January 31st, 2019 -- Belmont, Calif. GROM Audio (https://gromaudio.com) just announced the availability of VLine VL2 with Android 8.1. VLine VL2 is an aftermarket infotainment system that integrates with OEM car stereos and displays. It offers easy access to the latest in-car driving assistant applications, including maps by Google® and Waze®, integrated music streaming services, such as Spotify® and Pandora®, voice commands, and other relevant apps--all accessible through the vehicle's factory infotainment panel.

VLine is designed to address increasing need of the modern drivers in on-road connectivity and advanced driving assistant systems. According to the multiple studies, technology is the deciding factor in car purchases. GROM Audio bridges the gap between brand new vehicles and the cars that are already on the road, by offering VLine - a seamless infotainment system for factory stereos and displays.

VLine (https://gromaudio.com/vline/) is an Android based infotainment and car computing system. Previously running on Android 5.1, VLine offered stable performance and high level of reliability. Starting February 1st 2019, VLine VL2 will ship with the robust Android 8.1 Oreo. The upgrade for existing VLine VL2 customers will be available at a later date.

Android 8.1 was designed to improve on the shortcomings of 8.0. Latency and network loads are reduced because of Google's new Neural Networks API, allowing applications to employ hardware acceleration. Third-party developers are now able to use advanced machine learning algorithms; as a result, users will have access to smarter applications, which employ these updates. Additionally, applications are restricted to one push notification chime per second that can be muted entirely.

"The real value for VLine owners is in how they can now download a greater variety of apps," a GROM Audio representative said, "It's an exciting time for VLine owners to explore new apps on Play Market."

VLine offers a "tablet-like" experience, where users are able to install many driving assistant and entertainment apps, to run directly on their car stereo displays. Users no longer need to rely on their mobile device for any of those features. According to VLine owners, the most used driving assistant services include GPS turn-by-turn navigation by Google®, Waze®, Here® maps, voice assistant, and music streaming apps. In addition, the drivers connect vehicle's health monitoring software such as Torque, to stay a top of their vehicles condition and be proactive with the repairs, as well as reverse and front facing cameras.

Using VLine infotainment system with factory stereos guarantees a safer driving experience. By integrating with vehicle's original displays and controls, VLine relies on the safety standards that were designed by the car's manufacturer. Vline's own graphic interface features easy to view intuitive layout with large, bold graphics and fonts. Build-in voice assistant allows to start navigation or search for the music, without taking the hands from the wheels, or eyes from the road.

Those interested to learn more can visit GROM Audio VLine webpage for more details:
https://www.gromaudio.com/vline

Link to store:
https://gromaudio.com/store/vline

Demo videos of VLine:
https://gromaudio.com/vline/video.html

GROM is a Silicon Valley-based automotive electronics company with a focus on infotainment, connected car and audio integration solutions. With a passion for technology and drive for innovation, GROM Audio continues to bring to consumers trending in-car and smart city solutions. Through their long-standing commitment to quality products at affordable prices, GROM Audio continues to grow as a leading producer of connected car solutions, both hardware and software. More information is available at (https://gromaudio.com

Belmont, CA - April 10, 2018 - GROM Audio (https://gromaudio.com) announced the next generation model to their VLine Infotainment System. VLine is an aftermarket infotainment system and video interface that provides drivers ease of access to today’s latest in-car technology, such as advanced maps, music, voice control and other apps via existing OEM stereos.

VLine (https://gromaudio.com/vline/) is an Android based car infotainment system that seamlessly integrates to the factory stereo and navigation screen of select car makes. Once the system is installed into the vehicle, the driver gets the access to the latest mobile technology such as Google and Waze Maps, music apps, and voice control, using vehicles original stereo and integrated controls.

GROM Audio expands their VLine portfolio with the next generation model VLine VL2. VLine VL2 provides quicker speeds and load times, Android 7.2 Nougat operating system, and support for newer Lexus, Nissan and Infiniti vehicles of up to 2017. Upgraded hardware includes 3 times faster MCU and 3GB RAM on board, and 5GHz Wi-Fi with best in class Broadcom chipset.

