MBUX 3.3: Mercedes-Benz brings Audible and Amazon Music to the car

Mercedes-Benz is updating its third-generation MBUX system, aiming to improve infotainment in the areas of entertainment, productivity, and comfort. Among the new features are spatial audio and video formats, as well as a new calendar. The update to MBUX 3.3 is now being rolled out worldwide as an over-the-air (OTA) update for vehicles with the third MBUX generation, including the GLC, the C-Class, the CLE, and the E-Class. According to Mercedes-Benz's announcement, the software update can be installed in over 700,000 vehicles worldwide.

Dolby Atmos Sound and New Apps

With the update, drivers and passengers can consume content in Dolby Atmos audio quality via selected services. These include the newly integrated apps Amazon Music, Audible, and Tidal. The Amazon apps are now directly accessible via the infotainment system.

Additionally, "selected titles" from Ridevu by Sony Pictures will now be provided in IMAX Enhanced format with immersive DTS:X audio sound. According to Mercedes-Benz, this is intended to enable a cinema experience in the car. Also new is a Gamepack, which brings a curated selection of retro mini-games to MBUX-3 cars. The games can be played during breaks or when parked, but not while driving.

Calendar and Soon Meetings

For daily planning, MBUX 3.3 brings a new calendar app to the vehicle, replacing the previous in-car calendar. According to Mercedes, the new app allows for "faster updates with minimal effort." Furthermore, integration with productivity apps is designed to be simpler. A single login connects MBUX Notes, Calendar, and soon Meetings.

The new calendar is also said to be capable of optimizing daily workflows. It automatically calculates the best route to the locations of upcoming appointments. Additionally, Microsoft Teams calls can now be initiated directly through the app, while voice control also allows drivers to "request a briefing or an overview of their day."

Mercedes-Benz has also revised the advanced voice control. It allows users to adjust additional vehicle settings via the MBUX voice assistant. "This further strengthens the intuitive, hands-free interaction between driver and vehicle," Mercedes writes.

(afl)