Mazda is the first in Australia to announce the introduction of Apple® CarPlay™ and Android Auto™ upgrade kits
From tomorrow, all Mazda customers with a model with the MZD Connect infotainment system, first introduced to the Australian market in early 2014, will be able to purchase the smartphone mirroring upgrade kit for $494.98 (recommended fitted price).
Customers interested in purchasing the kit are invited to visit their nearest Mazda dealership, where a straightforward hardware and software retrofit process will be completed in several hours.
Both Apple® CarPlay™ and Android Auto™ allow driver or passenger to connect their mobile device to the in-car display screen. Via integration to steering wheel controls and voice activated commands, the user can send and receive calls and messages, listen to music, follow directions – all without compromising focus on the road ahead.
“The ability to fully integrate this technology into our existing offering will give Australians another reason to choose Mazda, but we are especially happy that it is something we can offer to our existing community of customers” said Managing Director of Mazda Australia, Vinesh Bhindi.
Mazda has also confirmed that all new vehicles launched in Australia will support Apple® CarPlay™ and Android Auto™, promising seamless incorporation into the MZD Connect infotainment system. This follows the successful 2018 launches of the tech in Mazda’s Ute segment player, the BT-50, and the latest upgrade of its awarded seven seater SUV, New Mazda CX-9.
Customers looking to retrofit their vehicle with either Apple® CarPlay™ or Android Auto™ are invited to enquire with their local dealer, either online or via phone. To locate your nearest dealer, visit https://www.mazda.com.au/find-a-dealer.
Bentley introduces the world’s first super-fast, secure in-car WiFi
Bentley is today announcing the launch of Advanced Connectivity – the world’s first super-fast, reliable and secure in-car WiFi system. Bentley customers can now benefit from uninterrupted mobile network coverage while travelling, providing a fully functioning and fully connected executive office on the move.
For example, when using the Bentley Advanced Connectivity WiFi system while traveling at speeds of 110 km/h (70 mph), a passenger is able to access a number of simultaneous entertainment and business applications – including high-definition video streaming across multiple devices – with uninterrupted service quality.
Bentley customers simply access the Bentley Advanced Connectivity system via a dedicated app on their smart phone. This new super-fast WiFi service is available in all Bentley models in 2019.
Users will benefit from Bentley Skype for Business and significant virtual office applications, such as the ability to access and edit files on the go, hold vital video conferences, conduct multiple meetings and be present for crucial discussions, all in a secure virtual environment.
The super-fast and highly reliable connection also offers customers new, unrivalled levels of in-car entertainment. Bentley Advanced Connectivity allows online video services to stream content uninterrupted in the car, for a truly luxury viewing experience.
Bentley conducted an exhaustive international search to find the perfect partner for its in-car connectivity requirements, and has enlisted global communications company, Viasat, to provide the world’s best and most secure in-car technology for its customers.
Bentley Advanced Connectivity is a multi-channel virtual private network (VPN), which can aggregate up to three mobile network operators on one super-fast signal. The connectivity system is placed discreetly inside the Bentley’s boot lid, with the router connected to the on-board DC power supply.
The WiFi router links to a broadband connected hub located at a static site. This hub then links the Bentley system to the broadband connection at the host site, for unparalleled connectivity, reliability and security.
Viasat is recognised internationally for having managed 14 million WiFi hotspots; for having operated a managed hotspot network in nearly 30 countries; and for bringing satellite-enabled in-flight WiFi to major commercial and government aircraft worldwide.
Knowing that this kind of technology gradually feeds down to less expensive cars, it’s something the rest of us will most likely see in our cars in about five years time.
Photographs by Bentley Motors and Mazda Australia.