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Next-Gen Uconnect 5 Infotainment System Gains Wireless CarPlay and More

Spank

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Uconnect is already not the best platform for security... adding something like Alexa to it just doesn't sit well with me. Hopefully these features can be fully disabled easily.
Despite the lackluster security, one thing I really like about UConnect is its simplicity. Menus and general options are easy to get to and typically require just one or two taps. A lot of infotainment systems are becoming unnecessarily complex and require a lot of user input that makes the driver spend more time dicking around on a screen instead of paying attention to the road. A perfect example of this is BMW. Their infotainment screens are beautiful, crisp, well animated, and packed with features, but have layers and layers of menus, icons, notifications, tips, and a ton of other bullshit that people shouldn't be messing around with while they're trying to navigate a two-ton steel box at 80mph.

This new UConnect system looks like it's going that route, unfortunately. And nobody, I mean nobody, needs a fucking Alexa in their car.
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pablo_max3045

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Despite the lackluster security, one thing I really like about UConnect is its simplicity. Menus and general options are easy to get to and typically require just one or two taps. A lot of infotainment systems are becoming unnecessarily complex and require a lot of user input that makes the driver spend more time dicking around on a screen instead of paying attention to the road. A perfect example of this is BMW. Their infotainment screens are beautiful, crisp, well animated, and packed with features, but have layers and layers of menus, icons, notifications, tips, and a ton of other bullshit that people shouldn't be messing around with while they're trying to navigate a two-ton steel box at 80mph.

This new UConnect system looks like it's going that route, unfortunately. And nobody, I mean nobody, needs a fucking Alexa in their car.
The nice thing about the current system is that you don't have to link your personal information or use any "online" services if you do not want to.
Of course, here in Europe we don't have any access to that stuff anyhow.... remote start, vehicle location and all that. I think we can link twitter or facebook or something, but who in the hell is linking a car to social services?

I really wish that Apple didn't act like a Nazi general when it comes to restricting what you can use on carplay. That was the deal killer for me to sell my iPhone 11 and get a pixel 4 xl. At least I can use waze and several other apps which are "forbidden" on Apple.

From time to time, I listen to the HD radio built into the uConnect, but 99% of the time I use AA listening to audio books, or Spotify.
Sure, the built in navigation is fine, but the maps are always old compared to google. The routing is worse, the traffic information is worse as well.
I just wish they would let the AA or CP navigation directions be directed to the dash screen in the middle like the built-in navi.

You are right about the complexity though. In addition to making it harder to use, it also introduces more bugs. Let's face it, FCA is not exactly #1 when it comes to pushing out bug free software. I mean, just look at how many people lose the rear camera from time to time, or the reversing lines disappear. Or sometimes audio only plays out of one speaker, and and and...
Likely with a more complex system which they have zero experience programing it will be far worse.
 

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I see Alexa being good and really bad.....
First the good.... Probably could be integrated with home....turn on/off lights open garage. Either by command or location. Could easily speak to Alexa and get info, order food, play music, etc. I'm not a user - I'm more on the apple/Carplay side.

The Bad...security! I wouldn't want Alexa listening to my conversations in the car (or anywhere), don't trust it with location details, or 3rd parties getting my data.
 

pablo_max3045

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Why anyone in their right mind thinks it's a good idea to stick a microphone in their home / car made by the largest consumer goods market on the planet, designed to to learn more about you in order to better target ads is beyond me.
In any case, if they are basing the thing on Android, why not just bake in "okay Google" android assistant, which is already far better than Siri or Alexa?
 

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Why anyone in their right mind thinks it's a good idea to stick a microphone in their home / car made by the largest consumer goods market on the planet, designed to to learn more about you in order to better target ads is beyond me.
In any case, if they are basing the thing on Android, why not just bake in "okay Google" android assistant, which is already far better than Siri or Alexa?
Android can be stripped down to support basically one app, without all the bells and whistles that you'd need for android assistant.
Good idea when only the "app" matters. (though Im no android fan).
 

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You are right about the complexity though. In addition to making it harder to use, it also introduces more bugs. Let's face it, FCA is not exactly #1 when it comes to pushing out bug free software. I mean, just look at how many people lose the rear camera from time to time, or the reversing lines disappear. Or sometimes audio only plays out of one speaker, and and and...
Likely with a more complex system which they have zero experience programing it will be far worse.
I would argue that using Android as a platform for UConnect is actually a good thing as Android is probably easier to develop for. I believe the current units still run off QNX and despite UConnect 4's excellent UI, the codebase is obviously awful based on those audio screw ups, rear camera crashing, and things like Off-Road Pages still not working correctly to this day. UConnect 5 running off Android and retaining the current look and feel would rock, but they're going to start from scratch.
 

