Sony has announced its first receiver with Apple CarPlay support. The XAV-AX100 will be compatible with both Apple CarPlay and Google’s Android Auto, so who ever provides your smartphone’s operating system, chances are Sony has you covered.
Sony’s double DIN CarPlay system has the common (and rather disappointing) 6.4″ capacitive touchscreen, with a 800 x 480 resolution display. On the front of the receiver, Sony has opted for physical buttons to change the track and toggle home functions, and there’s also a rotating volume dial so you can control basic system functions without taking your eyes away from the road.
The AX100 includes a 4x 55W amp with Sony’s Extra Bass feature, and a 10-band equalizer. You also get 1USB port at the back, Bluetooth connectivity, 3 pre-out connectivity ports for connecting additional amplifiers and other accessories. Sony’s Dynamic Stage Organizer (DSO) compliments the XAV-AX100 features, overcoming the disadvantage of front-door mounted, full-range speakers which can sound muddy or unclear. The DSO adjusts the signal creating the illusion of dash-mounted virtual speakers’ to provide an ideal, high quality sound experience for the journey.
The XAV-AX100 is priced at $499.99 and will be available in North America by late November.
[Thanks for the tip Stephen and Sony Blog]
