Audi is revamping its infotainment system back-end technology for the 2021 model year. Promising a faster processing time, broader functionality, and a more extensive range of entertainment opportunities, the Modular Infotainment Toolkit (MIB 3) will power the Multimedia Interface (MMI) in many Audi vehicles by the fall of 2020.
A History of MIB in Audi Vehicles
The Modular Infotainment Matrix (MIB) launched with the 2013 Audi A3, debuting at the 2012 Consumer Electronics Show (CES) in Las Vegas. Featuring a touchpad with gesture and handwriting recognition incorporated into the existing rotary pushbutton controller, Audi MIB expanded on features already available in the A7 and A8.
With seamless integration of mobile apps, a sophisticated head-up display, 3D graphics on the central screen, and a built-in Wireless Local Area Network (WLAN) hotspot, Audi MIB was state-of-the-art back in 2012. The Audi Phone Box, a universal interface connecting a mobile phone with the vehicle, also launched in 2012.
A second-generation MIB 2 system debuted in the 2016 Audi A6 and A7 models. This upgraded version featured a quad-core processor with even higher resolution graphics, faster performance, and the ability to upgrade software as more sophisticated technology became available. Audi also redesigned the user interface to a fully 3D graphical experience.
As part of its focus as a technology leader, Audi showcased an industry-first, entirely digital dashboard for the all-new 2016 Audi TT. This combined the standard gauges with a central MMI monitor into a single 12.3-inch display with stunning life-like graphics and a beautiful presentation. In most other Audi models, however, the digital instrumentation and MMI infotainment display(s) remained separate.
What Does MIB 3 include?
This latest edition of Audi’s infotainment system is called MIB 3. It debuted in the refreshed 2020 Audi A4 and A5 lineups and is rolling out to most of the automaker’s 2021 model-year vehicles.
Audi MIB 3 has new componentry, resulting in a chipset ten times faster than previous versions. New Audi Connect Generation 3 provides Connect Prime subscribers with basic unlimited Wi-Fi for up to eight devices. Verizon supplies wireless in-vehicle functionality, which includes a new Linux-based operating system, LTE Advanced Pro modem with download speed up to 1 Gbps, 2.4 and 5 GHz bands, and HD voice communication.
New features include a hybrid digital radio, expanded SiriusXM with 360L, a new myAudi app digital storefront, on-demand navigational features, more frequent map updates, Amazon Alexa Auto, and an expanded toll collection module.
Hybrid digital radio comes in handy when traveling outside of a channel’s normal range. When the system senses a weak radio signal, the hybrid capability kicks in, picking up the digital feed to ensure a continuous listening experience.
Expanded SiriusXM with 360L offers upwards of 10,000 hours of on-demand content to its already integrated satellite and streaming service. “For You” subscribers can discover new content based on existing interests, and readily access college and professional sports, including home and away broadcasts. Customizable profiles for drivers and passengers are stored in the vehicle for added personalization.
The marketplace accessible through the myAudi app includes several upgrades, such as the ability to purchase in-car features and more flexible subscription plans. Audi Connect Prime and Plus subscribers will enjoy a simplified registration and payment system. Function-on-demand allows 2020 and 2021 A4 and A5 Premium and Premium Plus owners to purchase in-car navigation for vehicles not equipped with factory-installed nav.
Amazon Alexa Auto allows user to pair their Alexa account with their Audi vehicle. Alexa integration provides a wide variety of Alexa skills such as getting directions, checking the weather, obtaining news and sports updates, ordering groceries, and streaming audiobooks and music. Control over smart home devices such as lights, door locks, and garage doors is also available, along with integration of apps that locate and pay for parking. Alexa first launched in the 2019 Audi e-tron SUV and expanded to include many 2020 Audi models. The 2021 Audi A4 and A5 both add Alexa integration.
With more and more municipalities moving to electronic tolling, Audi’s industry-first integrated toll module (ITM) will expand availability. The ITM allows drivers to adjust the module’s setting, including turning it on and off and adjusting for high occupancy vehicle (HOV) lanes. Following on the heels of availability in the 2019 Audi e-tron and 2020 Audi Q7, the ITM will launch in most other Audi models.
These features all complement an already impressive array of capabilities in Audi’s MMI. These include a 4G LTE Wi-Fi hotspot, an inductive charging system via the Audi Phone Box, and Traffic Light Information with Green Light Optimized Speed Advisory technology.
Pricing and user licensing for specific features will be available from Audi closer to on-sale dates.
The information in this article is from Audi. It was accurate on May 20, 2020 but may have changed since that date.
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