Most of us are increasingly taking for granted the technology advances that come with cars every year. Most people do not change cars every five years or so, but we still find ways to include the new tech into our existing vehicles as seamlessly as possible in order to not be at the forefront of innovation, but to ensure that our needs are covered in line with societal expectations. One of the features that we perhaps take for granted nowadays is an infotainment system, but not all of them were created equal, and the ones that come installed in the cars can be rendered obsolete quite quickly.
Nowadays these systems have automatic software updates that ensure that users will still find them more than serviceable after a few years, but any system that was installed in a car more than 10 years ago is probably feeling quite bare as they do not have access to some of the modern apps and features like google maps or other navigation systems.
The pros and cons of an aftermarket infotainment system
The cons are pretty obvious and anyone that is over the age of 35 can guess most of them based on prior experience with evolving music tech, but let’s go over some of them.
-They can look bulky and clunky and, in most cases, it is fairly obvious that it is an aftermarket addition, which makes it easy to steal.
– Even though they are not expensive per se, a good one can still run you a good chunk of cash, which makes it an expense that you will not get back, as tech depreciates rapidly, and it is highly likely that you will need to upgrade at some point to an even more expensive system just to keep up.
– Since they are not integrated, they can be uncomfortable and impede other car functions and even visibility, which can make them annoying to use.
– A bigger screen with more options is always a bigger distraction, and since they have a learning curve and sometimes they may not be as seamless as we would like, it can cause the driver to be distracted and not be as focused on the road.
– In order to run properly they need an extra sim card for internet connection or to be paired with your phone data plan, which can make it a recurring expense or an annoyance to deal with.
But not everything is a negative, after all there is a reason why they are so popular, some of the pros are:
– Most systems enhance navigation with an interactive and user-friendly interface and can functions as a car computer, allowing for internet browsing and various computing tasks.
– Most models include either a built-in SIM card slots for seamless internet connectivity and map downloads or some kind of connection to be able to access the services.
– They are heavily customizable and allow users the ability to install various apps for entertainment, navigation, and productivity limiting the use to only one screen and eliminating some of the temptation to look at the phone while driving.
– Most systems have additional USB ports which support charging, data transfer, and connectivity with other external devices making the experience even more seamless. They are also compatible with both Android and iPhone devices via Bluetooth for calls and media playback.
While both pros and cons lists have their merits, the reality is that only you know how much tech you use and need for your day to day needs, and whether or not one of these systems is worth it for you. Just don’t get caught up in all the glitz and glam. They may be helpful, but they can be just as annoying as not having them.
