We'd go as far as saying Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are must-have features on a new car, but now numerous big-name aftermarket audio firms provide compatible devices of some description. We tested Sony's option a few years ago and, while Kenwood's isn't a like-for-like alternative (technology moves fast and that review's now three years old), it is more advanced. Our biggest complaint is that the Sony we previously tested used an old-fashioned volume knob rather than buttons. We find this more intuitive to use than the Kenwood's buttons but, if your car has steering wheel controls (our 2005 Toyota MR2 test vehicle doesn't) they can be connected to the media system. The 13 band EQ and digital sound processor allows you to fine tune your music to get the best from your speakers and cabin acoustics, it even has digital time alignment so you can get the setup just perfect. Connect your smartphone via USB to mirror its display on the DMX5020DABS system. Operate your favourite Apple and Android applications with the DMX5020DABS's touch panel. Apple Carplay and Android Auto connectivity allows you to control your compatible applications directly from the large touch screen head unit of theDMX5020DABS. Stream your music content via Spotify or navigate to your destination using Waze navigation app, which features live traffic updates and speed camera alerts.The Kenwood DMX5020DABS is a true in car multimedia system. Play your stored media, both audio and video, from USB storage devices (See file compatibility below)or stream directly from your smartphone via Bluetooth or USB cable. Take advantage of the DAB+ digital radio and listen to the crisp clear digital radio broadcast during your journey. Depending on the connected control unit, source name may be displayed "EXT-MEDIA", "*-MEDIA" or CD Changer ("CD-CH"etc.).KENWOOD DMX5020DABS is the latest CarPlay & Android Auto 6.8” model – ideal for getting your apps on the go. However you listen to music or plan your journey this unit will have something to offer; DAB+, also known as Digital Audio Broadcasting Plus, provides crystal-clear audio quality and interference-free reception. DAB+ uses the AAC+ audio codec, which allows for greater compression without loss of audio quality and is comparable with CD audio quality. It uses a more efficient coding system to transmit digital data resulting in more stations being able to broadcast on the same frequency and allows for the delivery real time data services such as such as the station name and logo, presenter, song title and album artwork. Best of all, it will bring your car bang up to date with access to the very latest in smartphone connectivity. Which is the smartest choice to go with your phone? How we tested them Note: If your "USB" connected devise does not function (e.g. iPhone4, etc. ), please re-connect your "USB" device using " iPod 1 USB port". data-src="https://cdn.media.amplience.net/i/washford/Halfords Car Audio fitting & installation service"

Android Auto is a simple way to use your Android phone in the car. The KENWOOD receivers combine an intuitive voice controlled interface with a large touch screen and superior sound quality, allowing you to enjoy features including Google Maps and more. Wireless connection is available on compatible Android Phones.

The key selling point of the Kenwood DMX8020DABS is its Apple CarPlay/Android Auto compatibility. If you haven't used these before, they're brilliant – just connect your phone (via Bluetooth or old-fashioned USB) and you can access all your favourite apps on the move. Or some of them, at least (Spotify, Google Maps and Waze to name a few).

Modification, alteration, translation, merging, reverse compiling, or reverse engineering of this software is prohibited.When the DNPS function of the center unit is operated, system will restrict title selection or other functions of the iPod for ten seconds. (Will resume in ten seconds.) There's not a lot going against the Kenwood DMX8020DABS. There are cheaper options, but you kind of get what you pay for. Not only does it do pretty much everything you could possibly want from an aftermarket infotainment system, you can also rest easy in the knowledge that Kenwood is one of the biggest names in automotive audio tech. a>