Infotainment and Audi connect

The new top model of the Audi SUV family comes standard with the top infotainment system, MMI navigation plus with integrated Audi connect data transfer module. This brings not just the Wi-Fi hotspot but also the fast LTE Advanced communication standard to the car. It allows data download rates of up to 300 MBit/s and upload rates of up to 50 MBit/s. The module provides the Audi connect services in virtually all European countries via a SIM card permanently installed in the vehicle. All these systems are based on the latest-generation Modular Infotainment Platform, the MIB 2+.

A step ahead: the navigation system
The navigation system offers intelligent destination suggestions based on previously driven routes, taking into consideration past experience with respect to the time of day and traffic loads. The route is calculated online on the servers of the map and navigation provider HERE, using real-time data for the overall traffic situation. If the data connection is lost, the system switches to the on-board routing running in parallel.

The map with updated graphics includes detailed 3D models of many major cities in Europe. An expanded point-of-interest display allows drivers to access to such places as gas stations and parking garages while navigation is active, supplemented with additional information such as fuel prices, number of available parking spaces or operating hours. The customer can avail of four free map updates per year – and, in conjunction with Audi connect, even over the air.

Well-informed and entertained: connect services and auditory experience
The Audi connect online services, which are likewise free of charge the first three years, supplement navigation with predictive elements. This is particularly true for the Car-to-X services traffic sign information and hazard information, which use the swarm intelligence of the Audi fleet. Over the course of the year, the on-street parking service will be added, which makes it easier to find a parking space thanks to reports from the vehicle swarm every time a car pulls into or out of a parking space and by detecting free spaces. Audi connects also offers many other services, such as media streaming, online news and navigation with Google Earth. Access to Twitter, email and hybrid radio is also included. With the latter, the radio automatically switches between FM, DAB and the online stream depending on the signal strength to ensure optimal reception at all times.

With the Audi connect safety & service package, customers also get the functions emergency call, online roadside assist and Audi service request. Also included are remote functions with which the driver can operate their car remotely via smartphone. The myAudi app can be used to lock and unlock the car, check the current vehicle status, see where it is parked and to program the optional auxiliary heating.

The customer can also seamlessly transfer navigation routes. When they get into their car, route guidance is continued on the MMI display. When they get out of the Q8, their smartphone will guide them to their next destination. The app also supports music streaming and transfers the smartphone calendar to the MMI. The telephone number from a calendar entry can be saved as a contact and dialed directly.

The optional Audi connect key provides digital access to the Q8. It allows the owner and four additional drivers to lock and unlock the car and start the engine using their Android smartphone. They can store their preferred settings in individual profiles using the standard personalization function. Up to 400 parameters can be entered, from air conditioning settings and seat adjustments to navigation destinations and media. The car identifies the respective user from the signal in the remote control key or Audi connect key as soon as the automobile is unlocked and activates their profile.

Telephony in the Audi Q8 is top-notch with respect to operation, sound and connection quality. The Audi phone box connects the smartphone to the vehicle’s antenna and charges the phone inductively. Another function, Voice-over-LTE, helps to connect faster and makes it possible to use high-speed data transfer and high-resolution online voice telephony (HD Voice) at the same time. The Audi smartphone interface connects to customers’ iOS and Android cell phones – in the future even wirelessly in the case of the iPhone – and places their Apple Car Play or Android Auto environment on the MMI display.

To play music from an MP3 player, USB stick or smartphone through the car’s loudspeakers, the Audi Q8 has two USB ports under the center armrest as well as two optional USB ports in the rear, all of which also include a charging function. The Bang & Olufsen Advanced Sound System with 23 speakers brings the 3D sound with its height information to the front seats as well as to the rear. The music unfolds exactly how it was recorded at the concert hall – a fascinating listening experience.

All terms marked in the text are explained in detail in the technology lexicon at www.audi-mediacenter.com/en/technology-lexicon.

The equipment, data and prices specified in this document refer to the model range offered in Germany. Subject to change without notice; errors and omissions excepted.