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Bluetooth Automotive Options
Over thirty automotive brands worldwide offer optional or standard Bluetooth enabled communications systems in their new automotive models. Usually, the Bluetooth functionality is part of a larger communications system that includes navigation. These systems are often fully integrated into the car’s electronics system, offering drivers the greatest range of Bluetooth functionality. From luxury cars including those from Lexus, BMW, Acura, and Lincoln to mid-line cars including those from Toyota, Opel, and DaimlerChrysler, cars offering Bluetooth technology are available for automobile shoppers in all price ranges. The popular Acura TL offers Bluetooth wireless technology as part of its standard HandsFreeLink. As the demo video on the Acura website shows, a driver can easily answer and end mobile phone calls as he drives, without having to touch his handheld mobile phone once it is paired with the car. As a phone call is answered, the system conveniently mutes the car’s audio system. Phone calls can also be initiated from the integrated system, either from the system’s phonebook or dialed on the car’s interface by the driver. On some Bluetooth communications systems using voice activation, a phone call can be initiated and the audio system muted without having to touch any buttons or user interface.
Individuals who are not in the market to purchase a new car but still want the benefits of Bluetooth technology in the car have the option of adding Bluetooth functionality to their car through aftermarket car kits. While some kits require installation by professionals, some kits can be easily installed by plugging them into cigarette lighters and then pairing with your cell phone. Custom installed kits can offer additional functionality, such as custom placement of the microphone and integration with the entertainment system, providing much of the functionality a factory-fitted solution does, including voice recognition options.
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Functionality often runs inversely to affordability. The less Bluetooth functionality offered in a device, the more affordable the device tends to be. Several types of Bluetooth enabled devices for automobiles exist which offer consumers more affordable options. Products like the Motorola HF800 Wireless Portable Speaker create a hands-free environment whether you are in the car or in the conference room. In the car, the speaker attaches to the sun visor and push button controls allow you to answer, end, initiate, and hold calls. The Nokia Advanced Car Kit mutes the car radio, offers ignition sense detection, and allows call handling and volume adjustment through a remote control. Parrot offers its simple DriveBlue car kit that allows users to just plug the device into the cigarette lighter jack in their cars and wirelessly operate their Bluetooth enabled phones.
Finally, owners of Bluetooth enabled mobile phones always have the option of a Bluetooth wireless headset. Of course, wireless headsets do not free the driver from the handset like an OEM Bluetooth car kit can, since users of wireless headsets still need to dial phone numbers from the handset to initiate calls. However, with an incoming call the driver can just push a button to answer the call.
Some Tips When Looking at Bluetooth Car Kits
Be sure to ask which Bluetooth profiles are integrated into both the car kits and Bluetooth enabled mobile phones you consider. The majority of Bluetooth car kits utilize the Bluetooth Hands Free Profile; however, newer cars and car kits are beginning to employ the Bluetooth SIM Access Profile as well. Bluetooth enabled GSM mobile phones that incorporate the SIM Access Profile work with these newer car kits and enable the automobile’s communications system to pull information from the phone. The Bluetooth communication system in the car is then for all intents and purposes an embedded phone, using the car’s antenna. The result is improved reception of calls made in the car. The 2006 Volkswagen Passat is one such car that supports the Bluetooth SIM Access Profile in its factory-fitted automotive communication system.
If you purchase your new car with a Bluetooth communications system first and shop for a phone later, check with the car's manufacturer for recommended phones. While all Bluetooth enabled phones should work with Bluetooth car kits, some Bluetooth enabled phones provide greater Bluetooth functionality in the car than others. Often, the automotive manufacturers or wireless carriers have conducted tests and can provide information on compatibility testing as Verizon Wireless has done for the Motorola v710.
Where Will Bluetooth Technology Drive in the Future?
Bluetooth technology in the car will only continue to advance. Member companies of the Bluetooth SIG have worked long and hard to increase Bluetooth functionality for drivers. Designers are finding new places to put Bluetooth technology in cars. Next time you update your car’s stereo system, you will be able to upgrade to a Bluetooth enabled car stereo system. At the 3GSM World Congress 2005, LG Electronics demonstrated a rearview mirror featuring Bluetooth technology. The rearview mirror displays caller identification information as calls come in to a mobile phone and allows the driver to answer the call with a push of a button on the rearview mirror. The rearview mirror displays caller identification information as calls come in to a mobile phone and allows the driver to answer the call with a push of a button on the rearview mirror.
Demand for hands-free options continues to grow as more cities and countries enact legislation that bars the use of a handheld mobile phone during operation of a vehicle for safety reasons. Most legislation allows drivers to continue hands-free use of mobile phones while driving. Many drivers have found that Bluetooth enabled solutions meet their needs perfectly.
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