Consumed by changes

Reprogramming becomes the focus of engineers as radios become multifunction head units integrating many infotainment functions.

The term “infotainment” has become a popular buzzword, one that translates to either headache or opportunity for many engineers. Radios are being transformed into head units that handle almost any data that drivers or passengers want to access.

The change is dramatic, changing radios from comparatively simple hardware-based systems to advanced computers that can adapt to the rapid changes of the consumer-electronics industry Coping with this tight integration between cars and portable electronics means adopting the technologies of these consumer products.