ANS-810 / ANS-510 (PROPER RNS-510 alternative)

[wai]

Unfortunately there is never a right way to deal with this. It seemed like we were being listened to, only we who have the units now don't see the benefit of it as it means buying again. It does not mean we have something that does not work, just that the promise it showed is cut short.

Something like this can backfire big time.

The main thing is the navigation side. I do hope that this does not mean we suddenly end up with no more map updates unless we re-buy the new ones.

[Transporter]

Most people probably don't upgrade their unit in the car, afterall it's not the PC or iPad and as long as it works, it really shouldn't matter that there won't be the sw upgrades. As long as they keep the maps upgrading.

[DSGVW]

Don't worry about map updates.. you can grab them online for iGO Primo like 2-3 times per year. I have 2010 maps right now that are still pretty accurate, will be installing 2012 ones soon just for good measure. This has NOTHING to do with the unit or firmware. The GPS is a software package on it's own!

[DkN]

At this stage it is most likely the case that Audiosources will be switching navigation software. Can't say too much yet but rest assured it will be a worthy alternative. There will still be the standard 3 year map updates for those who have Primo, but it is as DSGVW says, the navigation software is a package of its own. If you have other software you prefer you could even load any GPS software of your choice as long as they are compatible with WinCE.

Also I understand it's an unfortunate situation that those that helped make the unit better would now need to buy new units to see further improvements, but rest assured you were really being listened to. In fact it's because you were being listened to that this is even happening, without the support and feedback the ANS units wouldn't be where they are now. As I said regrettably the units are now at a stage where hardware limits have been reached and a new platform is necessary to move forward. It is a unique situation considering the current platform was only first released in March this year in China. However this does show how incredibly fast Audiosources works to improve their product and there are some real talents over there. I don't think this situation is one that is likely to repeat itself though since the new platform will have plenty enough juice so they can truly focus on the software.

[schultp]

Will the OBD function still be released for the ANS-510/810 platform? This was one of the features I was looking forward to and swayed me to order the ANS-810 a few days ago. It would be a shame if the firmware development stopped and this function never is released.

As for the remainder of the functions I am content with the features of the ANS-810. Yes, the timing is poor but I am going to focus on the fact that the unit has the feature set I need and I don't foresee the need to jump every year to the next "great thing". But, I was expecting the OBD functionality that has been hinted at for a while now. Any updates on this aspect would be appreciated.

Paul.

[DkN]

I explained that on the last page, yes the OBD function is still coming to the current platform, I expect that to be released before the new unit comes out.

[stampsosu]

Hey DKN,
I know they are working on the ipod connectivity, would this include being able to see my playlists, scroll by artist and the album cover art?

Also, you mentioned that you were going release the final firmware to everyone - when I get it, this will be my first update as i just got my ANS610. Would i have needed to update all previous firmwares before installing the final one?

Just a few more things: The radio function does not show the song name playing nor the name of the radio station, only the station channels. Is this a firmware issue that will be fixed in the final one? My Jetta came with the original aux-in function and this unit does not work with my aux in. Is it possible that i received the incorrect harness to connect to my factor canbus? Would running a 3.5mm aux-in to rca cable to the back of the unit connecting it to the aux cables fix this?

Besides for the buggy USB music functions and iphone connectivity functions, i'm really pleased with the unit.

[Aaric]

It's unfortunate being a recent purchaser of a soon to be deprecated product. However, if they actually do fix the ipod interface, implement the diagnostics, and add steering wheel track controls to bluetooth, I'd be content.

[schultp]

I explained that on the last page, yes the OBD function is still coming to the current platform, I expect that to be released before the new unit comes out.

Sorry, somehow that didn't register when I scanned through your announcement/post from the previous page. Thanks, very nice info!

Paul.

[whiskywallah]

I'm in 2 minds about this announcement.

The consumer side of me is disappointed. I've had the unit for 9 months and was one of the first to buy. The unit even now is at 'late beta' stage of development (Except the GPS which is excellent). As one of the people who have pushed hard for upgrades it's a shame to see that come to an end. iPod functionality is close to finished as I understand it and from what I've seen might end up being OK, but that still leaves USB and SD browsing left in the dark ages.

Radio RDS is like something out if the 80's.
Bluetooth is rudimentary both from a phone and audio streaming perspective.
Using the 'Hardware can't cope' excuse doesn't wash. Unit was released in 2012 not 2002!

Having said all that I'm in SW industry and understand that Free Updates can't go on forever. I had assumed, though, that we be having this discussion in 12 months time!

Overall, for the money, it's not bad value, and if they finish off enough things before pulling the development plug I shall be satisfied.