In a landmark announcement, Cardo, a leading name in the field of communication devices for riders, has introduced the groundbreaking Packtalk Custom.
This cutting-edge communicator is now officially available at all Cardo Authorised Dealers worldwide, starting from September 18, 2023, marking a significant milestone in the realm of motorcycle communication.
The retail price for a single unit of the Cardo Packtalk Custom has been set at an affordable RM999, making it an accessible choice for riders seeking high-quality communication solutions.
The Packtalk Custom is poised to redefine communication for motorcyclists, combining top-tier features with affordability. Powered by the second generation of Cardo’s Dynamic Mesh Communication technology, this device boasts lightning-fast pairing capabilities, enabling seamless communication for groups of up to 15 riders at an impressive range of up to 1.6 kilometers.
Furthermore, its waterproof design ensures functionality even in adverse weather conditions, while fast charging and Over-The-Air software updates enhance convenience and adaptability.
One of the standout features of the Packtalk Custom is its unique flexibility, allowing users to tailor their unit to their specific needs and preferences. This innovative approach allows riders to select from a range of feature packages, paying only for the functionalities they require. What’s more, users have the freedom to switch between different feature packages at their convenience, thanks to the intuitive interface of the Cardo Connect App.
The Packtalk Custom empowers users to create a truly personalized communication device that aligns with their individual style and budget. Below are the customizable feature packages available:
1. Silver Package (RM13.99/month or RM92.99/year)
Begin your customization journey with an enhanced audio and music experience. Select your preferred sound profile, share your favorite tunes with your passenger, and designate quick dial numbers for essential contacts such as home, family, or friends.
2. Gold Package (RM22.99/month or RM139.99/year)
The Gold package takes your communication to the next level by introducing Bluetooth support. This feature allows seamless connectivity with other Bluetooth intercom systems, regardless of the brand, and facilitates Bluetooth pillion pairing with the Mesh Intercom. Additionally, the Gold package enables the connection of a second device, such as a GPS, TFT display, or a secondary phone.
3. Platinum Package (RM32.99/month or RM184.99/year):
For those seeking the ultimate experience, the Platinum package offers Cardo’s Natural Voice Operation, a groundbreaking feature that eliminates the need for button presses. Simply say “Hey Cardo!” and issue your commands; your PACKTALK CUSTOM will take care of the rest. Moreover, the Platinum package introduces an all-new Eco Mode, extending battery life by up to 20%, ensuring uninterrupted communication during extended rides.
With the introduction of the PACKTALK CUSTOM, Cardo has ushered in a new era of personalized communication for riders, offering a range of features and pricing options that cater to diverse needs.
Cardo Fam, get ready to rev up your riding experience to a whole new level with the latest and most thrilling update from Cardo System – the Cardo Record Intercom Recording Feature.
This revolutionary addition brings a whole new dimension to your motorcycle journeys, allowing you to capture every exhilarating moment and preserve your epic conversations with ease.
The new feature is only available for the Packtalk Edge and Packtalk Neo.
The new feature designed to make your rides more memorable than ever before. Now, as you embrace the freedom of the open road, you can also create unforgettable memories that will last a lifetime. With just a tap of a button, you can record your rides in high-quality audio, ensuring that no thrilling moment is ever forgotten.
Imagine reliving that breathtaking mountain pass, the soothing coastal ride, or that adrenaline-pumping race track experience – all at the tip of your fingers. The Cardo Record feature lets you do just that, preserving the essence of your motorcycle adventures like never before.
The voice recording function also allows you to capture those memorable conversations with your riding buddies. Whether it’s sharing a good laugh, discussing life’s intricacies, or planning your next road trip, you can now save these moments and cherish them forever.
To enjoy the new feature, owners of the Cardo Packtalk Edge and Neo can simply download the latest firmware, and you’re ready to roll. Once installed, you can easily start and stop voice recordings with intuitive controls, ensuring you can focus on the road while capturing the magic.
Below is the step-by-step guide on how to operate the recording feature:
Cardo System dalam satu kenyataan mengumumkan kemas kini terbaru membolehkan unit Cardo kini boleh disambungkan kepada peranti Bluetoothjenama lain.
