A client from Campbell recently contacted California Car Sounds and Tint about upgrading his Subaru WRX radio with a CarPlay solution. The client works for Apple and wanted to be able to use his iPhone with this smartphone integration system. We demonstrated several solutions for the client before settling on a multimedia receiver from Pioneer. With the solution in place, we scheduled an appointment to install the new radio.
Subaru WRX Radio Upgrade
The client chose a Pioneer AVH-W4400NEX multimedia receiver because of its large, 7-inch touchscreen and wireless smartphone connectivity. Unlike most radios, this Pioneer unit features a Wi-Fi transceiver that will pair with the client’s iPhone to allow CarPlay functionality without the need for any wires. As soon as the client gets in the car, the two devices connect, and he can send text messages, make phone calls or get navigation directions by talking to the radio. The Siri voice recognition engine built into his iPhone translates those verbal requests into commands.
iDatalink Maestro Vehicle Integration
To maximize the features of the new radio, we used an iDatalink Maestro RR radio replacement interface with its HRN-RR-SU2 harness. This interface allows the stereo system buttons on the steering wheel to work with the new radio. Pioneer includes a vehicle information screen that displays vehicle speed, engine RPM and many more features, thanks to vehicle data network connectivity provided by the RR module. It’s like having a second instrument cluster but is fully customizable.
We added a 6-volt power supply from Axxess to integrate the factory backup camera into the Pioneer radio. The camera image is displayed automatically as soon as the transmission is in reverse.
Pioneer AVH-W4400NEX Features
The Pioneer radio also features Pandora integration as well as a built-in HD Radio tuner module. The client can play FLAC, MP3, WMA, WAV, and AAC audio files and MPEG-4, AVI, WMV, and DivX video files from a USB memory stick or SD card. Of course, Bluetooth audio streaming and hands-free calling are built into the AVH-W4400NEX should someone need to use something other than a modern iPhone or Android-based smartphone to listen to music or make calls.
Smartphone Integration Project
After we had the new Subaru WRX radio installed and the vehicle back together, we showed the client how to use the radio and demonstrated its voice-controlled features. The client loved the new radio and was excited to be able to communicate safely while driving. If you live in Campbell or the San Jose area and want a way to increase your efficiency while commuting, drop by California Car Sounds and Tint and speak with one of our product specialists. We’d be happy to design a custom solution for your application. You can reach us by e-mail to schedule a personalized consultation.
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