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I really wish that Apple didn't act like a Nazi general when it comes to restricting what you can use on carplay. That was the deal killer for me to sell my iPhone 11 and get a pixel 4 xl. At least I can use waze and several other apps which are "forbidden" on Apple.
Is that a European thing - not allowing Waze? I have Waze on my iPhone 7 Plus and it is supported in Car Play. It is rapidly becoming a go to app. Gaia GPS is also supported in a beta test. It's not ready for prime time but Waze and Google Maps are solid on Apple Car Play. I have the Uconnect 7 inch unit.
 

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Is that a European thing - not allowing Waze? I have Waze on my iPhone 7 Plus and it is supported in Car Play. It is rapidly becoming a go to app. Gaia GPS is also supported in a beta test. It's not ready for prime time but Waze and Google Maps are solid on Apple Car Play. I have the Uconnect 7 inch unit.
I use Waze etc in apple Car Play in the U.K. no problems at all. iPhone SE and the 8.4 inch screen. Maybe there’s some difference in mainland Europe?
 

pablo_max3045

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Waze and Google Maps are solid on Apple Car Play.
I recall that I was able to use google maps, but waze did not show up. My told me that it is showing up for her since the last update... So seems they allow it. So, seems that restriction is indeed less.
 

Grooster

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I recall that I was able to use google maps, but waze did not show up. My told me that it is showing up for her since the last update... So seems they allow it. So, seems that restriction is indeed less.
I consider Car Play an emerging technology so I regularly check the App Store for Car Play friendly additions. I'm hopeful a weather radar app will join the small but growing list of Car Play apps. I'm thinking My Radar would be just the app to turn to during severe weather in Spring and Summer.
 

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Admin edit: FCA has yet to announce exactly when and on which models Uconnect 5 will first launch, but it should start rolling out later this year, and we hope to see it in the Jeep JL Wrangler soon!


FCA’s All-new Uconnect 5 Global Platform Is the Most Advanced Uconnect System Ever: Powerful, Personalized, Connected and Easy to Use
  • Uconnect 5 builds upon a well-established, intuitive user experience (UX) and third-party recognition with Android’s automotive operating system and processing speeds that are five times faster
  • Uconnect pioneers personalization with up to five user profiles plus valet mode, reestablishing vehicle preferences and settings with the touch of a button
  • Exclusive and customizable home screen allows quick access to frequently used features with one-touch operation
  • Uconnect expands Alexa "Home to Car" functionality to include in-vehicle Alexa virtual assistant with natural voice capability and “Car to Home” features
  • Wireless Apple CarPlay and wireless Android Auto make connecting and sharing easy
  • New TomTom navigation experience adds popular features for a built-in solution with natural voice capability and Maps Over The Air (MOTA)
  • SiriusXM’s 360L and new Personalized Stations Powered by Pandora available
  • Simultaneous dual-phone connectivity allows greater flexibility with passengers
  • Seamless integration of technology within the vehicle interior combines with card-based screens to provide an updated and refreshed look and feel
  • Firmware Over The Air (FOTA) seamlessly loads improved software updates to the vehicle
  • Improvements in Uconnect system software, strategy and hardware reduce distracted driving
  • Most screen area ever offered in an FCA product at 12.3 inches supports up to 15 million pixels in Ultra HD
  • New Uconnect system features global capability for vehicle owners in more than 150 countries

January 27, 2020 , Auburn Hills, Mich. - The Uconnect experience is expanding its functionality outside of the vehicle itself. The all-new Uconnect 5 is more connected, helpful, content rich and adds greater personalization, making it the most advanced Uconnect system ever. With future growth in mind, the advanced Uconnect 5 architecture is now scalable across all FCA brands and preps for the integration of advanced technology. Additionally, Uconnect 5’s Android operating system lays a foundation, bringing access to a broad catalog of applications to answer the rapidly developing demand for an improved user experience (UX).

Personalization
Personalization is one of the attractive features related to consumer products and the Android operating system has created a nearly infinite landscape of opportunity.

