In the age of digital revolution, even your old vehicle can be upgraded with a voice-activated navigation system to enjoy the marvels of technology. No matter if your car does not feature a built-in navigation display, there are several easy-to-use devices and apps that can turn your old car into a smart vehicle. This guide will walk you through the process of setting up a voice-activated navigation system in your older model UK car.
Choosing the Right Navigation System
Before delving into the specific steps of setting up a voice-activated navigation system, it’s important to understand the different types of systems available on the market. The choice of navigation system largely depends on the age and features of your car. Most systems use a combination of GPS technology and voice recognition software to provide driving instructions. Some systems connect through your car’s existing audio system, while others require a separate display screen.
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Popular choices include standalone GPS units, smartphone apps like Google Maps and Waze, and Android Auto or Apple CarPlay systems. The latter two integrate your phone with your car’s audio system, and offer voice control features. Remember, some older cars may not support Android Auto or CarPlay, but that does not mean you can’t enjoy a state-of-the-art navigation system.
Installing a Standalone GPS Unit
Standalone GPS units are a popular choice for older vehicles. They offer a clear display, reliable GPS tracking, and often feature voice command capabilities.
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Firstly, you need to choose a position for the GPS unit. The best place to mount the unit is in a spot on your dashboard where it won’t obstruct your view, but is easily readable. The device will come with a mount which you can attach to your dashboard using a suction cup or adhesive strip.
Once the unit is mounted, you need to connect it to a power source. Most units come with a power cord that plugs into your vehicle’s 12-volt power outlet.
Now, you are ready to set up the unit. Turn on the GPS unit and follow the onscreen instructions to set your preferred language, units of measure and other preferences. To set up voice control, look for a ‘Voice Command’ or similar option in the Settings menu. The GPS unit will guide you through a process of setting up voice commands and will likely require you to speak several sample phrases for it to learn your voice.
Using a Smartphone App for Navigation
If you prefer to use your smartphone for navigation, apps like Google Maps and Waze offer voice control features. Ensure your phone is fully charged or connected to a power source in your vehicle as these apps can consume a significant amount of battery life.
Once your app is downloaded and opened, you can access the voice command feature usually found in the settings menu of the app. For Google Maps, simply tap the microphone icon on the search bar and speak your destination. You can say, “Navigate to [destination],” and the app will generate a route.
To ensure safety while driving, it is recommended to use a phone mount so you can easily see the map display. You need to position the mount in a place that is easily visible but does not obstruct your view.
Setting Up Android Auto or Apple CarPlay
If your car’s audio system is compatible, Android Auto or Apple CarPlay offer an integrated navigation system that combines your phone’s capabilities with your car’s audio system. You will need a USB cable to connect your phone to your car.
After your phone is connected, you will typically need to download the Android Auto or Apple CarPlay app from the relevant app store. Once the app is installed, follow the onscreen instructions to set up the system.
To use voice commands, you can say “OK Google” or “Hey Siri” followed by a command such as “navigate to [destination]”. The system will sync your command and display the navigation map on your car’s screen or phone display.
Fine-Tuning Your Navigation System
Now that your voice-activated navigation system is set up, there are a few additional settings you may want to fine-tune.
In the settings menu of your system or app, you can usually select from various options for voice guidance. You can choose to have all directions read out, or only key directions. Some systems also offer a choice of voices or language.
Remember to regularly update your system or app to ensure you have the latest maps and features. Some standalone GPS units may require you to connect the unit to a computer for updates, while smartphone apps and Android Auto or Apple CarPlay will update automatically when connected to Wi-Fi.
Lastly, familiarise yourself with how to operate the voice command feature safely while driving. Practice using voice commands to control not only navigation, but also other features of your system such as making calls or playing music. This will allow you to take full advantage of your new voice-activated navigation system while ensuring you remain focused on driving safely.
Upgrading Your Audio System for Voice Control
For an even more integrated experience, you may want to consider upgrading your car’s audio system to a model that comes with Android Auto or Apple CarPlay built-in. Many third-party companies offer these systems that are designed to fit a variety of older model cars. The newer systems not only provide voice-activated navigation, but they also offer voice control of other features such as phone calls, music, and even seat warmers, depending on the vehicle. Many systems also allow you to control these features through buttons on the steering wheel for added safety and convenience.
To install these systems, it’s usually best to enlist the help of a professional. They will ensure that the software version is compatible with your vehicle, and that the system is properly installed and integrated with your car’s existing features. To use voice control, you will need to connect your phone using a USB cable to the system and follow the onscreen instructions to set up Android Auto or Apple CarPlay.
It’s crucial to keep your system up to date with the latest software and map updates. New updates not only provide the latest maps and points of interest but also improve the voice recognition capabilities of the system. Updates are usually carried out by connecting your phone to Wi-Fi and allowing the app to auto-update, or in some cases, you might need to download an update onto a USB stick and manually update the system in the car.
Conclusion: Embracing the Future of Car Navigation
As you can see, setting up a voice-activated navigation system in an older model UK car is not as daunting as it may seem. By carefully choosing the right system, such as a standalone GPS unit, a smartphone app, or even upgrading to an Android Auto or Apple CarPlay enabled audio system, you can enjoy the convenience and safety of voice-controlled navigation.
Remember, the key to a successful setup is ensuring your chosen system is compatible with your car, whether it’s a standalone unit or a third-party audio system upgrade that is installed by a professional. Regularly update your system for the latest features and maps, and take time to familiarise yourself with the voice control features.
In conclusion, adding a voice-activated navigation system to your older car is a great way to update your vehicle and keep pace with technology. Not only will it make your journeys easier and safer, but it also allows you to focus on the road, ensuring you get to your destination smoothly. Embrace the future of car navigation and enjoy the ride!
