Tag Archives: PACKTALK

Accessories, Cardo Systems, Communications, Industry News, Latest News

Cardo Systems breaks down barriers with new software update

Cardo Systems breaks down barriers with new software update, giving Cardo users the freedom to connect seamlessly with all major Bluetooth communicators.

Cardo Systems, the global market leader in wireless communication systems for powersports riders, today introduced a new software update to its cross-industry Bluetooth connectivity.  With this latest software release, connecting with a non-Cardo Bluetooth unit is now as seamless and fluid as connecting via Bluetooth to another Cardo communicator. The power to bridge the gap between communicator brands via Bluetooth connectivity is yet another game-changing innovation from Cardo as it continues to pursue industry-wide Bluetooth standardization and bring more riders together.

Inspired by the launch of Open Bluetooth Intercom (OBi), Cardo commissioned an independent international study* that proved consumers desired a simple and intuitive process to communicate with their fellow riders who didn’t have the same brand of communicator. Despite Cardo Systems already offering class-leading cross-brand connectivity via the OBi standard, and championing its leading Mesh technology, the developers at Cardo took the challenge of including even more brands head-on.

“In a recent survey conducted with motorcycle communicator users across the globe, Intercom connectivity with other brands was one of the most popular suggestions from respondents when asked what could be done to improve their communication experience,” said Dan Emodi, Chief Marketing Officer, Cardo Systems. “We’ve always strived to offer our own customers more and with this update we’re able to offer more independence for our users and friends using devices from other major brands, giving much greater choice, freedom and flexibility.”

With a simple Over-The-Air software update for all current 2023 Cardo devices (excluding the PACKTALK SLIM), from the top-of-the-range PACKTALK EDGE to the Spirit, the new update provides simple connectivity via Bluetooth with current-generation devices from Sena, Midland and Uclear. All users will now have the same experience as using the same intercom brand without the usual hassle of complex pairing and the frustrations such as losing a phone connection or sacrificing the ability to receive phone calls and navigation instructions. The only feature that is not supported in this cross-brand connection is music sharing, just as it’s not supported between two different generations of Cardo products.

Cardo users can simply download the latest software version from their Cardo Connect app, Over-The-Air and with no need for a cable, to activate the functionality. There is no need to press any specific button combination to pair or connect.  As new versions and upgrades are made available, a pop-up in the Cardo Connect App will appear automatically.

For more Cardo Systems news check out our dedicated page Cardo Systems News

or head to the official Cardo Systems website cardosystems.com/

Cardo Systems, Communications, Industry News, Latest News

‘Hey Cardo, ask my partner to marry me…’

Cardo’s most recent customer survey revealed that over 250 Cardo users had proposed over their Cardo – just 20 years ago, this wouldn’t have been possible, as motorcycle communication devices didn’t exist except for hand gestures and shouting at each other at traffic lights.

Cardo launched the world’s first motorcycle Bluetooth-based wireless intercom headset and since then has been responsible for most of the industry’s innovations including the first mesh-powered intercom, the first premium sound system by JBL, and the first voice-powered communications system.

With over 18,000* respondents from 114 different countries, a close look at the data showed there were a lot of similarities between the global #CardoFam…

Nearly 60% of respondents rode wearing a full-face helmet with flip-up and modular options being the second most popular types of helmets.

Just over 44% of riders had adventure and touring models and the majority rode with 3-15 riders. Leisure was the purpose of riding for those surveyed, passion and freedom were cited as the top choices as to the reason behind their miles -and for over half of those surveyed, riding helps to improve their mental state.

When taking a riding holiday, 45% of riders choose to do more than 476 miles/766 km – no wonder that other than their Cardo, snacks, and drinks were the thing they didn’t leave the house without!

Over half of the respondents had used a communicator for three years or more and over 70% had chosen Cardo as their first-ever device.

Be sure to listen out for Cardo users singing along while riding – nearly half of those surveyed use their device to listen to music with 17% humming along, 44% singing occasionally, and 17% admitting they ‘perform’.

With answers from around the globe and riders all experiencing differing weather conditions, it was no surprise that the three most loved features of Cardo devices are: Sound by JBL, Waterproof, and Dynamic Mesh Connectivity.

When it comes to talking, ‘Family’ and ‘Spouse’ attributed to over half of the calls made by users with ‘Friends’ making up just under 30%.

Another thing that the #CardoFam was in agreement about was that nine-time Grand Prix motorcycle racing World Champion Valentino Rossi was their favourite celebrity biking role model, followed by six-time MotoGP World Champion Marc Marquez and ‘King of Cool’ Steve McQueen in second and third place respectively.

Head to the Cardo Systems social media channels to learn more about the #CardoFam or www.cardosystems.com to find the Cardo device that suits you.

*18780 respondents

For more Cardo Systems news check out our dedicated page Cardo Systems News

or head to the official Cardo Systems website cardosystems.com/

Cardo Systems, Communications, Industry News, Latest News

Cardo Systems Acquires Riser, a Motorcycle Navigation App

Cardo Systems Acquires Riser, a Motorcycle Navigation App, to Expand its Reach and Offer Comprehensive Solutions to Riders.

