Tag Archives: audio

Honda follows Harley-Davidson with Android Auto

Honda is adding Android Auto to its Goldwing infotainment system for music, phone calls and messaging with a software update next month

This follows Harley-Davidson which became the first motorcycle company to offer Android Auto in March.

It’s tit for tat really, as Honda Goldwing was the first with Apple CarPlay in 2018 and Harley followed a year later with the software update to its Boom! Box GTS Infotainment Systems on their Touring models.

Android Auto is similar to Apple CarPlay and allows riders to access some phone apps such as access Google Maps for navigation, traffic and weather reports, as well as some other apps such as Spotify.

Honda’s official press release says:

Android Auto is a simple, safe way to use your phone on the motorcycle. With simplified interface, and easy-to-use voice actions, it is designed to minimise distraction so you can stay focused on the road. Android Auto makes it easy to access your favourite music, media, and messaging apps on your motorcycle. With your Google Assistant on Android Auto, you can stay focused, connected, and entertained, keeping your eyes on the road and your hands on the handle bar, while using your voice to help you with your day.

But Honda won’t just add it to the Goldwing.

They are planning to add both Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration to more models.

Here's why Harley's Street Glide Special is our top tourer androidHarley Street Glide with Apple CarPlay

Android Auto

Harley-Davidson Australia says they are not sure when the Android version will be available here nor the price, but the Apple version is a free software update, anyway.

As with the Apple feature, the phone must be plugged into the bike via its charging cable.

The screen will mirror the phone, allowing riders to access it through the touchscreen, Google Assistant voice control or a handlebar control.

Google Assistant is available in Australia, Canada (English), France, Germany, India (English), South Korea, United Kingdom, and United States.

Source: MotorbikeWriter.com

iASUS Rekon is a classy helmet intercom

Audio company iASUS is about to release its classy Rekon intercom that promises top audio quality, long battery life and the ability to connect up to 6000 riders on one channel.

We have tested their audiophile-quality XSound auxiliary helmet speakers and they are the best we have come across with clear highs and deep bass.

So we have high expectations for their “Rekon wireless smartphone interface”.

Rekon is more than just another intercomiASUS Rekon motorcycle intercom

It works with push-to-talk mobile/cellular networks to connect users and is compatible with WhatsApp, Line, Kaokao, WeChat and other voice communication platforms.

That means potentially up to 6000 users can be networked into a riding group. Now that’s an interesting concept on a ride!

The Rekon is expected to be available in the next couple of months, depending on the current unpredictable pandemic ramifications.

It will cost $US349 (about $A580) and will connect with any aftermarket speakers.

Or you can buy the Rekon with their XSound 2.1 speakers for $US399 (about $A665) or with the updated XSound 3 speakers for $US499 (about $A830).iASUS Rekon motorcycle intercom

Classy style and function

So they are not cheap, but they are crafted more like a luxury watch with steel, glass and polished aluminium rather than plastic like most intercoms.iASUS Rekon motorcycle intercom

The thin, light and minimalist unit features a three-way control with tempered glass face for ease of use.

Its glass face exposes the details of the mechanical movement and, as a showstopper, it’s backlit!

Rekon uses Hi-def aptX and ADP2 wireless audio formats for high-fidelity sound and operates on Bluetooth 5.0 low-energy power management system, which delivers 250 hours of standby with 10 hours of operation time.

The units slides and locks into position on a special mounting bracket which can be easily detached.

iASUS Rekon motorcycle intercomQuick-release mounting bracket

Each Rekon comes with two mounting bracket kits.

Interestingly, it attaches at the front of the hemet, rather than on the side, which may affect aerodynamics and head rotation in a crash.iASUS Rekon motorcycle intercom

Source: MotorbikeWriter.com