Perisian terbaru tersebut membolehkan peranti Cardo antaranya Packtalk Edge, Packtalk Neo dan Packtalk Spirit dihubungkan ke peranti jenama terkemuka lain seperti Sena, Midland dan Uclear.
Menurut Ketua Pegawai Pemasaran Cardo Systems, Dan Emodi, antara permintaan paling popular dikemukakan pelanggan adalah mencadangkan agar unit Cardo boleh dihubungkan kepada jenama lain.
“Dengan kemas kini terbaru ini kami boleh menawarkan kebebasan kepada pengguna untuk berkomunikasi dengan rakan-rakan yang menggunakan jenama lain.” jelasnya.
Bagi membolehkan unit Cardo disambungkan kepada peranti jenama lain, pengguna hanya perlu melakukan kemas kini (update) secara Over-The-Air bagi semua produk keluaran 2023 (kecuali Packtalk Slim). Kemas kini terbaru itu membolehkan produk Cardo disambung kepada jenama lain menerusi fungsi Bluetooth sahaja.
Namun, ciri perkongsian muzik antara jenama berbeza masih tidak disokong kemas kini terbaru ini.
Leading wireless communication systems provider, Cardo Systems, has unveiled a groundbreaking software update that allows seamless connectivity between their Bluetooth units and non-Cardo devices.
The company’s commitment to industry-wide Bluetooth standardization and bringing riders together has resulted in this game-changing innovation.
The new update was boosted by the introduction of Cardo’s Open Bluetooth Intercom.
The development of this software update was inspired by the launch of Open Bluetooth Intercom (OBi), prompting Cardo Systems to commission an independent international study. The study revealed that consumers desired a simple and intuitive process to communicate with fellow riders who use different communicator brands.
Despite Cardo Systems already offering cross-brand connectivity through the OBi standard and championing its leading Mesh technology, the company’s developers rose to the challenge of expanding compatibility with even more brands.
Dan Emodi, Chief Marketing Officer at Cardo Systems, emphasized the importance of customer feedback in driving this update.
“In a recent survey conducted with motorcycle communicator users across the globe, intercom connectivity with other brands was one of the most popular suggestions to improve their communication experience.
“With this update, we’re able to offer more independence for our users and friends using devices from other major brands, providing greater choice, freedom, and flexibility,” he said.
The software update, available via a simple Over-The-Air download, enables Bluetooth connectivity between current 2023 Cardo devices (excluding the PACKTALK SLIM) and devices from Sena, Midland, and Uclear.
Users can enjoy a seamless experience, similar to using the same intercom brand, without the usual complexities of pairing. This eliminates frustrations such as losing phone connections or sacrificing the ability to receive phone calls and navigation instructions. The only unsupported feature in this cross-brand connection is music sharing, which is also not supported between different generations of Cardo products.
To activate the functionality, Cardo users can download the latest software version directly from their Cardo Connect app with a simple Over-The-Air update—no cables required. As new versions and upgrades become available, the Cardo Connect app will automatically prompt users to install them.
Cardo Systems’ commitment to enhancing the communication experience for powersports riders sets a new standard in the industry. By enabling seamless connectivity with a wide range of communicator brands, the company is empowering riders with greater flexibility and convenience on the road.
Ducati and Cardo Systems have teamed up once again to release their latest communication device for motorcycle riders, the Ducati Communication System V3 (DCS3).
Ducati Communication System V3 is based on Cardo’s latest Packtalk Neo.
The Packtalk Neo now painted with iconic Ducati red and has a range of 1.6km.
Building on their previous collaborations, the DCS3 is essentially a red-painted version of the Cardo Packtalk Neo, which sits between the Slim and Edge models of the Packtalk range. With a range of 1.6km, the DCS3 can connect up to 15 riders, allowing for seamless communication while on the road.
In addition to connecting with other riders, the DCS3 can also connect to the user’s phone, GPS, or motorcycle dashboard via Bluetooth. With Mesh connectivity technology, the DCS3 can leave and rejoin groups automatically, without the need for user intervention.
The DCS3 has a battery life of 13 hours and takes just two hours to fully charge. For those in a rush, 20 minutes of charging can provide up to two hours of talk time. Software updates for the DCS3 can be easily downloaded and installed via USB or the Cardo Connect app.