Cardo Systems, a leading provider of wireless communication systems for motorcycle riders, Outdoor and Off-Road Vehicles (ORV) has announced today its acquisition of Riser, based in Vienna Austria, a popular motorcycle navigation app with an array of social features.

This acquisition will bring together the strengths of both companies, providing riders with a comprehensive range of communication, social and navigation solutions.

Riser and Cardo will be working collaboratively. Initially, the app will operate as it currently does, and gradually, the app will develop into an app represented by both companies.

The acquisition will allow Cardo to expand its reach beyond traditional communication systems and offer riders an all-in-one communication, navigation, and social networking solution.

“We are excited to join forces with Riser, which has created an innovative motorcycle app that enhances the riding experience,” said Cardo Systems CEO Alon Lumbroso. “This acquisition will enable us to provide our customers with an even wider range of solutions, including navigation, community, and safety, that meet their evolving needs.”

Dominik Koffu, founder of Riser, added, “We are thrilled to become part of the Cardo family and combine our strengths to provide riders with a comprehensive set of tools that make their riding experience safer and more enjoyable. We look forward to continuing to develop and innovate our technology under the Cardo umbrella.”

KTM CEO, Stefan Pierer, expressed, “I am delighted to see Riser find a new home with Cardo, and we have every confidence that together they will achieve great success.”

The acquisition of Riser is part of Cardo’s ongoing strategy to commit to providing riders with the most advanced and user-friendly communication and navigation systems. Cardo is dedicated to meeting the needs of riders of all levels, from casual enthusiasts to professional riders, and this acquisition will help us achieve this goal.

For more Cardo Systems news check out our dedicated page Cardo Systems News

or head to the official Cardo Systems website cardosystems.com/

Accessories, Cardo Systems, Communications, Industry News, KTM, Latest News, Manufacturers

KTM and Cardo systems expand cooperation to include KTM PACKTALK EDGE

KTM and Cardo systems expand cooperation to include KTM PACKTALK EDGE in KTM’s Motohall experience.

Fans of KTM will now be able to add clear communication on KTM’s RIDE ORANGE EXPERIENCE, an extraordinary demo ride from the KTM Motohall. Participants will be offered the chance to hire a KTM PACKTALK EDGE for their KTM ride, adding another dimension to an already fantastic day.

A result of the strategic partnership between Cardo Systems and KTM, the KTM PACKTALK EDGE is compact, light and perfectly syncs with the advanced tech, power and thrills that riders feel through their handlebars.

The top-of-the-range mobile communication and connectivity device means riders can chat over intercom with up to 15 other riders in the group, follow GPS instructions, make and receive calls and listen to music through high quality JBL speakers.

Waterproof, dust and mud proof, the KTM PACKTALK Edge comes with a unique magnetic ‘Air Mount’ which offers a universal fit of the slimline and antenna-free unit to all helmets, making it as easy to handle as any KTM model.

On top of this, an 8km range (1.6km rider to rider), noise-cancelling microphone, 13-hour battery life, fast charging as standard can be paired with KTMconnect to enhance the ride.

The RIDE ORANGE EXPERIENCE is an extraordinary experience from the KTM Motohall. It starts with a visit to the KTM Motohall exhibition, before participants start their ride out with their selected KTM machines from the KTM Motohall motorcycle rental store. Riders are also given recommendations of the best routes from and back to the KTM Motohall. Prices start from €99 per person and can be booked from Get Your Tickets – KTM Motohall (ktm-motohall.com). The RIDE ORANGE EXPERIENCE will start again in spring 2023 and will also offer the chance to hire a KTM PACKTALK EDGE.

To purchase, the KTM PACKTALK EDGE has a MSRP of €409,95 and is available at Cardo retailers or alternatively, it can be ordered directly from www.cardosystems.com.

Image credits: Please check image captions for correct image credit – Cardo/KTM/Emanuel Tschann/Sebas Romero/Felix Steinreiber Productions

About Cardo Systems

Cardo Systems is a leading developer and supplier of wireless communication and entertainment systems for Powersports and Outdoor enthusiasts. Originally focused on motorcycle Bluetooth devices – a market it invented in 2004 – Cardo has been pioneering the vast majority of innovations for groups in motion. These innovations include; The world’s first Mesh-based intercom, the first premium sound, and the first natural Voice operation, to name but a few. Cardo’s mission is to empower riders, adventure seekers, and professionals with cutting-edge communication, safety, and sound. The company’s products are available in over 100 countries through an expanding network of dealers and directly online.

For more Cardo Systems news check out our dedicated page Cardo Systems News

or head to the official Cardo Systems website cardosystems.com/

Cardo Systems, Communications, Industry News, Latest News

Open Bluetooth Intercom (OBI) supported on all current* Cardo Systems devices

Following the release of a series of software updates, the innovative Open Bluetooth intercom (OBI) functionality is now available across all 2023 devices* from Cardo Systems – including the top-of-the-range PACKTALK EDGE to the Spirit.

