Hyundai Motor Company and Kia announced on the 21st that they will support wireless connections for Google Android Auto and Apple CarPlay through infotainment software updates.
This update will be applied to Hyundai models equipped with the next-generation infotainment system 'ccNC,' including the Grandeur, Kona, Kona EV, facelifted Sonata, new Santa Fe, and Ioniq 5 N, as well as Kia EV9 and facelifted Sorento models.
Until now, Hyundai and Kia owners had to connect their smartphones via USB cable to operate Android Auto or CarPlay through the vehicle's infotainment system. However, with this update, smartphone projection services can now be used wirelessly.
After updating and entering the vehicle, starting the engine will automatically connect the vehicle to the smartphone. However, to activate the feature, both Wi-Fi and Bluetooth on the smartphone must be turned on.
Additionally, if users previously connected via USB cable, they need to go into the settings and delete the existing device information registered on both the smartphone and the vehicle before reconnecting. After reconnection, users can choose between wired and wireless connections.
Hyundai Motor Group plans to expand the wireless connection feature to Genesis vehicles equipped with the advanced 6th generation ccIC infotainment system in the future. The software update also expands the available video streaming services (OTT). Hyundai and Kia have newly added 'U+ Mobile TV' alongside the existing Watcha and Wavve services.
In May, Hyundai and Kia first introduced the 'Cinema' feature, which allows OTT services to be viewed on the vehicle's navigation screen, as part of a major software update.
To use the Cinema feature, users must subscribe to the 'Streaming Plus' service via the connected car service app provided by Hyundai and Kia, then select the 'Cinema' button on the navigation home menu and log in to their subscribed streaming service account. However, for U+ Mobile TV, users can watch a total of 15 live channels without a separate login. For safety reasons, vehicle OTT content can only be used when the vehicle is parked.
A Hyundai and Kia representative said, "This infotainment system update allows customers to use smartphone projection services more conveniently," adding, "We will continue to develop new services and convenience features to provide customers with a more convenient and safe mobility experience."
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