Sony announces $499 aftermarket CarPlay audio system, arriving in November

Sony XAV-AX100 002

If you mind buying a brand spanking new car just to get CarPlay, aftermarket solutions from Pioneer, Alpine and Kenwood allow you to add Apple’s in-car infotainment system to older vehicles.

Now Japanese consumer electronics giant Sony has unveiled its first-ever in-car audio system with CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility.

It sports high-fidelity sound and includes voice command features, Siri integration with support for Maps, Music and iMessage features, plus other perks.

Featuring a 6.4-inch touch panel at 800×600 pixels, the forthcoming Sony device supports firmware upgrades, has Bluetooth connectivity, one USB port on its back, extension and external amplifier connectors, a plug for rear view camera and more.

Sony says the gadget’s sound system is actually capable of overcoming engine noise.

High power sound comes full throttle with the XAV-AX100 in-car audio system. 55 watts x 4 Dynamic Reality Amp 2 and Extra Bass low boost circuitry overcome engine noise and reproduce clear sound at any volume level with deep and punchy bass.

The 10-band graphic equalizer gives an astonishing variety of sound, perfectly complementing Extra Bass for an enjoyable drive. 3-pre out connectivity allows system expandability to connect external amplifiers with a wide range of speaker connections, allowing sound enthusiasts to build their own bespoke system.

Additionally, Sony’s proprietary Dynamic Stage Organizer technology aims to solve the problem of muddy or unclear sound from front-door mounted speakers by creating the illusion of dash-mounted virtual speakers.

Like all Sony products, the system is cryptically named as the XAV-AX100. For those interested, the XAV-AX100 will go on sale in late November, priced at $499.99.

Source: Sony