New on the shelves
Sony head unit offers Apple and Android connectivity
Sony head units
Price: from £270 Contact: www.sony.co.uk
SAFER and smarter are the dual targets of the latest pair of head units from electronics giant Sony.
The Japanese firm claims the £270 XAV-1500 will ‘revolutionise your driving experience’ with its 6.2-inch display, because it requires a lighter touch to operate and has anti-glare technology.
Smartphone connectivity is handled by WebLink Cast, which mirrors the display on the head unit for infotainment anywhere. Phones can also connect via Bluetooth for calls and audio streaming. The unit is also reversing camera-ready, on top of which it has an Extra Bass feature, 10-band equaliser, and can play FLAC audio files.
The second unit is aimed at drivers whose vehicle has just a single DIN dash slot. The £580 XAV-AX8050D features an 8.95-inch display that can be adjusted in three directions, while Sony also claims the large anti-glare touchscreen display means looking at maps or changing music will no longer be a distraction. This set-up also has the lighter-touch technology.
The unit has a DAB tuner, plus Apple CarPlay and Android Auto for simple smartphone connectivity. A firmware upgrade will also add the XAV-1500’s WebLink Cast mirroring. Sound is handled by Extra Bass and the Dynamic Stage Organiser, which create a more ambient sound, and it can play FLAC files.
Like the XAV-1500 it can also work with a reversing camera, plus it has three 5-volt preouts if you want to extend the system.
Both are due to go on sale next month. SONY XAV AX 8050D Single-DIN unit’s display can be adjusted in various directions