Sony today introduced its new XAV-AX200 in-car audio receiver, which doubles as an aftermarket CarPlay system.
The double-DIN XAV-AX200 has a 6.4-inch touchscreen, but Sony didn't specify if its capacitive, or resistive like its XAV-AX100 predecessor.
Other key features include both CarPlay and Android Auto support, Bluetooth, SiriusXM satellite radio compatibility, a built-in four-channel amplifier, three external camera inputs, and a built-in DVD player.
Sony also unveiled a MEX-GS820BT receiver that can pair with two smartphones at once via Bluetooth. It doesn't appear to support CarPlay, but it does feature Siri Eyes Free, and similar voice controls on Android smartphones. Sony said the unit has a high-contrast vertical-alignment LCD of an unspecified size.
Siri Eyes Free helps minimize driver distraction with Siri voice recognition, allowing drivers to interact with an iPhone 4s or later without needing to look at the in-dash screen. The feature can be used to make calls, play music, hear and compose text messages, read notifications, use Apple Maps, and more.
Sony said the XAV-AX200 and MEX-GS820BT will be available across North America by the end of the year. Pricing wasn't disclosed. The older XAV-AX100 generally retails for between $499 and $549 in the United States.
Other aftermarket CarPlay systems are available from Alpine, Clarion, Kenwood, JBL, JVC, Pioneer, Sony, and other manufacturers.
Top Rated Comments
For one of the world's most innovative auto makers, they're being shockingly pigheaded about the future.
My phone is literally mounted next to my car deck and user experience wise there is a very small list of what CarPlay is able to do over a stand alone iPhone.
Get a quality single din deck with Bluetooth or a USB input, direct audio connection + charging, turn on "hey Siri", obviously a non obtrusive car phone mount system and you arguably have a more functional and affordable set up.
Of course I'm coming from the perspective of having a car that doesn't have CarPlay already factory installed .
[doublepost=1502745024][/doublepost]I have a very similar set up.
I agree the pioneer apps are mostly crap and it could just be the Pioneer OS(app play?) but apps are slow to launch.
My set up is basically:
* Phone mount next to car deck screen
* Connected through usb(hard connection for Audio, Bluetooth also connected for phone calls)
* Navigation is usually running on my 7 plus
* Whatever audio I have playing is displayed on my deck
Cons(compared):
* 2 interfaces instead of 1
* General user interface over all isn't as sleek as CarPlay
Pros:
* Can run apps not supported by CarPlay
* Always viewable media controls and phone/app controls
* A few hundred dollars less than CarPlay
* Almost all of the features of CarPlay without installing a CarPlay deck
I was testing XAV-AX100 and just as you said, one of the most affordable and capable aftermarket CarPlay units.
Ultimately, I upgraded to the new Ford Taurus SHO, which has Sync 3 and I couldn't be happier with my choice. (And the twin turbo power is exhilarating!)