Porsche Reveals New Infotainment System, Adds Android Auto
Porsche’s sixth-generation infotainment system now supports Android Auto, along with increased integration of Apple CarPlay.
The Track Precision app gets a makeover as well, with increased accuracy for lap times and data thanks to a re-optimized GPS.
PCM 6.0 will debut in the 2022 Porsche 911, expected in late 2021 or early 2022, before reaching other models.
Although Porsches are certainly still driver’s cars, the sports-car marque doesn’t skimp out on its infotainment technology. A new Porsche Communication Management (PCM) 6.0 aims to provide even more information to drivers while also integrating the infotainment system seamlessly into the driving experience.
For starters, the overhauled PCM 6.0 interface features redesigned fonts, icons, and layouts and increased integration of Apple CarPlay. It also has Android Auto capability for the first time. Over-the-air updates will ensure that Porsche drivers always have the latest version of the software.
Porsche has also improved the voice assistant. Saying “Hey Porsche” activates the system (you can also use a button on the screen or on the steering wheel), which can understand an expanded list of words and phrases. The voice assistant can also now adjust functions such as massage seats, climate control, and ambient lighting, along with phone commands and navigation. The navigation system can now update routes more quickly and tell the driver how much traffic individual lanes are experiencing on certain roads to help reduce commute times.
The increased integration of Apple Music allows drivers to access their music library even without their phone in the car, as long as they have signed in previously. A driver can also directly add a song they hear on the radio that they like to their Apple Music library without leaving the radio interface, or launch an Apple Music playlist based on a specific artist if someone on the radio catches their ear.
Porsche has also enhanced the Track Precision app. The app can now run through Apple CarPlay and has a revised interface. The app can record lap times and track data for 300 tracks around the world, with the GPS upgraded for increased accuracy. The data can also be overlaid onto video if a driver connects a GoPro via Bluetooth. Although the app is free to download, the vehicle must be equipped with the Connect package (for wi-fi support) as well as the Sport Chrono package in order to work. Although it was originally only available on the 911 and 718 sports cars, the app will be expanded to the Cayenne, Taycan, and Panamera.
PCM 6.0 will debut on the 2022 Porsche 911, before appearing on the Cayenne, Taycan, and Panamera. There are no plans to update the system on the 718 Cayman and Boxster, and we haven't heard yet when it will make its way into the Macan. Expect Porsche models equipped with the new system to go on sale in late 2021 or early 2022.
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