What is an Automotive Infotainment System and What are Its Main Components?

Whenever we come across the word ‘technology’, the first thing that pops up in most minds is probably flying cars since cars have been the triumph of technology. Although the concept of flying cars seems irrational and unfeasible at present times, one can relish a splendid driving experience with automotive infotainment systems. Despite the seats and steering wheels remaining the same, the core of the automotive industry has definitely upgraded unimaginably. While most people love the idea and a handful of others loathe it, the market analysts predict that the global automotive infotainment market will generate $20,720 million by 2030 and grow at a decent 8.32% CAGR. So, let’s learn a little about these technologically advanced systems.

What is Automotive Infotainment?

Automotive infotainment can be described as a blend of vehicle systems used to provide entertainment as well as information to the driver through videos, audios, button panel, voice commands, touch screen displays, and much more. The increasing demand for luxurious cars and rising technological advancements are the main reasons to boost the production and sales of in-car infotainment.

What are the Main Components of an Automotive Infotainment System?

An automotive infotainment system consists of multiple integrated systems and also utilizes some external devices to offer entertainment and information to the driver and passengers. Some of the main components of this system are:

1. Heads-up Display

One of the integral parts of the automotive infotainment, a heads-up display shows vehicle’s real-time information on a transparent screen that’s integrated with the car’s windshield. These displays help drivers by reducing distraction while driving and assists with navigation maps, electronic digital cluster, climate, multimedia options, and more.

2. Integrated Head-unit

A head unit is a tablet like touch screen-based device mounted on the car’s dashboard that acts as a connected control center for the entire infotainment system.

3. Operating System

Just like a computer is nothing without an OS, an automotive infotainment system is nothing without operating systems like QNX, Windows, Linux, and Android. An OS is responsible for supporting connectivity, integration of new functions, convenience functions, etc.

4. GPUs and DSPs for Multiple Displays

GPUs and  digital signal processors or DSPs are types of processors that are designed for advanced infotainment systems and can display content on multiple screens like connected smartphones, heads-up display, head-unit, etc.

5. Connectivity Modules

Connectivity modules like Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, GPS, etc. offer easy connectivity with outside networks and devices and also helps in establishing services like internet connectivity, smartphone connectivity, navigation, and much more.

6. Digital Instrument Cluster

The digital instrument cluster consists of digital displays of the traditional analog gauges like odometer, speedometer, RPM, and others.

7. Automotive Sensors Integration

This component consists of gesture recognition sensors, proximity sensors, and camera sensors that integrate well with the infotainment system to provide safety-related information to the driver.

A Modern Solution for Your Car

Automotive infotainment systems add a luxurious touch to vehicles and offer an interactive experience to the driver with the help of the above-mentioned components. Besides playing your favorite song tracks or watching relaxing YouTube videos, you can now also get real-time traffic updates and call/text your loved ones without actually doing anything!

About the Author(s)

Princy A. J

Princy holds a bachelor’s degree in Civil Engineering from the prestigious Tamil Nadu Dr. M.G.R. University at Chennai, India. After a successful academic record, she pursued her passion for writing. A thorough professional and enthusiastic writer, she enjoys writing on various categories and advancements in the global industries. She plays an instrumental role in writing about current updates, news, blogs, and trends.