Sit back and let Android take control

Infotainment systems have drastically improved over the years, both in terms of form and function. Manufacturers incorporate navigation, communication and whatnots into their in-car multimedia systems for a better driving experience. Some of these work great, some not so much. But one thing they all have in common is a lack of a fully customisable operating system (OS). This is where Android ATC comes in.

What is Android ATC?

Android ATC, which stands for Android Takes Control, works pretty much the same way as an Android smartphone; except that it's designed to replace an in-car infotainment system.

A host of integrated Android ATC head units are available for different makes and models. A universal head unit is also available for cars not included in the list.

How is this different from my stock infotainment system?

Native infotainment systems are limited by carmakers' specifications, meaning the amount of features you get in your system is only as vast as what your manufacturer allows you to make use of.

Android ATC, on the other hand, is an extension of the Android smartphone OS - an open source platform. This allows Android users to take advantage of an almost infinite number of apps and customise their devices to suit their individual needs.

Why can't I just connect my smartphone to my car via Bluetooth?

Connecting your smartphone to your car via Bluetooth limits you to basic functions such as media playback, calls and messaging. It doesn't offer features like MirrorLink, which mirrors your smartphone's screen onto the Android ATC head unit. This can be done either through Bluetooth or a micro-USB cable. To be safe, the manufacturer recommends running at least an Android version 4.4 KitKat on your smartphone.

Once connected, you'll be able to access apps such as Meradio - which works just like a radio receiver but offers better sound quality, thanks to the transmission of digital radio signals. Another noteworthy app is Zoiper, which is basically an in-car phone.

It uses a data network to make and receive calls, and runs on a separate phone number. This means you won't have to worry about forgetting to bring your smartphone out of the house. It also offers auto roaming and is supposedly cheaper compared to IDD calls.

In case you're wondering, the Android ATC comes standard with three USB output ports, which can be connected to any of the numerous add-ons that complement the system. For example, you could plug a keyboard and mouse into the system and use it as an in-car computer. Or you could connect an external tyre pressure monitoring system and not have to worry about a flat tyre ever. If you're one for convenience, don't forget to check out the steering control module, which allows for quick access to frequently used functions such as media playback and phone commands.

What else can this thing do?

Android ATC boasts a screen resolution of 1024 x 600, Wi-Fi capabilities for connecting to hotspots and smartphones, and has a Cascade mode, which allows for multi-tasking; something Samsung users will be familiar with. It also supports various file formats such as aac, dts and mkv; just to name a few.
Although it doesn't feature an automatic brightness sensor, Android ATC still allows you to pre-set the screen's brightness to coincide with the time of day and adjust the speaker volume to be reduced when the car is put into reverse gear. Despite its name, the Android ATC is able to connect to iPhones through Airplay. Newer models of the ATC system are also capable of over-the-air updates.

Why can't I just get a brandless and cheaper system online?

You could, but that would come with a plethora of issues like a lack of technical and aftersales support, as well as a lack of warranty. Aestmod Auto LLP, the principal distributor for Android ATC, offers more than just the infotainment system. It offers convenience and peace of mind for your purchase.

Aestmod has a dedicated WhatsApp group chat for its customers to provide feedback, ask questions and receive notifications on all things Android ATC. It also has a Facebook group for Android ATC updates and downloads.

You can rest assured that any technical issues or enquiries will be met with a prompt response from Aestmod since it has a direct line to the manufacturer. It also rolls out regular software and firmware updates for the Android ATC for free.

Aestmod is planning to roll out an integrated data plan for the Android ATC head unit by the end of the year. This will provide an independent data connection for your car so you won't have to siphon off that precious bandwidth from your mobile plan.

If you're in the market for a new car that comes equipped with the Android ATC, head down to The Wheelers Auto for a look-see. It is a promising star in the industry and has equipped the Toyota C-HR with Android ATC to offer a variety of functions such as in-built GPS, MirrorLink, Bluetooth connectivity and future adaptability for integration.

Here's what some satisfied customers have to say about Android ATC.

"Without any doubt Aestmod is my go-to car accessory installation workshop that has surpassed my expectations," Steven Neo.

"The ATC Android 10.2-inch UNIV-10-DG was installed on my Porsche Cayenne. The crew put in extra effort to search for the din frame, which was rare, to allow installation. After the frame arrived, it only took two hours for installation and testing. The crew was professional with awesome workmanship and took note of every small detail," Alvin Ng.

To read about more satisfied customer experiences, head over to http://bit.ly/2pzZaQ3.

For more information, check out https://www.aestmodauto.com/, http://bit.ly/2pMWA4D or https://www.facebook.com/atcandroid.