A new cross-industry standard, Open Bluetooth intercom, allows supported units from Cardo, Midland and UClear to communicate seamlessly with none of the usual frustrations users experience when using ‘universally connected’ cross-branded devices.

Instead of the usual convoluted pairing process with ‘universally connected units’, OBI will be activated automatically when paired to a supported device – no further toggling is required. Even for non-OBI units, the devices can be paired in Bluetooth model as any other Cardo unit – no more having to choose between pairing to a non-Cardo unit or maintaining connection with a phone for calls or listening to music.

Pioneering the wireless Bluetooth communication market for motorcyclists in 2003, this technological roll-out cements Cardo’s commitment to provide motorcyclists with the best solutions to communicate while riding.

Users can easily update their Cardo device to activate the OBI functionality through the Cardo Connect App – and there’s no need for a cable with Over-The-Air software updates. The new software pop-up in the Cardo Connect App will appear automatically whenever a new version is available.

For more information on the full range from Cardo Systems, visit www.cardosystems.com

*PACKTALK EDGE, PACKTALK NEO, FREECOM 4X, FREECOM 2X, Spirit HD and Spirit. 

For more Cardo Systems news check out our dedicated page Cardo Systems News

or head to the official Cardo Systems website cardosystems.com/

Cardo Systems, Communications, Industry News, Latest News

Cardo unveils the all-new PACKTALK generation

Cardo unveils the all-new PACKTALK generation – The PACKTALK EDGE. Greatness. Reborn.

Following extensive research and development, and a complete overhaul of the entire component make-up of the PACKTALK series, Cardo Systems is proud to announce a new generation of the world’s best motorcycle communications system, the all-new PACKTALK EDGE.

Key highlights include:

  • New slim modern design with no external antenna
  • New magnetic Air Mount for effortless and secure attachment of unit to helmet
  • Second-generation Dynamic Mesh Communication with faster and easier pairing process and wide-band intercom
  • Most advanced Bluetooth 5.2 Technology with “Live Intercom” support and improved universal connectivity
  • Upgraded Natural Voice engine, enhanced JBL Sound, improved noise-cancelling microphone
  • Additional new features include over-the-air software updates and fast charging via USB-C. 

The new small, slimline, antenna-free unit, has been completely redesigned, boasting a whole host of new features as well as benefiting from all the user-favourite attributes of the previous generation, to make the world’s best motorcycle communications device, even better.

In 2015, Cardo Systems launched the world’s first motorcycle communicator to go beyond Bluetooth, with its introduction of Dynamic Mesh Communication (DMC). The state-of-the-art technology means the devices function with a self-adjusting network that not only automatically maintains a connection between up to 15 riders, but allows them to seamlessly join, leave and rejoin at a distance of up to eight kilometres (five miles). The PACKTALK EDGE takes this technology one step further and boasts second-generation DMC connectivity with benefits including: an unparalleled deep wideband sound quality, a simpler and faster grouping process in DMC mode, faster pairing in Bluetooth mode, and Live Intercom Bluetooth support.

Helping cement its ‘edge’ over its predecessors, the PACKTALK EDGE has enhanced sound thanks to redesigned JBL speakers and three new sound profiles, attaches to any helmet using a new magnetic cradle for ease of use, and boasts universal fitment and has an improved noise-cancelling microphone. It also houses the most advanced Bluetooth 5.2 chip on the market for universal connectivity. The upgraded Natural Voice Operation engine also means that riders can continue to keep their eyes on the road, hands on the bars and activate their device by simply saying “Hey, Cardo.”

Other features include 13-hours battery life, USB-C and fast charging as standard – a quick 20-minute charge gives users two hours of ride time and 1.5-2 hours offers a full charge.

Over-the-air software updates via the Cardo Connect App, mean that no cables or Wi-Fi adapters are required to ensure the PACKTALK EDGE device is loaded with the latest firmware.

Alon Lumbroso, Chief Executive Officer, Cardo Systems, comments: “The PACKTALK EDGE is the best communication device we have ever developed. With the ultimate audio performance in the industry, a novel Air Mount for rapid and secure attachment, and beautiful sleek, and clean design. The PACKTALK EDGE is a fantastic flagship to our extensive range of communicators. This latest offering is testament to Cardo’s three pillars – quality, purposeful innovation and user-first. Innovation is in our company DNA and we’re proud to translate that into a product for fellow motorcyclists.” 

The new PACKTALK EDGE has an MSRP of  $389.95/€389,95 – single and $699.95/€699,95 – duo and will be available from retailers in late April or alternatively, it can be ordered directly from www.cardosystems.com now. The PACKTALK BOLD will continue to be offered alongside the PACKTALK EDGE and available worldwide.

For more Cardo Systems news check out our dedicated page Cardo Systems News

or head to the official Cardo Systems website cardosystems.com/