The future of the automobile depends on intelligent networking and communication solutions. With its LTE module, Audi is able to link its models to the Internet and incorporate cellphones into the entertainment system of the car in a number of different ways.
In This Article...
Audi connect
Audi Connect provides internet services for the brand’s vehicles. Depending on the model, the wide range of amenities includes everything from online traffic information and parking spot search to navigation with Google Earth and Google Street View, and finally the services of Audi connect safety & service. Additionally, Car-to-X services, which draw on the fleet’s collective intelligence, are available for some models.
The MMI or Audi virtual cockpit screen in the vehicle displays the Audi connect services, which can be accessed by voice command, MMI touch response, or the multifunction rotary/push-button control. The majority of information, including personalized messages, emails, text messages, and data from social network websites like Twitter, can also be read aloud to the driver.
Audi connect safety & service
Audi Connect Safety & Service’s offerings are divided into two categories. Emergency calls, online roadside help, and Audi service requests are all included in the first cluster. In the event of a serious collision, such as one in which the airbag has deployed, the vehicle will autonomously place an emergency call. In addition to providing crucial information including GPS coordinates, travel direction, and the number of occupants, it also establishes a voice and data connection with the Emergency Call Center. A professionally qualified service representative will inquire further about the accident’s severity so that the best support steps can be started right away. An ambulance will be sent to the accident scene if the accident victims are unresponsive. Using a switch in the roof module, the driver or front passenger can manually initiate the emergency call as well. The emergency call module has its own power supply, so even if the car’s electrical system fails, it can establish a voice connection. By pressing a button on the roof module, the driver or front passenger can easily manually activate the online roadside help. The location and pertinent vehicle status information are sent together with the connection to the Audi Service Center. Two weeks previous to the appointment for maintenance, the vehicle’s Audi service request function sends service-related information to the workshop that the customer specifies in the myAudi site. The service provider can then get in touch with the client to arrange a time.
The remote services, which can be managed using an app, are included in the second section of the packages. As an illustration, consider locking and unlocking the car, determining where it is parked, and calling the vehicle status. The status report, which the user can have shown on his smartphone, contains data about the open/closed state of windows and the unlocked/locked state of doors as well as the remaining range, fuel level, and oil level. The quick programming of the optional auxiliary heating feature is also possible using the app. Owners of Audi e-tron vehicles can see the charge status and electric range information using the myAudi app. Additionally, they can employ user-configurable timers to remotely turn on the climate control and charging processes. The offer is completed with charge and journey statistics.
Audi connect key
Audi has transformed the traditional car key into the Audi connect key, which is then sent to the user’s smartphone. It authorizes the start of the engine and is used to unlock and lock the car. Near field communication allows the car and the smartphone to communicate (NFC). This term describes a standard in which data is delivered over brief radio wave distances. The driver uses their smartphone, which has an NFC antenna, to unlock the car by holding it close to the driver’s door handle. The phone is inserted into the Audi phone box, which also has an NFC antenna, to start the engine.
The digital key in the smartphone contains very sensitive data that needs to be shielded against reading, copying, and manipulation. To do this, the Audi connect key is stored on the SIM card or directly in the smartphone in a secure memory and execution environment. Another security benefit is that the communication between the automobile and the smartphone is not mediated by the smartphone’s operating system because this secure element is connected directly to the NFC antenna via the single wire protocol (SWP).
Customers will soon be able to wirelessly distribute up to 15 keys to friends, family, or coworkers. When the car is opened, the key owner is recognized, and a range of settings from the user’s personal profile are loaded, including seat position, air conditioning settings, and navigation preferences. Because a smartphone may store keys for several vehicles, this method eliminates the one-to-one connection between a vehicle key and a vehicle. An Audi connect key card in credit card format is accessible in the vehicle for circumstances where the driver has to share the Audi connect key for a brief amount of time but does not want to hand up the smartphone. It can be turned on by the driver and given to valet parking staff, for example, or transferred in the event of a breakdown.
Due to the NFC chip’s ability to take its energy from an electromagnetic field created by its counterpart, the Audi connect key is always operational, regardless of whether the smartphone’s battery is charged (this depends on the specific model).