Desirable for both novice and experts alike, the all-new Uconnect 5 features several fully customizable interfaces storing up to five different user profiles. Each customer can build their own profile, featuring preferences for music and vehicle operation. The system also connects vehicle-side systems to a driver’s profile, such as temperature, seating position and mirror placement. Switching between user profiles is simple and can be handled by a single touch.

User Experience (UX)
UX is a significant reason for purchase and Uconnect 5 responds by providing an easy-to-use, intuitive and personalized experience for every customer. The UX design team worked hand in hand with the interior and color and material design teams to seamlessly integrate the new technology into each vehicle and make appropriate use of the three available screen styles – portrait, square and landscape. To integrate screens inside the vehicle, UX designers created detailed backdrops to match interior colors and themes. Screen graphics are specific to brand and even vehicle trim level. Surface integration also plays a role and coordinates with the surrounding interior materials. Care is taken with screen edges, location, angle and depth for proper viewing.

The all-new Uconnect 5 allows users to create an exclusive home screen with a familiar feel. Similar to specific icon placement on a mobile phone or computer, customers can personalize the Uconnect home screen with frequently used features for quick and easy access, featuring one-touch operation.

Uconnect 5 introduces a new, card-based format that allows display screens to be personalized, simplified and grouped by individual needs and interests while delivering a cleaner, fresher look. With multiple cards, the user can access the available features and determine how and where they are displayed. Once inside a card, information and icons can be accessed in no more than two button pushes.

Powerful
The Uconnect performance upgrade starts with hardware. The system processing power, reaction speed and memory have been enhanced to take advantage of the new Android operating system. The Atlantis architecture replaces Powernet as the next generation of FCA core in-vehicle electronics communication. In combination with an upgraded 50K MIP chip, 6GB of RAM and up to 64GB of flash memory, the all-new Uconnect 5 delivers operating speeds that are five times faster when compared to the previous generation. Faster processing speeds, an advanced electrical architecture and more memory give the all-new Uconnect its lightning-quick response to touchscreen input.

Additional outputs enable up to four displays in the vehicle. Screens are available in a variety of aspect ratios, standard, landscape and portrait, offering more flexibility in packaging and design across all FCA brands. With up to 15 million pixels in Ultra HD, screens can work separately or in harmony, depending on user preference and purpose. The all-new Uconnect 5 also represents the most screen area ever offered in an FCA product at up to 12.3 inches.

Alexa
With the Uconnect skill for Alexa, customers with Alexa-enabled devices at home can easily ask Alexa to start the car, lock/unlock doors and more. Uconnect 5 brings Amazon Alexa directly into the vehicle itself, giving occupants the freedom to interact with Alexa just as they do at home or on a personal device. With Alexa built-in, occupants can ask Alexa to play music, podcasts and audiobooks; add items to their to-do list; check news, weather, traffic, sports and other real-time information; and access tens of thousands of Alexa skills. Responses and streaming audio are delivered through the vehicle’s audio system, allowing anyone in the entire vehicle to easily interact with Alexa.

Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
The award-winning Uconnect system offers new conveniences, keeping customers engaged and informed all while keeping their hands on the wheel and eyes on the road. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are currently available on more than 80 percent of FCA’s North American applications. Uconnect 5 will bring Apple CarPlay and Android Auto to 100 percent of FCA’s North American offerings. The feature also adds wireless connectivity, allowing customers to wirelessly project phone apps quick and easy, while leaving phones securely stowed.

Voice Recognition
The all-new Uconnect 5 adds exclusive features to the overall system and select features to specific vehicles for the first time with voice recognition available on all product lines. Better control of features in the vehicle with voice is arguably the most important technology to continue improving. Uconnect 5 features a new voice recognition engine with software, microphone technology and natural voice capability. Statements that would normally be only understood in human-to-human conversation can now be used to communicate with the navigation system, such as “Find an available EV charging station near me.” The advanced voice control system also improves its listening ability in high background noise situations, such as a rolled down window or rain hitting the windshield. Additionally, the embedded FCA voice recognition system has a new "wake up word" available that correlates to the brand of the vehicle: “Hey Chrysler, change the temperature to 70 degrees.” This feature eliminates the need to press a button to initiate the voice recognition system. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto also can be controlled via voice, engaged by pressing the voice recognition button.

