems is to connect to other devices. Today, people expect car infotainment systems to connect to their phones through several protocols like Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, or Android Auto. Of course, for all these to work, internet and WiFi connectivity are also a necessity.
Operating system: A car infotainment system turns your vehicle into one big smart device. And what's the core difference between intelligent devices? That's right! It's the operating system. The operating system or OS is responsible for running third-party apps and providing you with an overall positive experience.
How Do You Choose an In-car Infotainment System?
As mentioned before, in-car infotainment systems are increasingly becoming a standard feature in newer car brands and models. Still, whether your car is new or old, you can always buy an aftermarket in-car infotainment system and have it installed in your vehicle.
When shopping for that kind of upgrade, here are five things you’ll want to consider.
#1 Controls (like buttons, knobs, and touchscreens)
An in-car infotainment system is not the same as other devices. For one thing, the conditions in which you use this system are very different from, say, using a tablet at home. Often, you’ll be interacting with the car infotainment system while driving.
So, the first thing you’ll want to consider is the system’s physical controls. For example, touchscreens are excellent, but you can’t change settings by touch while keeping your eyes on the road. Plus, big buttons and knobs are better, so you won’t be distracted when changing the channel or accessing important route information.
#2 Screen Size and Display Quality
Somewhat related to the previous point is the matter of screen size and display quality. Remember: this is an infotainment system. So besides playing music, you’ll also need it to provide you with important information like maps and route directions.
That’s why you’ll want a system with a large enough screen size and high display quality, so you can see the information clearly without having to lean in or squint your eyes.
#3 Simple Menus
The menus for the system should also be simple and easy to navigate, especially while you’re driving. But, again, don’t compare it to the menus on your other smart devices.
The simpler the menu design, the easier it will be to control while you’re driving.
#4 Tech Specs and Performance
Remember: in-car infotainment systems are intelligent devices, so think of them as cousins to your smartphone, tablet, and laptop. We mean that even though these devices are different, their performance specs like RAM, memory, and computing power still matter.
It would be very frustrating and distracting if you had to wait a long time for information to load on your in-car infotainment system. So, invest in one that performs well, just like you would when choosing a new phone or tablet.
#5 Voice Controls
These days, all smart devices are moving towards better voice controls, and car infotainment systems are no exception. A system with efficient voice controls eliminates the need to fiddle with controls, allowing you to keep both hands on the wheel.
Can You Upgrade Your Infotainment System?
Yes, you can upgrade your infotainment system. Suppose you’re driving an older model that only has an obsolete in-car entertainment (ICE) system, you can upgrade by purchasing an aftermarket in-car infotainment system with the latest specs and features.
What Is the Best Car Infotainment System In 2021?
Finding the ‘best’ car infotainment system in 2021 will always boil down to your personal preferences, just the same as some people prefer iPhone smartphones over Android models.
Still, we’ve picked some of the most notable car infotainment systems in 2021 that are built by auto manufacturers, including:
- Chrysler’s Uconnect
- Ford’s Sync 3
- Hyundai’s BlueLink
- Audi's MMI® or Multi-Media Interface
- BMW’s iDrive
- Chevrolet’s MyLink
As you might imagine, these proprietary car infotainment systems come as a standard feature in the vehicles from those manufacturers.
Now, if you're looking for the best aftermarket car infotainment systems in 2021, you don't have to look very hard. Some of the biggest brand names that we've all known and loved over the years also produce fantastic car infotainment systems, like:
- Kenwood (e.g., Kenwood DNX997XR touchscreen receiver)
- Sony (e.g., Sony XAV AX5500 7" Bluetooth Media Receiver with Weblink Cast)
To learn more about car infotainment systems and other car accessories, scroll through the blog at Carpart.com.au, and find topics that interest you. You’ll also find the directory, parts listing, and car parts finder very useful in finding shops, mechanics, sellers, and auto parts and accessories. Check it out now!
By Ray Hasbollah