Infiniti, Nissan’s luxury vehicle division, has introduced a feature in its new full-sized SUV that allows the driver to take a phone call while the passengers continue to listen to music without headphones. The driver is the only one who can hear the call, and the person on the other end of the call cannot hear the music playing in the SUV. This innovation is a game-changer in the competitive world of luxury car sound systems, where brands like Burmeister, McIntosh, and Bang & Olufson are known for their high-end audio systems.
The system in the Infiniti QX80, developed in collaboration with Panasonic Automotive and Klipsch, uses clever speaker placement and sound canceling technology to create a quiet bubble around the driver. Sound canceling technology, which usually works by using speakers to create off-setting sound waves to deaden unwanted sounds, is utilized in this system to ensure that only the driver can hear a phone call or navigation prompts. The digital music track being played is read to create offsetting sound waves from speakers around the driver’s seat, allowing the passengers to listen to music at full volume without interference.
The redesigned QX80 is set to go on sale next year, but the system was tested in a QX80 parked inside a building in Manhattan. The technology was put to the test in a noisy environment, and it performed well in drowning out background noise and allowing the driver to take calls without interfering with the music playing in the vehicle. The call-masking feature is effective only when music is playing on the stereo; otherwise, other people in the SUV will still have to listen to the call, albeit at a lower volume.
The experience of using this system was described as positive, with the driver being able to hear the person on the phone while the passengers could listen to music without any interference. However, if music is not playing, the other passengers in the vehicle will have to hear the call, albeit at a reduced volume. Despite this limitation, the innovation in luxury car sound systems adds a new dimension to the driving experience and ensures that everyone can enjoy their preferred audio content without disturbance.
Overall, the advancement in luxury car sound systems with features like call-masking technology adds value to the driving experience and enhances convenience for both the driver and passengers. As the competition in the luxury car market intensifies, companies are focusing on improving their sound systems to meet the demands of discerning customers. With this new system in the Infiniti QX80, the driver can seamlessly switch between taking calls and enjoying music while ensuring that others in the vehicle are not disturbed. This innovative technology sets a new standard in luxury vehicle sound systems and demonstrates the potential for continued advancements in in-car audio.
