Audi Details New MIB 3 Infotainment System, Features Hybrid Digital Radio And Online Marketplace

Audi of America detailed the changes to its 2021 lineup last week, and now the company has revealed a number of upcoming models will be equipped with a new MIB 3 infotainment system.

Designed to offer a “faster, richer and more immersive user experience,” the infotainment system has a new chipset which is up to 10 times faster than previous systems.

The system features a Linux-based operating system and boasts improved voice recognition technology which promises to understand “more nuanced, conversational and natural speech.”

Also Read: Audi Details 2021 Product Changes, Announces U.S. Pricing For Dozens Of Models

The system also comes with a new basic unlimited Wi-Fi service that supports up to eight devices. Audi says the entry-level service is designed for audio streaming and remote work applications.

Customers can also upgrade to new and more flexible subscription packages. The company didn’t go into many specifics, but noted Audi connect PLUS customers will be able to take advantage of “full-speed, unlimited Wi-Fi through a 1 Gbps LTE Advanced Pro modem.”

Besides the aforementioned changes, there are host of new applications and features. These include a hybrid digital radio which will enable drivers to listen to a radio station even when they leave the broadcast area. In order to do this, the system determines when a radio signal becomes weak and then automatically switches over to the online version of the same station.

The infotainment system also brings Amazon Alexa Auto to a handful of new models including the A4, A5 and Q5. Furthermore, Audi models will be among the first vehicles to support SiriusXM with 360L which “combines satellite and streaming content delivery into a single, cohesive in-vehicle entertainment experience.”

Other highlights include a myAudi marketplace which enables owners to purchase in-car features. As part of this effort, customers who buy an A4 / A5 Premium or Premium Plus without nagivation will be able to add it after delivery.

The new infotainment system will be installed in most 2021 models including the A4, A5, A6, A7 and A8. Buyers will also find it in the Q3, Q5, Q7 and Q8. Additional models will be announced later and will likely include the all-new A3.