FCA US announced the new features in its Uconnect systems for Chrysler, Jeep, Dodge and RAM trucks. New 2016 Uconnect systems have better performance, voice recognition, navigation and new noise cancellation for clearer handsfree phone calls. Unlike GM, the 2016 models will not have Android Auto or Apple CarPlay, yet. However there is quite of bit of functionality in Uconnect similar to CarPlay and Android Auto.
UConnect 2016 upgrades include the new Drag and Drop menu bar, Siri Eyes Free, Do Not Disturb, SiriusXM Tune Start and access to the user manual on the 8.4-inch touchscreen. The themes of the systems have been updated to match the brands and designed to be more intuitive.
Drag and Drop
UConnect users can personalize their touchscreen controls to fit their lifestyle and have one-button access to the features and services they value most. Drivers now can drag their favorite feature or service icon from the apps menu and move them to the Uconnect system’s main menu bar. For instance, apps/controls such as SiriusXM Travel Link to heated or cooled seats or Yelp Search can be added to the home screen
Siri Eyes Free
Using the voice button on the steering wheel and compatible with an Apple iPhone 4s or later, with Siri Eyes Free, driver can talk to send text messages, play music, set reminders, place phone calls and access turn-by-turn directions.
.
Do Not Disturb
Drivers who want to shut off phone calls or text messages while driving can activate the new “Do Not Disturb” and “Reply with Text Message” feature. The features are enabled with a push of button or via voice command, then the Do Not Disturb icon will route all incoming mobile calls to voicemail and suppress text messages.
SiriusXM Tune Start
A new SiriusXM feature starts songs from the beginning when switching between pre-set satellite radio channels. The driver get to hear the whole song.
On-Screen Manuals
Found on the 2016 Dodge Charger, Dodge Challenger and Chrysler 300, the Vehicle User Guide allows drivers to view their owner’s manual via the 8.4-inch touchscreen for a quick reference guide. The Uconnect and Powertrain portion are connected to the car and will only show VIN and model specific information. The content also can be updated over-the-air so the owner information will remain current.
The new Drag and Drop menu bar, Siri Eyes Free, Do Not Disturb and SiriusXM Tune Start features are available in these models with a 8.4″ touchscreen 2016 Chrysler 200 and 300, Dodge Challenger, Charger, Durango and Viper, Jeep Cherokee and Grand Cherokee, Ram 1500, Heavy Duty and Chassis Cab
I bought a 2016 Cherokee only to find out that it won’t have CarPlay. It won’t be available until 2017 model and won’t be available for older vehicles. The phone system is terrible and to top that off, it doesn’t announce the caller. Older ones like the 2011 have that capability as does my $80 Bluetooth. I called Vehicle care and they said that feature isn’t avaiable. Are you kidding me? I now understand why people buy foreign vehicles instead of American. I had a Hyundai for a rental and the phone/radio system was great. The one in my Cherokee sucks. My fault for not asking some real basic questions for vehicles these days, like what works with the phone/radio?
Like Stephen said above, they are behind when it comes to technology. Their SUV’s from 5 years ago have better interactive phone software than they do today. They go backwards when others are advancing their technology. I rented a Hyundai and my brother has a Kia. They have a much better interactive system in tge vehicles that cost Thousands less. If I had known before what I do after a week of owning it, I never would have bought a Jeep. Wish I had tried out the basic systems like how the phone works. One would think of an older version of their vehicle had the function, they still would? Normal assumption. Not Jeeps. Chrysler only cares about selling vehicles and not the customer experience. I never have been a Mopar fan in the past, and you can bet I won’t ever be. I truly wish I had never bought this vehicle. Buyers be ware !!
The CarPlay announcements are very confusing.
Depending on the what is installed in your Jeep, you may be able to install an aftermarket infotainment system with CarPlay and Android Auto. Typically cars with a standar radio, may be upgraded. However hybrid vehicles and high-end luxury cars are often more difficult to install a new system. I saw a 1967 Mustang with a new 7″ touchscreen installed.
We agree when you buy a car, bring your iPhone or smartphone with you and make sure that the voice, music, streaming and other functions you want work….
FYI Hyundai Sonata owners are still waiting for a CarPlay update.
why can’t i update my 2015 dodge ram radio system to the new connect system software plus you need to add the arabic fonts apple have it on there iPhone and my benz have it
you need to update your technology to the latest sad to say you guys are way behind
the other companies wake up chrysler you don’t need the competition
To me this is typical. Chrysler isn’t thinking about existing customers and improving their experience because they already have our money! Please create in-car systems that can easily be upgraded AND make it a point to bring innovation to older systems!
So wait, this is hardware and not firmware driven? Why can’t firmware updates to 2015 or any of the 8.4 uconnect systems work? Not cool….
I am glad that I did my homework before purchasing the Grand Cherokee. I agree with Kevin, not having CarPlay, and not being able to even upgrade to it later, is a deal breaker.
Not having Apple Carplay or the ability to update the firmware to include it later is a deal breaker. I’m leaning toward a Tahoe or Taureg for 2016 because of CapPlay. If the Jeep Grand Cherokee had it, I’d buy the Jeep as my first pick
Will the additional features listed above be available to be installed on my 2015 Jeep (vin # 1C4RJEBG8FC668163) and if so when? Will there be a update listed on the “drive uConnect” web site?
I too am interested in my 2015 Chrysler 300 being able to have the 2016 features installed in a software upgrade.