Smartphones are an increasingly useful tool for drivers, with a number of apps made especially for the car. But it’s illegal to hold and use handsets behind the wheel – and there’s a slick solution available so you don’t have to.
App-ready stereos mirror selected software from phone screens on to a car’s head unit, and can replace the existing hardware in most vehicles. Whether giving sat-nav directions, streaming music or helping to dictate and send text messages, they’re an innovative new direction for car audio that offers drivers the latest tech without having to replace their vehicle in order to get it. We wired up eight to find the best.
How we tested them
We liked stereos packed with features, but these were often the most expensive so we kept an eye on price, too. The prices here were taken from a range of online sources.
It was important that all stereo units were slick and easy to operate, with minimal distraction for drivers. We preferred those that worked with different smartphone platforms, and the more compatible apps that could load on to a unit’s screen, the better.
Verdict
There's double success on the podium for Pioneer as the game-changing AVIC-F70DAB scoops top spot. The fact that it works with CarPlay and Android Auto makes it especially attractive for multi-phone households. The slick SPH-DA120 sits behind Kenwood’s second-placed DNN9150DAB.
1. Pioneer AVIC-F70DAB
2. Kenwood DNN9150DAB
3. Pioneer SPH-DA120