WiFi Stereos
WiFi in stereos is becoming such a sought after feature for car stereos. But many people ask, what are WiFi stereos? What does this mean? If you have seen our multimedia range, you will know that a lot of the units have Apple Car Play and Android Auto. If you don't know about our multimedia units with Car Play and Android Auto, they are smartphone-based platforms allowing you access a world of apps in your vehicle, safely. With the release of the AVIC-Z range, the range introduced WiFi into a navigation multi-media stereo, this enabled the user to access Apple Car Play and Android Auto completely wirelessly, getting rid of the messy USB cables needed. Pioneer were the first in the UK/EU to enter the market with a WiFi-enabled stereo. The AVH-Z9100DAB, which has now been perfected with the AVH-Z9200DAB. Currently, the WiFi offering is limited to the following units Pioneer AVIC-Z720DAB, AVIC-Z820DAB, AVIC-Z920DAB, AVH-Z9200DAB and in Kenwood, the DMX8019DABS and the DNX9190DABS. All currently over the £500 mark. Maybe in the next 18 months, we may see a big brand for the sub £500 mark with WiFi. Apple Car Play was very similar in that respect when it was first introduced. These are unavailable for less than £400, apart from a few special offers you may come across. Now, Apple Car Play is available across the Pioneer AVH-Z and AVIC-Z ranges as standard. We have written a review of a couple of head units to consider when you are shopping for your next multimedia unit. The write up will contain the main features of these units; more specs are available on our website.Multi-Media Units With WiFi
Pioneer AVH-Z9200DAB - RRP £699.99
A real high-end unit for and car audio enthusiasts. This unit combines advanced features with audiophile-grade components. The AVH-Z9200DAB represents Pioneer's everlasting commitment to pushing the boundaries and really stamping their mark on the car audio market. When the unit first come out, I thought it was a bit too ahead of the market due to the high-end components inside, but it has proven me wrong. This unit has proven to be one of our top sellers for around the £600-£700 price tag.Main Features:
- 7-inch 24 bit True Colour Clear Type Resistive Multi-touchscreen
- Apple Car Play (Via USB or WIFI)
- Android Auto (via USB or Wireless Mirroring)
- Bluetooth for Handsfree calling or audio streaming
- Waze Navigation (compatible smartphone required)
- FLAC Compatible
- HDMI input for multimedia devices
- Weblink to access additional apps (needs compatible smartphone)
- DAB Radio Compatible (DAB antenna required)
- 3 RCA high power (4V) preouts (front/rear/sub)
- Up to 2 camera inputs
Kenwood DMX8019DABS - RRP £599.99
Like the AVH-Z9200DAB, this unit utilises high-end audio components. They have taken the more modern approach with in-car entertainment in terms of aesthetics. If you are trying to build a Hi-Res Audio set up, this unit will be a better option due to it's Hi-Res Audio capabilities. Like the DMX7017DABS in 2017, the unit won an EISA award for best product 2019/2020.Main Features:
- 7.0" WVGA capacitive touch screen
- Android Auto (via USB or Wireless Mirroring)
- Apple Car Play (Via USB or WIFI)
- Bluetooth for Handsfree calling or audio streaming
- FLAC Compatible
- HDMI input for multimedia devices
- Up to 3 camera inputs
- DAB Radio Compatible (DAB antenna required)
- Advanced DashCam link for optional DRV-N520
- Compatible with High Res Audio
- 3 RCA high power (5V) preouts (front/rear/sub)
Overall, we would like to see more choice on the market for WiFi stereos, as having the WiFi option enhances connectivity in-car entertainment.
Things to Consider
- 4G - is your area coverage good? Do you run into low coverage areas often? The wireless features require 4G to operate.
- Battery life - you are transferring data between devices, whether you do it via USB or wireless. This will drain your phone battery. Try to have a full battery when setting off using wireless features.
If you need help fitting your new car stereo unit, get in touch with us today.