VLine is a stand-alone unit that requires Wi-Fi connection via hot spot (either mobile hot spot tethering or mobile data plan). Unique to other aftermarket car stereo solutions, VLine does not replace factory stereo. With simple rewiring and without compromising factory OEM, VLine takes over car stereo environment for a full integrative experience.

Now supporting Lexus, Nissan and Infiniti car stereos with navigational touch screen of up to 2017, VLine VL2 aftermarket infotainment system provides access to the latest apps available on Google Play store while ensuring the safety and convenience for drivers while on the road.

VLine offers a wide range of music apps and plugins as well as map apps with integrated car controls. With large and bold graphics in an unified environment, music app plugins allow for easy navigation in each plugin. Users can search via voice, gain access to playlists, favorites, moods and others all in one beautiful and intuitive interface. Music plugins include Spotify, Web Radio, Pandora and Google Music. VLine also allows full access to map apps as available in Google Play store. Users can choose between popular maps including Google, Waze, Sygic, and HereWeGo.

Drivers utilize existing touchscreen and steering wheel controls for seamless interactivity. In addition, voice activation is made available for maps and music. Playing music via VLine has never been easier as user gains full access to music information and cover art. Users can in turn quickly switch between apps with one touch.

"We are happy to bring the latest technology to the VLine," GROM's spokesperson said regarding to VLine VL2 pre-release. "Robust hardware specs will ensure smooth operation and user experience, while providing safety and convenience with voice recognition engine and embedded stereo controls."

Early bird preorder is priced at $465.95 until April 15, 2018.  Afterward, pre-order will continue from April 16 until May 15, 2018 at $519.95.  Retail value at $599.95. GROM plans to ship the product after May 25th 2018. The company offers a 30-day money back guarantee and 18-month limited warranty for VLine.

Those interested to learn more can visit GROM Audio VLine webpage for more details: 
https://www.gromaudio.com/vline

Link to store: 
https://gromaudio.com/store/vline

Videos on VLine: 
https://gromaudio.com/vline/video.html

GROM is a Silicon Valley-based car audio company with a history of developing, designing, and manufacturing aftermarket car audio interfaces to update obsolete stereo systems since 2008. With a passion for technology and drive for innovation, GROM Audio continues to bring to consumers trending in-car solutions for their audio needs. Through their long-standing commitment to quality products at affordable prices, GROM Audio continues to grow as a leading producer of car audio equipment. More information is available at https://gromaudio.com

6-9-2016 -- GROM Audio just released two new car audio integration kits for select 2008 VW vehicles, along with later RNS 310, RNS 315, RNS 510, RCD 510 stereo models.

These new kits will now allow VW drivers to enhance their existing factory car stereos by seamlessly integrating with Android phones, iPod/iPhones, and other USB mass storage devices. In addition, they provide Bluetooth and aux-in 3.5mm connections. They offer wireless music streaming and HD Radio. The kits also offer head unit connectivity via add-ons that are sold separately.

Upon installation, users will have the ability to connect many mobile devices to their car stereo through a cable connection or wirelessly via Bluetooth. These easy-to-install car kits are designed to provide a range of device integration options, a diversity of features available through phone-to-car connectivity, and enhanced safety through hands-free communication.

GROM Bluetooth car kits allow for hands free phone calls (HFP) and wireless audio streaming (A2DP) with integrated AVRCP controls. This allows drivers to use their mobile device without taking their hands off the wheel or their eyes off the road. The kits additionally offer complete integration to factory car stereos through steering wheel buttons and car stereo controls.

Smartphones can be integrated via a USB port for advanced music browsing and controls, in addition to a wireless Bluetooth connection. For advanced Android phone integration, owners will have to download the DashLinQ app, which is available free from GROM on Google Play Android market.

These GROM car kits are installed behind the dashboard, to preserve a car’s factory look and conceal any visible modifications. GROM car kits are known to provide high quality sound that does not require additional amplification.

