Audio System - AAC Files Not Recognized
91 Audio System Does Not Recognize Or Play AAC Formatted Files91 09 30
2020399/1
April 14, 2009
Vehicle Information
Condition
The customer may report that audio files in AAC format are not recognized by the Audi Infotainment system.
Technical Background
Advanced Audio Coding (AAC) is a lossy compression method for encoding audio files that is supported by the Audi Infotainment system. File types with extensions .aac, .mp4, .m4a, .m4b, .m4p, and .3gp may have been encoded using AAC, or they may have been encoded using other methods that the Audi Infotainment system does not support. The following table lists the supported and unsupported formats:
Production Solution
Not applicable.
Service
1. If the customer is using a CD, MMC (Multi Media card) or SD card, verify that the audio system is capable of playing AAC files. Audi Media Interface (AMI), hard drive (HDD), and the CD/DVD player of the MMI Generation III system are always capable of playing AAC files. If the device is capable of playing AAC audio files, advise the customer to create audio files in a format described as Playable in the Technical Background.
TIP:
Some Owner's Manuals are describing the file extension .aac as compatible. This is inaccurate and will be corrected in the model year 2010 edition.
2. Create some AAC audio files with iTunes(R) or Nero(R) to demonstrate to the customer that the system is working to the manufacturers specifications.
If iTunes is used to create AAC audio files, make sure to select AAC encoder and not Apple(R) lossless encoder. The Import Settings menu can be found under Edit >> Preferences in iTunes(R).
Warranty
This TSB is informational only and not applicable to any Audi warranty.
Additional Information
All parts and service references provided in this TSB are subject to change and/or removal. Always check with your Parts Department and service manuals for the latest information.