While Ducati has not yet confirmed the price of the DCS3, the Cardo Packtalk Neo retails at €369.95 in Europe, which may provide some indication of the device’s cost. The DCS3 is already available at Ducati dealerships, although it is not yet available for purchase online.
For the record, Cardo Systems has been producing communication systems for motorcycle riders since 2004, and the Ducati Communication System V3 by Cardo is the third product to emerge from their successful partnership. With its range of features and easy-to-use design, the DCS3 is sure to be a hit among motorcycle enthusiasts looking to stay connected while on the road.
AGV has updated its popular modular helmet, the Tourmodular, for 2022.
AGV Tourmodular now meets the latest ECE22.06 standard.
integrated with DMC System developed by Cardo.
According to the company, the new and improved Tourmodular helmet now meets ECE 22.06 homologation as a result of AGV’s extreme safety manufacturing protocol developed over 75 years.
The Tourmodular features a unique combination of carbon, aramid fibre and fibreglass structure that provides solidity and lightness, allowing riders to feel comfy and less fatigue while on the road.
Meanwhile, the visor is designed for a better field of vision and to protect the face and eye. The visor is optical class 1 and is 4m thick.
Inside, the helmet features Ritmo and Shalimar fabrics that absorb moisture and sweat, while the (water-repellent) synthetic leather keeps the water out of the helmet during heavy rain.
Thanks to its aerodynamic design, the Tourmodular helmet minimises turbulence and helmet movement and offers a dynamic weight of zero at 130km/h.
Other notable features:
AGV Micro-opening system
four adjustable air-vents
exceed P/J homologation – safe and secured with the chin guard up
In addition, the AGV Tourmodular helmet is the first helmet built to be compatible with the Dynamic Mesh Communication system. Developed with Cardo, the AGV INSIDE intercom allows interaction with up to 15 riders while guaranteeing connection stability with a total distance of 6km.
The new AGV Tourmodular helmet is currently on sale in the US, starting from USD599.95 (RM2.6k).
Alatan komunikasi seperti ‘intercomm’ kini semakin popular di kalangan penunggang motosikal.
‘Intercomm’ menjadikan interaksi dengan telefon pintar lebih mudah dan jelas tanpa perlu memegang telefon untuk tujuan mendengar lagu, radio, dan sebagainya.
‘Intercomm’ juga membolehkan penunggang berkomunikasi dengan pembonceng dengan lebih mudah tanpa perlu menoleh kepala untuk bercakap di samping membolehkan penunggang berkomunikasi dengan penunggang motosikal lain sewaktu berkonvoi.
Segala fungsi ini menjadikan ‘intercomm’ sebagai antara aksesori wajib terutamanya bagi kaki ‘ride’.
Bagi memeriahkan lagi aktiviti ‘ride’ dikalangan penunggang motosikal di Malaysia, Cardo Malaysia telah melancarkan Cardo Packtalk Edge serba baharu.
Cardo Packtalk Edge merupakan alat ‘intercomm’ terbaru serta premium dan merupakan model ‘flagship’ terbaru Cardo Malaysia menggantikan Packtalk Bold.
Packtalk Edge juga menawarkan fungsi Bluetooth 5.2 terkini dan Dynamic Mesh Communication (DMC) generasi kedua.
Perbezaan ketara antara Packtalk Edge dan Packtalk Bold terdahulu adalah rekaan yang lebih kemas dan minimalis di samping ketiadaan antenna yang sebelum ini menjadi ciri utama Packtalk Bold.
Selain fungsi dinaik taraf, Cardo turut mengemas kini bahagian lekapan yang kini dikenali sebagai ‘Air Mount’.
‘Air Mount’ merupakan sistem lekapan yang menggunakan bahan magnetik.
Bahan magnetik itu memastikan Packtalk Edge mudah dipasang dan ditanggalkan dengan hanya menggunakan sebelah tangan sahaja.
Daya magnetik yang kuat itu juga memastikan Packtalk Edge dilekap dengan lebih kukuh dan stabil meskipun menunggang dalam kelajuan tinggi.