Audi connect SIM
Customers in Europe may receive the Audi connect SIM, which is a permanently implanted SIM card, along with the optional Audi connect package, depending on the model and country. It comes with limitless data for usage with connect services. In most European nations, the Audi connect SIM may also instantly access the provider for a certain country as needed. The customer no longer has to deal with exorbitant, regionally specialized roaming fees or onerous roaming confirmations.
Independent of the integrated Audi connect services, the customer can additionally purchase additional data packages for the WiFi hotspot via a unique web portal. This enables the passengers to use up to eight mobile devices to browse the internet.
Audi MMI connect App
Numerous additional features are available through Audi link services in the Audi MMI connect app, which may be accessed from the vehicle’s MMI system. One of these is syncing a smartphone calendar with the dashboard display. The driver can transfer the phone number of a contact person as a contact entry and import an appointment location from the smartphone for usage as a navigation destination. The system announces the location, time, and reason for an appointment. Additionally, users can store their favorite stations on their devices and access over 3,000 internet radio stations through the app. Additionally, it is possible to use internet media streaming with access to Napster products and services, as well as playback music that is locally stored on a smartphone, in the automobile. Additionally, the Audi MMI connect app may display up-to-date traffic data. The “Travel service makes recommendations for travel locales. Planning navigational destinations is possible on a computer or smartphone; specific destinations can be submitted to the Audi back end via the Google Maps, the Audi MMI connect app, and the web site for myAudi. After then, the driver can use the saved locations for in-car navigation.
The Audi MMI connect app is available for free download in the App Store and Google Play Store. After that, registration at myAudi is necessary. The driver can manage specific connect services, make service appointments, and access vehicle data at myAudi. This necessitates the system’s storage of the pertinent vehicle identification number.
Audi phone box
Near-field coupling allows the Audi phone box with wireless charging to wirelessly connect mobile devices to the vehicle antenna. This enables it to produce reception quality that is noticeably greater. Inductive charging based on the Qi standard is also made possible by the box if the mobile device is compatible with it. The receiver coil in the smartphone receives the current from a coil in the box’s base.
The Audi phone box is offered in the Audi A8 (2017) in a variety of configurations for the driver and rear passengers, both with and without an NFC antenna connection. It takes on new functions including recognizing and authenticating the Audi connect key or the Audi connect key card depending on the other feature choices. The Audi phone box can be used by rear passengers to make private phone calls. In this instance, the handset is the remote control for the backseat.
Audi smartphone interface
Apple Car Play and Android Auto are made available through the Audi smartphone interface, bringing the comfortable smartphone environment inside the car. A separate MMI menu or the Audi virtual cockpit can be used to access content including navigation, phone, audio, and some third-party apps (in the Audi TT and Audi R8). Customers can easily access the data on an iOS or Android device (iOS 7.1 and above, Android at least 5.0 Lollipop) that is linked via the USB port by using the car’s operating system. The navigation system and Audi connect services are not required to use the Audi smartphone interface.
Audi tablet
A versatile Rear Seat Entertainment system, the Audi tablet offers a high-resolution 10.1-inch screen (1,920 x 1,200 pixels). The tablet, which is an option for some large models, uses Wi-Fi to connect to MMI navigation plus. This enables it to access the Radio, Media, Navigation, and Car menus. Rear passengers can email the driver a planned route, for example, or the driver can start a radio or media program for them through MMI navigation plus. The data transfer works in both directions.
The Android-powered Audi tablet supports near-field communication (NFC), a technique that allows Android devices to share data while they are in close proximity. A microSD card can be used to expand memory to its 32 gigabytes of internal memory.
The start menu’s “more” button gives users access to the internet and its over one million apps, games, movies, music, audiobooks, eBooks, and office software programs. Skype video calls can be made using the built-in full HD camera. After the journey, the user can take the Audi tablet out of the vehicle and utilize an outside Wi-Fi network to continue using it.
