Wednesday, January 05, 2011 -- Audiovox Corp. announced that it has begun shipping its new CarLink smartphone interface module. This system lets a smartphone communicate with an automobile from virtually anywhere, the company stated. The new CarLink system enables users to control remote start and keyless entry features with two-way notification and comes equipped with a “find” feature for locating automobiles in crowded parking areas. The system connects through the Audiovox Telematics Data port found on over 90 percent of Audiovox-branded security systems, including Code Alarm, Prestige and Pursuit, the company said.

“CarLink is our first smartphone interface that builds upon the heritage that has made us a market leader in remote start systems for years, providing both OEMs and the aftermarket with products and features that are in high demand by consumers,” stated Tom Malone, president of Audiovox Electronics Corporation. “Starting your vehicle, unlocking your doors or popping the trunk from virtually any distance, or finding your car in a large garage after a sporting event or a trip to the mall, is now as easy as the click of a button or the tap of your finger.”

The CarLink app is downloadable to any iPhone, Android or Blackberry device and has virtually unlimited operating range. In addition to working on Audiovox-related products, the CarLink system can be accessed on any competitive remote-start product, provided the system has a negative external start trigger input so as to not lose certain functionalities, Audivox said.

Used with an Audiovox system, CarLink will provide 2-way confirmation displayed on a smartphone along with full status reports with real-time updates and notification alerts. With the CarLink app, a user can also add as many vehicles as he or she wants to an account and navigate between each vehicle within the preference settings on a device.

CarLink systems are now available at retail, online and through dealers, for $249.00, which includes the first year of service with unlimited usage in the United States. Every year thereafter, service is expected to be $29.99, according to the company. Subscribers activate a CarLink system after the hardware is installed and tested and will receive a link to download the software directly to a mobile device. Even if users do not have a smartphone app, CarLink can still be accessed via the Web, by logging on to www.voxcarlink.com from any browser.

“Much of our R&D has been focused on assimilating wireless technologies into our product lines and leveraging the use of mobile devices, such as smartphones, to provide consumers with products they not only want, but need,” Malone said. “I believe 2011 and beyond will be no different, as we have several upgrades and new innovations planned for the mass market, as well as customized solutions for many of our OEM partners.”