Dual-phone Connectivity
The all-new Uconnect 5 features the ability to connect two Bluetooth phones simultaneously. This addresses many users who carry multiple phones or for passenger interaction with the Uconnect system along with the driver. Either way, Uconnect can manage input from two different devices with the ability to name one a priority over the other for various functions, including navigation, phone, music selection and text messages.

Navigation
Uconnect’s all-new advanced navigation is an intuitive built-in solution from TomTom navigation, integrating the latest technology. The Uconnect built-in navigation now includes TomTom’s traffic, EV & connected services, giving drivers the latest information for a safer and smoother journey.

Similar to personal devices, One-Box-Search makes it easy and intuitive to find a destination (search by voice or text). Unlike personal devices, even without internet connectivity, search and guidance continue to work with the system simply switching to offline map data.

Guidance is enhanced with the best possible routing, featuring the ability to add a destination along your route and an ETA that offers alternative routes with time extensions. Destination Prediction enables the system to learn when it is time to prompt the driver with guidance towards one of the user-saved favorite places.

Maps Over the Air and Last Mile Navigation also are new to Uconnect. Maps Over the Air is a TomTom technology which automatically detects, downloads and installs relevant available map updates in the background, without disrupting the navigation experience. Last mile navigation provides walking directions from your vehicle to your final destination, via the Uconnect companion smartphone app.

The built-in navigation links vehicle systems to the route, accomplishing what phone navigation systems cannot. By 2022, FCA will offer more than 30 nameplates with electrified powertrains, half of which are plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEV) or battery-electric vehicles (BEV), creating the need for charging stations to be integrated with the maps. Dynamic Range Mapping helps the driver to visualize the vehicle’s range by displaying on the map how far they can drive with current fuel/charge levels. If the range is insufficient to make it to the selected destination, Uconnect 5 will make suggestions for recharging /refueling with a cost comparison. A warning appears on-screen, prompting the user to choose a charging point/fuel station which is available and within range.

Multi-lane guidance provides specific lane information and detailed turns to help navigate through complicated intersections and on/off ramps, highlighting the suggested route well ahead of commanded guidance. Uconnect projects this information, as well as speed camera, traffic and hazard warnings to the vehicle’s cluster screen. This feature reduces lateral head movement so drivers can focus their attention on the road.

SiriusXM with 360L
FCA was the first in the industry to offer SiriusXM with 360L and is the only automaker that provides owners with a 12-month trial of the next-generation audio listening experience. The 12-month trial of SiriusXM with 360L includes Personalized Stations Powered by Pandora along with thousands of hours of downloadable content, including live sports, free on-demand shows, performances and interviews.

Services
Uconnect 5 uses a cloud-based platform to power connectivity and deliver a full array of services, including the Uconnect Market in-vehicle commerce platform. The feature gives customers the opportunity to conveniently order food, find the nearest gas station, save money on fuel purchases and make dinner reservations, all from the comfort of the vehicle. With the new platform, FCA owners will be able to skip lines and save time by ordering (and paying for) food and beverages, reserve a table on the way to their favorite restaurant or locate and securely authorize pump-and-pay fuel at participating locations. Drivers can also locate and pay for nearby parking and schedule service appointments at FCA dealerships, all while in the vehicle without having to reach for a physical credit card.

Wi-Fi
4G LTE Wi-Fi hotspot is improved with a faster operating system. Processing speeds that are five times faster assist in keeping up to eight devices connected. The new software, hardware and operating system take the next evolutional step toward 5G. Uconnect 5 includes a three-month subscription with vehicle purchase.

Uconnect Mobile App
Uconnect’s history began with phone integration and has continued to evolve. With the available Uconnect app, you can use your smartphone to start your engine, lock or unlock your vehicle or receive a notification. Inside the vehicle, SOS Call provides external assistance at the touch of a button. An automatic feature calls for outside assistance if the vehicle senses a crash has taken place. With Assist Call, owners can contact the Uconnect customer care team for help with their vehicle or instructions on using a Uconnect system. Stolen Vehicle Assistance can help police track a vehicle’s location and Family Drive Alerts delivers notifications to concerned parents when boundary, curfew or speed limits are broken. Owners can also receive a notification when someone else drives the vehicle while in Valet Alert mode.