The chassis of the Audi tablet, which is milled from solid anodized aluminum, betrays its high-quality nature. It has a battery and has been thoughtfully made for usage in a car. Additionally, it is unaffected by hot or extremely low temperatures, and the tilt-adjustable bracket on the back of the front seat is collision-proof and detachable if necessary.
The tablets, which may only be bought in pairs, are connected to both the Rear Seat Remote control panel and MMI navigation plus in the Audi A8 (2017). As a result, when the tablet is snapped into its bracket, a passenger can use it extremely easily while leaning back.
Bang & Olufsen Sound System with 3D sound
For fans of high-end audio, the Bang & Olufsen Sound System with 3D sound offers an intriguing featuresound that incorporates the spatial dimension of height. It does this by using a number of additional loudspeakers. Without any added effects, the room is transformed into a spacious sound stage where the music plays out just as it did while recording in the performance hall. An algorithm created by Audi in partnership with the Fraunhofer Institute in Erlangen is what powers this technology. It computes the data for the third dimension, conditions it for the 3D loudspeakers, and takes stereo or 5.1 recordings.
The Bang & Olufsen Sound System has 3D sound in the back seats of its most expensive model. Depending on the model, the sound setting can be tailored to individual preferences with a concentration on either the front or rear seats, or on all seats, using the MMI system and a separate control device for the rear passengers.
The 1,920 watt amplifier that serves as the heart of the Bang & Olufsen Advanced Sound system in the 2017 Audi A8 runs extremely effectively due to its “Icepower Technology.” Neodymium magnets, which are incredibly light and provide little distortion, are used in 23 loudspeakers, which are driven by the system’s 24 channels and digital signal processor. To highlight the woofers in the doors, aluminum speaker grilles with LED light strips are used. When the system is activated, two tweeters protrude from the instrument panel; both are renowned high-end features by Bang & Olufsen and Audi.
Car-to-X
The Audi fleet’s swarm intelligence, which includes more than 100,000 vehicles already collecting data on a global scale, is used by the Car-to-X services. They send the information over the mobile radio network to a server, which analyses it and makes it accessible to particular fleet members. The bundle also includes the traffic light information service in addition to online traffic sign information, hazard alert, and on-street parking.
The on-board camera assesses speed restrictions in the context of information from road signs. Updates to the navigation map are made using the information. This data is used by systems like the efficiency assistant to adjust driving speed predictably and effectively. Cars can communicate with one another about hazards like accidents, breakdowns, slick roads, and reduced visibility via the hazard information service. The Electronic Stabilization Control (ESCactions, )’s information from rain and light sensors, headlights and windshield wipers, emergency service calls, and instances of airbag activation are just a few of the many criteria that are assessed for this purpose. The on-street parking service offers comprehensive parking data. When a vehicle is outfitted with Car-to-X technology, the onboard sensors on the vehicle will detect available parking spaces and communicate this information to a server in the cloud. Finding a parking spot will become much easier thanks to the swarm’s knowledge.
Traffic light information is a Car-to-X service that is now in use in some US cities and will progressively be implemented in a few European towns starting in the middle of 2019. The driver can adjust their speed to coincide with the next green light phase because the car receives data from the traffic control computer that manages a city’s traffic light systems. A countdown in the instrument cluster displays the seconds until the next green light phase whenever the driver approaches a red traffic light; this allows them to let off the accelerator pedal earlier. The amount of time before the next green light phase can be shown in the instrument cluster if the driver is already waiting at a red light. Thus, the system encourages a foresighted and effective driving style and promotes a continuous stream of traffic.
Can Audi remotely start my vehicle?
Concerning the availability of Audi remote start, many drivers ask. In fact, it’s one of the car features that Audi drivers most frequently ask for.
Although they can be added later through a dealership or aftermarket installation business, Audi automobiles do not unfortunately come equipped with full remote start features. Audi vehicles instead come with the Audi Advanced Key, which provides many equivalent advantages.
Consider the details in this brief review if you’re trying to decide between the Audi Remote Start and the Audi Advanced Key.
What is Remote Start?
