Google voice search can now hear what you’ve got to say

Posted on 25/09/2015 by Christopher Klimovski

Need a better reason to say "OK Google" in public? Well, the search engine just announced a refinement to voice search on its research blog. Now, it can more accurately pick out your voice even in noisy surroundings, and perform the necessary analy...

Pioneer’s AppRadio 3 adds MirrorLink, Siri Eyes Free and more

Posted on 23/05/2013 by Nicole Lee

While Pioneer did announce at CES 2013 that its AppRadio 2 smartphone-powered in-dash unit would support the iPhone 5, the company was hush on any additional updates. Now, however, it has finally unveiled AppRadio 3, which is set to arrive in two models oh-so-descriptively named SPH-DA110 and SPH-DA210. Both retain the same functionality as the AppRadio 2 but add compatibility with MirrorLink enabled devices, thus expanding AppRadio's repertoire of supported products. Other notable features include integration with Siri Eyes Free for iPhone 4S and iPhone 5 owners, Google Voice Search for those with compatible Android phones, Bluetooth audio streaming and an enhanced touchscreen interface that allows easier access to smartphone features like apps, music and making calls.

As with its predecessor, the AppRadio 3 has a 7-inch WVGA (800 x 480) capacitive display, a built-in AM/FM tuner and dual pre-amp outputs. The SPH-DA210 model also includes a CD/DVD mechanism if you still have those dinosaur age discs lying around. The SPH-DA110 and SPH-DA210 will be available in July for around $399 and $499 respectively, while smartphone connectivity cables range from $30 to $60. If you're thinking of making an upgrade to your current head unit, have a closer look at the gallery below or check the press release after the break.

Gallery: Pioneer AppRadio 3

Filed under: Transportation

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Harman preps in-car infotainment with Android, shows concept with gestures and HUD

Posted on 08/01/2013 by Jon Fingas

Harman often works behind the scenes to supply the infotainment systems for the cars we know. This year, it's hoping to catch more of the limelight by putting mobile front and center. Its high-end car system for 2013 runs a unique virtualized platform that keeps vital car functions running on QNX, with an Android-based interface on top: drivers will have access to Android's usual app suite as well as an automaker-run app store. While exacting details aren't available, Harman does promise integration with mobile devices (including Apple's Siri and Google Voice Search) as well as an interface that expands the touch target when fingers get close.

If that's not sufficiently future-forward, the company also has a potentially distraction-free infotainment concept waiting in the wings. While the prototype isn't quite groundbreaking in carrying a heads-up display with augmented reality information, it builds in a pair of gesture control sensors as well; drivers won't have to take their eyes off the road, or their hands off the wheel, just to decline a call. Harman is likewise promising LTE data and a possible smart grid tie-in that shows messages only when the car is stopped at a red light. Any adoption of the infotainment updates will depend on car manufacturers lining up at an unspecified point in the future, but those who can't wait can learn more (including word of a third, basic system) after the break.

Gallery: Harman Android and HUD infotainment at CES 2013