Soundstream will introduce their first Alexa-enabled head unit at CES 2018, model VRA-67B. With Amazons’s Alexa Voice Service (AVS) built-in, you will be able to “talk to your car” just like you would to an Amazon Echo. However, it doesn’t appear to function like an Amazon Echo Show even though it looks like it could. That means no graphically displayed answers or watching videos via Alexa.
I also suspect you’ll need a paired smartphone to provide internet access for Alexa to work. It’s also unclear what further interoperability between the head unit and a smartphone are possible.
The Soundstream VRA-67B head unit features a double-DIN screen with a 6.2″ LCD touchscreen. Additional features include: DVD, CD/MP3, AM/FM receiver and 4.0 Bluetooth Connectivity.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dnlqMw3ufhM
Alexa Capabilities
- News and Entertainment – This includes information on the latest headlines and such information as the weather.
- Notifications – Ask Alexa for to remind you of all of your appointments and meetings.
- Localized Search – Ask to be taken to your nearest mall or McDonald’s all via voice command.
Price and Availability
The Soundstream VRA-67B Alexa head unit is expected to be available second quarter of 2018. Pricing has not been announced.
