WETZLAR, Germany�Good news for broadcasters.�In-car entertainment developer Continental says it has developed a progressive vehicle radio platform that allows control of numerous functions on one processor, and functions that are based on software.
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The main approach behind the platform is simple: Replace cost intensive hardware with software, wherever possible.
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To achieve this reduction, the Continental radio platform is built on an optimized system-on-chip. It has a multi-core processor at the heart of the platform that is handling all human-machine interface, connectivity and audio post-processing related functions, as well as an integrated vehicle controller and a digital signal processor that is enabling the core radio technology of the new platform � the software.
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An integral part of the system is a software-defined radio that allows for reception of analog and digital radio standards such as AM/FM, DAB/DAB+/ DMB, DRM and HD Radio worldwide on a single piece of hardware. �New standards can be enabled by software update as they become available in different regions, for example Chinese Digital Radio in China.
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Audio sources for this infotainment system are the radio in addition to the drivers� or passengers� digital devices connected via Bluetooth or USB/iPod connection.
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Drivers can enjoy a variety of functions and connected services in a safe way, the company says, since the platform is capable of mirroring applications and content from smartphones via different standards such as MirrorLink, Android Auto, Apple CarPlay or Baidu Carlife.�Audio sources for this infotainment system are, yes, the radio, in addition to the drivers� or passengers� digital devices connected via Bluetooth or USB/iPod connection.
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Continental�s new head unit�does not�include a CD player.�
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