GROM Audio car kits for VW 2008 and later with RNS 310, RNS 315, RNS 510, RCD 510 stereo models are available for purchase at the company web store with the starting price of $129.99 for the IPD4 model, and $145.99 for the USB3 model. More detailed compatibility is available on the company website.

GROM Audio will host a Meet Up event for the Silicon Valley Automotive Open Source Meet Up group on Thursday, March 27, 7-9 p.m.

This open event is available for anyone interested in learning more about QNX, OS and Qt development from a influential industry leader. Kerry Johnson, Senior Automotive Product Manager at QNX Software Systems, will be speaking to attendees about QNX Real Time Operating System (RTOS) and Qt for automotive development.

QNX software is used in many of the auto industry's leading brands including, GM, Onstar, Toyota and Audi. As smartphones continue to integrate into all aspects of modern technology, this Meet Up seeks to connect developers, car companies and hobbyists alike to better understand automotive projects utilizing or built with open source tools. From safety to fuel-efficiency to embedding applications for entertainment purposes, QNX software allows implementation of applications that help create the future of cars.

Through presentations, demonstrations and implementation of In-Vehicle-Infotainment (IVI), attendees can better understand the latest auto technology transforming today's vehicles, while also connecting with fellow industry people. GROM Audio will showcase its current after-market car kits as well as its newest open source infotainment systems.

"We are excited to host an event with QNX, and we welcome anyone, interested in the news about automotive infotainment technology," says Leigh Gibbs, GROM Audio spokesperson.

The event will be held at GROM Audio's Belmont office. People interested in attending can RSVP at http://www.meetup.com/Silicon-Valley-Automotive-Open-Source/events/167165262/.

More information is available at the company website http://www.gromaudio.com.

May 23, 2017 -- GROM Audio announces the latest release of its VLine - a unique aftermarket infotainment system upgrade - for select Toyota vehicles. 

VLine provides drivers ease of access to today’s latest in-car technology, such as advanced maps, music, voice search and other apps. Bringing safety and convenience while on the road, VLine is an instant upgrade to any factory stereo while maintaining original factory look.

First ever on the market, this system was released back in September 2016 to select Lexus vehicle owners.  From rigorous BETA testing to having VLine installed in Lexus vehicles, GROM Audio has expanded their product line to include Toyota, Nissan and Infiniti.

VLine has a base price of $499.95.  Additional features have also been made available to users, including mobile Hot Spot and wireless keyboard. (link to: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TG-NjD3PrwM)

VLineis a stand-alone unit that does not require any phone connectivity, except for an Internet data plan. Unique to other aftermarket car stereo solutions, VLine does not replace factory radio or any other parts. All existing functions of car stereo system FM, CD or factory Bluetooth will continue to work throughout the use of VLine.

Connected to the factory car stereo with navigation touchscreen, VLine aftermarket infotainment system provides video interface to display latest apps while ensuring the safety and convenience for drivers while on the road. VLine provides driver with integrated navigation apps including Waze and Google, music apps including Spotify, GMusic, Web Radio and more, Bluetooth A2DP music streaming, and access to other Google Play apps.

Drivers can also use existing touchscreen and steering wheel controls for seamless interactivity. In addition, voice activation is made available for maps and music. Playing music via VLine has never been easier as user gains full access to music information and cover art. Users can in turn quickly switch between apps with one touch.

"This is an extremely exciting time for us at GROM," GROM's spokesperson has remarked regarding to VLine, "After spending years developing car kits that bring mobile technology to car stereo system, we have expanded our offering to bring even more digital innovations to our customers."

Compatible Toyota models include: 2012-2015 Prius, 2012-2015 Prius C, 2012-2015 Prius V, 2014 xD, 2014 iQ, 2015-2017 Yaris, 2014-2016 Venza, 2013-2015 Avalon, 2012-2014 Camry, 2012-2014 Highlander, and 2011-2014 4Runner.

GROM Audio offers a 30-day money back guarantee and 18-month limited warranty for VLine. Please visit GROM Audio's webpage for more details: http://gromaudio.com/store/vline/grom-vl1-toy6.html