Porsche reveals its next-gen infotainment

Porsche has released pictures and full details of its sixth-generation touch-screen infotainment system that's claimed to ramp up connectivity and add natural-speak voice control.

The all-new system, called Porsche Communication Management (PCM) 6.0, runs an Android Auto operating system and is said to introduce a raft of online features, a new-look menu design and greater connectivity with the car-maker's Porsche Connect smartphone app.

First introduced in the Porsche Taycan, the new system will be shortly introduced on the 911, Cayenne and Panamera, while fresh over-the-air updates are set to heavily update the original Taycan system.

Key to the improvements of PCM 6.0 is more powerful hardware that allows the system to operate far quicker than before, while the sat-nav can now offer alternative routes in the event of an accident, road closure or just heavy traffic.

The system can even indicate to the driver how much traffic is in each lane on the highway, while new software can calculate an accurate destination arrival time if the car is towing a trailer or caravan based on their lower permitted speed.

For the first time, the German sports car brand says its PCM 6.0 can harness the power of its Porsche Risk Radar that uses its car assistance technology, plus swarm data from nearby cars to notify the driver of any approaching hazards.

The system can also update if there's been any new speed limit changes on the road ahead, even before the physical signs have been spotted by the car you're driving.

Other changes include the introduction of natural-speak voice control, which negates repeating a list of specific commands. Examples given include simply saying "I need fuel" to divert the sat-nav to the nearest servo, to saying "I'm cold" to automatically crank up the heating by two degrees.

Natural speak can control the navigation, seat massage, climate system and even the interior ambient lighting.

The same system also allows you to browse the internet more easily via the Google Assistant.

Finally, the menu design has been simplified and is quicker to respond.

New benefits include greater connectivity with the smartphone app that allows the driver to check fuel or battery charge and remotely unlock the vehicle and/or operate the climate control and heated seats.

Apple Music will also be available on PCM 6.0, while drivers will be able to personalise and drag and drop apps they regularly rely on within the home screen.

Perhaps more in line with Porsche's motorsport heritage, the PCM 6.0 also comes with a virtual race coach that features a database of more than 300 international tracks.

Claimed to provide instructions and racing lines, the new system also includes a lap timer and the ability to link the system with GoPro cameras.

Thanks to its over-the-air update facility, Porsche will also introduce further tech in the future that includes an adaptive ambient noise system that could include different soundtracks or soundscapes that could be matched to the current route or driving style.

The adaptive music system, called Soundtrack My Life, could also curate soundtracks based on the driver mood, behaviour pattern or time of day.