It is also possible to adopt navigation destinations from images in the photo gallery of the smartphone, provided that the image was stored with GPS coordinates. A Google search integrated in the app also makes it possible to use destinations from Google search results. In addition, the smartphone's calendar can be displayed via the PCM. A calendar entry for which an address is stored may be set as a navigation destination. Another component of the Porsche Connect App is Music Services. It lets users play back music from various music streaming providers via the PCM's music player. In some cases, it is necessary to install apps from the provider on the smartphone beforehand and to register with the providers.

Very easy integration of smartphones

The new PCM offers several ways to connect a smartphone: by cable connection, Bluetooth or, for the first time, via a Wi-Fi connection. A SIM card is needed to use a data connection via Wi-Fi. The SIM card of the smartphone can be used for this. As an alternative, a card reader beneath the PCM display is available for an external SIM card.

All users of an Apple iPhone, version 5 or higher, can also use their phone apps while driving thanks to Apple CarPlay. To use CarPlay, the iPhone must be connected to the PCM via a USB cable. Then apps such as the phone, news and music apps can be used safely during the drive using either PCM controls or Apple's Siri voice control. Messages, for example, will then be input or read exclusively via Siri.

To ensure essentially interference-free data reception in the vehicle, the PCM integrates a smartphone tray in the centre console for optimised mobile phone reception. When there is an active connection, the smartphone's antenna signal is transmitted to the vehicle's outside antenna, and this significantly enhances connection quality.

Touchscreen with individual display

Practically all configurable vehicle functions can be set via the PCM, e.g. to create a trip log, and users can select individual parameters for the optional Sport Chrono Package and evaluate its data. The new MyScreen function lets users individually configure up to three different screen layouts. Entertainment features include analogue and digital radio (DAB) with 15 pre-set stations, a CD/DVD drive and a jukebox with SSD hard drive that can store around 3000 songs. Two SD card readers, a USB interface in the glove compartment and an AUX port give the driver other input sources for the PCM.

In combination with the new PCM, along with the standard sound system Porsche is also offering two other audio systems, each with twelve loudspeakers. The Bose system has a output power of 445 watts, and the high-end Burmester system has a power output of 821 watts.

Notes: The services real-time traffic information, Google Street View® and Google Earth® are provided free-of-charge for a time period of at least 12 months, and extended subscriptions can be purchased at www.porsche.com/connect. Use of these services and of wireless internet access require a data-capable SIM card, for which a separate individual contract must be purchased from a mobile radio provider.