Selain itu, Packtalk Edge juga tampil dengan ciri ‘fast charging’ hasil penggunaan kabel USB Type-C. Menurut Cardo Malaysia, bateri Packtalk Edge boleh bertahan sehingga 13 jam bagi setiap cas penuh.
Pada masa sama, generasi kedua DMC itu membolehkan Edge dihubungkan antara dua hingga 15 alat pada satu masa dengan jarak mencapai hingga 1,600 meter.
Paling penting, Cardo Packtalk Edge juga dilengkapi speaker berkualiti tinggi hasil kerjasama dengan JBL.
Kami diberitahu bahawa JBL bukan sahaja terlibat dalam pembangunan perkakasan (hardware) malah turut terbabit menghasilkan bahagian perisian (software) bagi memastikan Packtalk Edge menawarkan bunyi berkualiti tinggi.
Sementara itu, orang ramai yang berminat boleh mendapatkan Cardo Packtalk Edge di pengedar rasmi dengan harga RM1,649. Setiap pembelian didatangkan dengan waranti tiga tahun.
If you are in the lookout for a top of the range motorcycle communicator, you are in luck as Cardo Malaysia has just released the new Cardo Packtalk Edge.
The Packtalk Edge is Cardo’s flagship intercom unit that sits above the Packtalk Bold.
Features Bluetooth 5.2 and 2nd-generation Dynamic Mesh Communication.
The new Cardo Packtalk Edge features significant enhancements compared to the current Packtalk Bold.
Firstly, the Edge gets a minimalist design and gone is the pop-up antenna previously available on the Bold.
Also, the Edge features a new “Air Mount” system that uses magnetic mount – instead of the catch-and-tab mount on the Bold – with secondary latches that ensures the intercom sticks like a glue.
The magnetic features not only allow riders to mount the Edge effortlessly but also easily removable by placing a single finger on the front catch allowing the unit to slips out.
Other major improvement includes a faster charging time thanks to a new UBS-Type C cable that supports fast charging. Cardo Malaysia also claimed that the unit can last around 13 hours with every (full) charge.
Meanwhile, the Packtalk Edge now features second-generation Dynamic Mesh Communication (DMC) that allows connectivity between two to 15 devices with a range of up to 1,600 meters.
What do you get from the 2nd-gen DMC?
simplified grouping
wide-band intercomm
enhanced noise filtering
faster pairing
natural voice operation
Pack in a fully waterproof case, the Packtalk Edge continues to features upgraded JBL speakers. We were informed that JBL not only works on the hardware but also the software to ensure the sound quality is top notch.
For now, the Cardo Packtalk Edge is only available as a single pack and retails for RM1,649 and comes with 3-year warranty.
New Cardo Packtalk Edge now sits above the Packtalk Bold as brand’s new flagship helmet comms unit, boasting plenty of upgrades plus a slim new antenna-less design.
A Bluetooth communicator is indispensable when riding.
The top of the lot is the Cardo Packtalk Bold.
It is full of great features, especially the JBL speakers.
We’ll start off this Cardo Packtalk Bold review by saying why a Bluetooth communicator is indispensable in motorcycling.
The Cardo Packtalk Bold is the latest and best product from the company, hence it offers lots of stuff that other manufacturers could only emulate but not surpass. We’ll touch on this later.
1. Streaming music/radio
Streaming music or radio broadcasts turns your long rides into a more entertaining affair, especially if your drone along our many highways. Certain stretches are just too mind-numbing, offering nothing but the same features over and over again.
Having your favourite songs or radio programmes piped into the helmet keeps the mundane away.
2. Ease of navigation
If you’ve got a phone or GPS in front of you, the voice prompts are sent to the communicator’s speakers. It means you don’t have to keep looking at your device in finding your route.
3. Make/receive phone calls
Got that important phone call that you can’t afford to miss while you’re riding? Having a communicator is the best way. We’ve found out about this a long time ago when we were separated from a convoy!
4. Rider to rider communication
This is important in a convoy, especially if you are one of the marshals; or the lead marshal having a communicator at the very least. The sweeper (last rider) or runner can easily call up the lead marshal or vice versa regarding the dynamics of the convoy.
