Tech News and Commentary

Dave and the team discuss the Beetl backyard cleaning robot, Amazon delivering half of their own products, Xbox Series X details, Windows XP and Putin, Android’s new messaging app, and more.

Lisa in Carey, North Carolina listens on NewsRadio 680 WPTF and asked: “I would like to know how to have a clear Bluetooth type system in my car. I have a 2011 Honda Accord but it doesn’t have Bluetooth. I’d like to have that to be able to safely answer phone calls in my car.”

Lisa, the easiest way to add bluetooth to your car is to use an adapter that will plug into a 12v port and to your radio and will include a microphone.

Those kits are very, very easy to install, plug in the cables and you’re all set, but they tend to have very poor microphones and users are rarely happy with them in the long run.

Still, they have the advantage of being cheap so if you’re looking for a solution that may not be of the best quality but that will not cost you a lot, this will do it.

If you’re budget is a little big larger, say $100, you will probably be better off replacing your radio. This route is more involved, especially if you want to install microphones.

Replacing the head unit is easy enough, but installing microphones around your car (which can greatly increase the sound quality) will involve dealing with pulling panels to run the cables which will take some work and some time and may be something you should consider paying a professional to do.

The advantages of choosing this way to get bluetooth is that it’s generally better quality and more natural connection since the radio will know to interrupt whatever you’re listening to and switch to the phone conversation instead of forcing you to switch to AUX and answer the phone separately.

Overall, it will be your better option to add bluetooth to your car that works as you’d like it to work but it will cost you a little more.

When you participate on the show – anytime 24/7 – and we HEAR you with any consumer tech question, comment, help for another listener, tech rage or just share your favorite App these days … you could win prizes.

Brilliant: All-In-One Smart Home Controls

MicroNovelty: TROPO hand-held, battery-powered air pump for inflatables

Puro Sound Labs: Wireless Noise-Canceling headphones for kids

RapidX: X4 Home Multipurpose USB charging station

Killer Concepts: Piggy Pro Phone Stands – Razor thin stand that sticks to the back of any phone

All CALLERS — using the AUDIO option on our Free App or 1-800-899-INTO(4686)  – automatically qualify to win prizes.

Audio archived for at least 6 months