Eyes on the Road
The all-new Uconnect features additional elements to reduce distracted driving. Voice control is improved with new microphone technology and placement. Upgraded software identifies more tone variation and recognizes commands versus background noise, such as wind noise from a window rolled down at speed. Auto dimming and strategic use of warning signals and graphic displays have been tested in real-world driving conditions to cover a wide range of responses from individual drivers. For example, there are redundant audio and visual warnings for an automatic emergency braking event. Auto dimming and night mode on the screen help reduce eye strain when driving in the dark or in tunnels, with independent settings for each screen. For users who prefer touchscreen controls, redundant HVAC, comfort and radio operations within the touchscreen are improved for ease of use and response time.

Firmware Over The Air (FOTA) Updates
Servicing and updating your FCA vehicle has never been easier. In-vehicle messaging will notify owners when an oil change is needed. This and other features work in harmony with the Vehicle Health Report and Vehicle Health Alert to provide the most up-to-date information. For some updates, FOTA will automatically load the improved software to the vehicle, seamlessly. Other services can be handled at your local dealer with a Service Scheduling feature.

Uconnect’s Android operating system brings access to a broad catalog of connected features and the adaptability preps the platform for future growth. In planning for additional automated technology, the all-new Uconnect system takes autonomous driving initiatives into consideration for future products with the addition of a Telematics Box Module (TBM). The TBM assists in quickly moving large amounts of data, engineered for the fastest speeds available. The trusted and secure ecosystem provides an optimal environment for continuous improvement through a built-in cellular network.


All-new Uconnect 5 home screen

Screen Shot 2020-01-27 at 9.31.33 AM.png



All-new Uconnect 5 personalized user profile

Screen Shot 2020-01-27 at 9.31.48 AM.png



All-new Uconnect 5 Uconnect Market

Screen Shot 2020-01-27 at 9.31.58 AM.png



All-new Uconnect 5 with Alexa

Screen Shot 2020-01-27 at 9.32.07 AM.png



All-new Uconnect 5 weather screen

Screen Shot 2020-01-27 at 9.32.16 AM.png



All-new Uconnect 5 with TomTom navigation and Maps Over the Air

Screen Shot 2020-01-27 at 9.32.25 AM.png
With the CAN bus likely not changing, what are the odds of it being possible to install a uConnect 5 head unit on an earlier model JL? I would love to get wireless CarPlay and the Android head units are generally way more stable than the QNX crap we have now.
 

Chad1433

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Does anyone really want all this?

I find the touchscreens to be extremely distracting while driving. I much prefer the tactile feel of dials and buttons and hunting around for climate controls while you're already cold is annoying. In a climate where society is constantly harping on distracted driving, all this just adds a layer of "stupid".

I also have serious security concerns about the ever expanding digital vehicle suites. I know what plans they have in the works for some of these systems and I am NOT impressed. Alexa is notoriously listening to everything, all the time and now it's going to connect in your car? No thanks.

I have problems with the radio installed in my Jeep already, after 6 months. Adding in a more complex system to an already electronically delicate suite seems like a recipe for headaches. When it comes to Wranglers, simpler, more analog is better, IMO.
 

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While I like tech, I agree that it is a bit too much at times....I would HAVE to think that Alexa can be disabled....THEY CAN'T force you to allow a third party to listen in on your everyday conversations.... It's plain unconstitutional.
 

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Just tell yourself that if you used wireless you'd still have to constantly charge your phone so you'll be looking for a cable anyway.. that's what I do to make me feel better lol

At least my AA is pretty reliable now, too! 2018 was rough. It always broke when I was on a road trip.

edit: Oh, you were probably cursing it because your wired connection broke.. ahh memories. If that's still a problem it completely went away when I upgraded from an S8 to an S10! Going to jinx myself but I haven't had that happen in a long time. And holy crap AA is so much faster on this phone. I have a feeling a lot of power goes into running AA on the phones end and it's not just a mirrored display, but I'm not really sure.
If AA we're wireless, I'd just put my phone on an wireless charging pad in my Jeep.
 

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I have a wireless charging pad for my S10. Works very well. I abandoned AAuto. Google updates the software at whim which seemed to confuse UConnect. I installed a Garmin for nav. It has voice control and I like that it is dedicated to nav, not commerce. AAuto seemed too integrated, meaning, if anything goes wrong then everything goes down (phone, nav, music, etc.) With Garmin, SiriusXM, and wireless BTooth (Pandora & phone/sms) my system has been quite reliable and has minimum data requirements.
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