5. Rider to passenger communication
This is another indispensable aspect of having a Bluetooth communicator (unless your other half and you are fighting). In one way, both of you can communicate clearly along a ride i.e. in urgent need of a toilet break. In another way, talking to your passenger can keep both of you awake during the long, dreary rides.
So how does the Cardo Packtalk Bold fit in?
1. JBL speakers(!)
Listening to music is one thing, but it becomes irritating when the speakers produce tinny sounds i.e. no bass, no clarity.
The Cardo Packtalk Bold (the “Bold” really does stand for something) is equipped with the largest speakers in the industry at 40mm. Not just that, they are by JBL, who are a part of the Harman Kardon group. You can find JBL and Harman Kardon speakers in luxury cars such as Mecedes-Benz, BMW, et al.
Hence, audio reproduction is top notch. All audio frequencies sound natural and you can hear them clearly. The speakers are loud too, so do listen to music at a volume that doesn’t impede on your senses while riding.
Additionally, the voice command feature of the Cardo Packtalk Bold allows handsfree operation while you’re riding. For example, say “Hey Cardo, music on.” A female voice seconds your command and starts the music. Say, “Hey Cardo, volume up” and the unit turns it up.
2. Receive/make phone calls
Phone conversation is uncannily clear with the unit. All you need is to say “Answer” when there’s an incoming call and the Cardo will patch you through.
But get this, I’ve asked the callers how the call sounded. They replied, “Nothing unusual.” They were surprised when I told them that am currently riding my bike at 120 km/h and talking to them.
You see, Cardo pioneered the Bluetooth phone communicator before Sony and Motorola’s became popular. But Cardo brought the technology to a higher level with their noise cancelling algorithm. Not only that the person couldn’t hear wind noises on their phones, but you too, in the helmet. The speakers emit cross frequencies to kill wind noise during your calls!
Making phone calls is also easy. The best way is to set your favourite number for speed dial in the Cardo app. Then, all you have to do is say, “Hey Cardo, speed dial.”
The unit also awaits your command to Siri (iOS) and Google. With Siri enabled, you only say, “Hi Siri….” and follow up with your command.
But what if you want to avoid phone calls? Just say, “Ignore,” and Cardo will turn off the ringtone in the speakers and let the call end by itself.
3. Rider to rider communication
This is where Cardo stands head and shoulders above the rest. While the JBL speakers are exclusive to the Packtalk Bold, other Cardo products carry the feature called Dynamic Mesh Communication (DMC).
DMC keeps up 15 riders connected via a network. Each control unit plays the role of receiver and signal enhancer.
Here’s a scenario: In a convoy, a rider or riders need to slow down and falls behind the coverage distance (1.6 kilometres). But doing so doesn’t disconnect the entire network, unlike if they are all hooked up via Bluetooth. That way, the network among the group of riders is still active and riders can still relay information to each other. The network will automatically reconnect the disconnected riders when they catch back up rather than having to go through the process of reconnecting via Bluetooth.
The lead rider can also set different groups of the DMC network. Say, one group for the marshals and another for other riders with DMC.
Cool, huh?
4. Rider to passenger communications
Remember we spoke about noise cancellation technology? Talking with your passenger is so easy with the crystal clear audio. You don’t have to slow down to hear what each of you is saying.
Other features
1. Natural voice command
Note that we said, “natural voice command” instead of “voice control.” While that sounds the same, it’s very different for Cardo because it obeys your commands in your natural voice and intonations. Which means you could have a heavily-accented English yet the unit recognizes your voice.
But the algorithm is also smart to filter out non-commands, so that you can sing to your hearts content and not prompting the unit to send your singing to others in the group.
2. IP67 water and dust proofing
This is especially important. We’ve ridden through the heaviest rains and the unit just kept on working.
3. Long lasting battery
A full charge lasts for at least two days of riding, provided that you switch it off when you stop for a break. You could also say, “Hey Cardo, battery status” and the friendly lady will announce the level to you.
Conclusion
There are many other features of the Cardo Packtalk Bold that we didn’t cover here, because it’ll probably be as long as a university dissertation if we did. Just check out the official videos on YouTube and see what the amazing things it could do to help you enjoy motorcycling even more.
If you want the best of the best, the Cardo Packtalk Bold has it all.
