Seamless connectivity between cellphones and vehicles can sometimes be frustrating. Still, when it’s executed correctly, it can mean drivers spend more time with their eyes on the road than on their phones. With the 2022 Ram Truck lineup getting the latest infotainment software known as Uconnect 5, that will be the case with faster operating speeds, more customization, and content at the tip of the customer’s fingertips. The new infotainment system will be found on the 2022 Ram 1500, Ram 2500 HD and Ram 3500 HD pickup trucks. Major additions include wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, as well as Amazon Alexa software.
Image via Mattheus Pach, Muscle Cars & Trucks.## More Customization
Being able to customize the layout of the Uconnect 5 home screen makes for a familiar feel. In addition, the system can be customized to give drivers quick access to information in the cluster screen, head-up display, or center screen. For example, if a Ram 1500 is equipped with the Off-road package, customers can directly link to the Off-Road pages on the center screen. Alternatively, if someone’s towing in hot temperatures in their Ram 2500 HD or Ram 3500 HD, the driver can view customized gauges to monitor the truck’s temperatures.
If multiple people use the vehicle, worry not about them messing up your interface. Uconnect 5 can store up to five different user profiles. The system also stores vehicle preferences to the profile, seating position, mirror placement, and temperature preferences can be switched with ease.
Ram with Uconnect 5 Heads Up Display HUD.## Better Connectivity
As for Smartphone connectivity, wireless AppleCarPlay and wireless Android Auto, along with wireless charging, give users a seamless experience. The system can also manage input from two devices and prioritize one over the other for different functions.
With the new Telematics Box Module (TBM), servicing and updating the Ram is exceptionally easy. The system works in harmony with Vehicle Health Alerts, Vehicle Health Reports, and the Ram mobile app. Capping the connectivity improvements are over-the-air update capabilities, which will automatically load improved software to the vehicle. UConnect 5 can also be used to schedule vehicle maintenance with dealers.
Improved Voice Recognition, Thanks To Amazon Alexa
Uconnect 5 brings Amazon Alexa directly into the Ram 1500, Ram 2500 and Ram 3500. Occupants can ask Alexa to play music, podcasts and audiobooks, along with crafting a to-do list, and check real-time information such as the weather. Alexa’s responses use the vehicle’s audio system, allowing all passengers to interact.
The listening ability has also been improved, so background noise shouldn’t determine whether or not the system can hear you. Finally, like the convenience of wake-up words found on cell phones, users can say “Hey Ram” instead of pressing the available voice recognition button.
Image via Mattheys Pach, Muscle Cars & Trucks
