Sony has a new Android Auto head unit - its first, actually - the catchily-named XAV-AX100. The main draw of the device seems to be the sound quality, with four "55-watt Dynamic Reality Amp 2" amplifiers and Sony's EXTRA BASS low-boost circuitry supposedly overcoming engine noise to deliver crystal clear sound.

On the Android side, Sony says the XAV-AX100 has Android Auto 2 installed. If you're not overly sure what that is, you're not alone. Maybe it's the things Google announced at I/O this year for Auto? That would include things like OK Google hotwording and OEM apps, but possibly the most important announcement, WiFi projection mode - which means the Android Auto connection from your phone to the head unit is wireless - is not mentioned in the blog post Sony published today.

Sony also says the XAV-AX100 has a 'clear and responsive touchscreen,' while the 'improved visibility' helps on long drives. The head unit, which also supports Apple CarPlay, will be available in North America in November. It will cost $499 when it goes on sale - a lot cheaper than Pioneer's units that were announced earlier this year.

Source: Sony blog