LASER has unveiled a new in-car touchscreen display, delivering the full Apple CarPlay and Android Auto experience for cars that don’t have these systems inbuilt.

The Navig8r Portable Wireless Touchscreen offers convenience, safety, and functionality by enabling access to messages, phone calls, directions, music tracks and more, all hands-free. Using a high quality In-Plane-Switching LCD panel, the 7-inch screen offers improved colour accuracy and consistency, as well as a wider viewing angle.

While most new cars support CarPlay or Android Auto, the Navig8r touchscreen is designed for second hand car purchasers and anyone with a model over a few years old, providing them with a smoother in-car driving experience.

Powered by USB, the touchscreen is easy to install and to use, commands can be issued via voice using Siri or Google Assistant. Integrated apps include maps (including Apple, Google, Waze and more), music (Apple, Spotify, Amazon and more), messaging (including WhatsApp), calls, podcasts, calendars and AirPlay or Miracast for screen mirroring.

A wireless connection from a smartphone means it can be left in a pocket or bag, and once connected, the pairing is saved so the phone is automatically re-connected every time. There’s also a variety of installation options including an extendable windscreen mount, adaptable for all windscreen types.

LASER Corporation managing director and head of the Navig8r brand, Chris Lau said, “With road trip season just around the corner, and rising demand around in-car smartphone integration, the role of portable options is becoming incredibly popular. We see this as a hands-free extension of your phone, great for gifting and ideal to make any ‘dumb’ car a smart one. It also continues our ongoing commitment to deliver such a compelling option that is well under $200.”

The Navig8r 7-inch Portable Wireless Touchscreen is available at Harvey Norman for RRP $169. The Navig8r universal reverse camera is available as an add-on accessory for RRP $29.95, suitable for any monitor device accepting a 3.5mm phono plug. Once installed, it offers a clear view of what’s behind the car with HD 720p resolution, night vision and an IP67 weatherproof rating.