A highly advanced feature called remote start was first generally made available by GM in 2003. By using a unique key FOB or smartphone app, these systems enable a motorist to start their vehicle from anywhere within a specific range. Once turned on, the vehicle will operate on its own for a certain period of time, typically 10 or 15 minutes.
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Audi Remote Start Availability
Audi remote starters have only been an aftermarket option for many years, but owners have found them to be a popular addition. While remote start has gained popularity in the United States, many international automakers have been sluggish to include this function because of laws in other countries.
Historically, remote start has not been an option for Audi automobiles. The use of a remote start is prohibited in Germany, where Audi is headquartered. Due to this, despite the fact that their key fobs can support the technology, remote start will probably never arrive as standard on any Audi vehicles.
Older Audi models can be modified with the same technology in addition to having Audi remote start installed on new ones. Some Audi retailers are now offering the option to configure your OEM key with remote start functionality in response to consumer demand. As an added bonus, the myAudi app can be installed to let you operate your remote start system from your phone.
Other vehicle accessory vendors also offer aftermarket installation.
Audi Advanced Key Capabilities
Instead of remote start, Audi offers the Audi Advanced Key, a remote start variant with keyless entry and push-button start/stop functionality. The vehicle’s doors and trunk contain proximity sensors that turn on when you and your important approach are about 5 feet away from the car. This system uses these sensors to work.
With Audi Advanced Key, you can start your car and open the doors without having to search through your pockets or handbag for the keys.
Audi Advanced Key users can start the car using a push start system without inserting a key, albeit this is not a true remote start. For many drivers, this can be a practical substitute for remote starting.
Additionally, the Audi Advanced Key enables saved driver profiles that reset the seat and mirror configurations in the car to the preferred memory settings.
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It’s important to note that the myAudi app allows remote car access to be managed from any location. Drivers can now directly unlock the car from the smartphone thanks to this.
Despite not being a fully functional remote start, the Audi Advanced Key offers many of the same advantages and perks, such as not having to fiddle with a key.
Pros & Cons of Remote Start
Using remote start is optional and depends on personal preference. There are numerous justifications for and against using remote starting. Among the advantages and disadvantages are:
Pros
- Weather Adjustment Depending on the weather where you live, being able to warm (or cool down) your car before you get in using a remote start might be a significant benefit or even a requirement. Prior to even leaving your door, it gives your engine time to warm up for the best driving conditions.
- Convenience
- The last thing you want to do is having to fiddle with your key while holding a kid who is wriggling or a bunch of shopping bags in your hands. With remote start, you can access your car without getting in it, saving you time and freeing up your hands. Because remote start allows users to regulate the temperature inside the vehicle, many people prefer it to all other technologies. Advanced remote start features available today include access to mobile apps and specific climate control settings.
reduces time Being able to start your car before you leave your house might save you time, especially during the winter. The ice and snow on your windshield will automatically melt in a heated car, saving you time in the morning and offering you a better alternative to getting out the ice scraper.
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Cons
- Pollution Running your car when you aren’t in it will always burn more petrol and cause extra pollution. (Many remote start systems have an automatic shut-off mechanism that kicks in after 10 or 15 minutes to help combat this.)
- CostIf you frequently use the feature, utilizing all that extra fuel at the pump can add up to more money spent overall than the cost of installing remote start as an option or aftermarket modification to your car.
- Legal Requirements
- It’s against the law in several regions of the world to leave a car engine running when no one is inside. Although privacy worries about facilitating auto theft are also an issue, pollution and environmental concerns are the primary drivers of these rules.
Does Audi Have an Official Remote Start feature?
Audi doesn’t officially offer a Remote Start option. Since the majority of Audis are produced in Germany, where it is prohibited to operate a vehicle without a driver in the driver’s seat, the automaker is unable to legally add Remote Start to its models.
A remote start key fob-like device known as the Audi advanced key is an additional option.
Is it illegal to idle your car?
As was already established, leaving your automobile on the driveway might have both legal and environmental repercussions. Depending on the state you reside in, such as Arizona, California, New York, Oregon, Texas, Washington, and many others, leaving your automobile running for an extended period of time may be prohibited.
For your reference, the United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) maintains a list of states having anti-idling statutes.