Many 2019 Acura Mdx owners are curious about the possibility of a wireless CarPlay update. Rumors have circulated online, particularly in social media groups, suggesting that Acura might roll out an over-the-air (OTA) update to enable wireless CarPlay for this model year. However, official confirmation from Acura remains elusive, leaving many wondering if this feature is truly on the horizon.
The good news for 2019 MDX owners is that the vehicle’s infotainment system is technically equipped to support wireless CarPlay. According to tech experts, the necessary hardware, including Bluetooth for initial setup and 5GHz WiFi for the primary CarPlay connection, is present in the 2019-2021 MDX models. This means that from a purely technical standpoint, Acura could indeed activate wireless CarPlay via a software update. The question then becomes: will they?
Unfortunately, historical precedent suggests caution. The original post mentions a similar situation with the 2018-2020 Honda Accord. These vehicles also possessed the hardware for wireless CarPlay, and while Honda even explored customer interest in a paid upgrade, it never materialized. This pattern raises concerns that Acura might follow a similar path, opting not to release an official wireless CarPlay update for the 2019 MDX.
For those eager to enjoy wireless CarPlay in their 2019 Acura MDX without waiting for an official update that may never arrive, aftermarket wireless adapters offer a viable solution. Devices like the Carplay2air and Carlinkit adapters have gained popularity for their ability to bridge the gap. The original Carplay2air and the initial version of Carlinkit 3.0 are essentially the same in terms of hardware and firmware, both utilizing a wired USB connection.
A newer iteration, the Carlinkit 3.0 with a USB-C connector, presents a slightly different hardware configuration. While it can run the same firmware as its predecessor, some users report potentially faster boot times. However, firmware modifications on this USB-C version seem to be more complex, carrying a risk of bricking the device. Choosing between these adapters often comes down to personal preference and desired features, with the USB-C Carlinkit 3.0 being a slightly more modern option.
In conclusion, while the 2019 Acura MDX has the hardware capabilities for wireless CarPlay, an official OTA update from Acura remains uncertain. For owners seeking immediate wireless connectivity, exploring aftermarket adapters like Carlinkit offers a practical alternative to achieve a wireless CarPlay experience in their vehicles.
