Clarion Malaysia, the people behind the Mirage Android-based OEM car stereo system, has officially unveiled an all-new model called the AX1.
The AX1, which stands for “Android Experience 1,” is a touch-screen
two-DIN system which runs on the Android 2.3.7 Gingerbread operating
system. It’s powered by an ARM Cortex 800MHz processor with 1GB of RAM,
and features a 6.5-inch WVGA TFT LCD capacitive display.
The unit also has a built-in 24-watt four-channel digital amplifier, a
six-channel RCA output, a rear view camera input and a HDMI video
output. Also on the list is an image viewer and 1080P full-HD video
playback capability. You can view and play all these, as well as music,
via the built-in SD card slot or from the two USB outlets available.
Clarion is equipped with a 6.5-inch LCD
hooked up to Android’s touch-screen graphical user interface (GUI). I
don’t use an Android handset, but according to a Samsung Galaxy Note
user, the Mirage’s GUI is instantly familiar.
With Android comes apps, and Clarion had one demo unit with Facebook,
Twitter and even Angry Birds installed. There are of course many more
apps from the Play Store.
But let’s not forget that this is a car stereo, so besides the
Android bits, the Mirage is an AVN style double-DIN player that accepts
SD cards, USB devices and Bluetooth connect, although it doesn’t have a
disc slot.
Clarion believes that it’s looking forward, and discs are yesterday’s
media. Besides, the head unit will be more reliable and longer lasting
without a disc mechanism, the R&D guys explained. Android it may be,
but the Mirage is iOS friendly – plug in your iPhone or iPod to play
your portable music
You can also connect your iPod and iPhone for video and audio
playback while charging your device at the same time. The system also
supports Bluetooth connectivity, which enables you to enjoy hands-free
communication, apart from streaming audio and video.
The AX1 is also Internet capable via tethering, which opens doors to a
host of features such as browsing, watching YouTube, sending and
replying emails and more.
For those who fully rely on a GPS for their daily drives, you’ll be
pleased to know that the AX1 also comes with an in-built GPS system,
complete with Malaysian maps through an app called iGO.
At the launch, Clarion Malaysia also announced that the first 3,000
units of the AX1 will carry a special introductory price tag of RM1,599,
while the expected recommend retail price is eventually set to hover
around the US$725 mark, which translates to about RM2,385.
