Packtalk Custom

User guide

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Software update

Version: 2.2

Release date: July 11, 2023

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Release notes

Release notes 2.2

Love Bluetooth brands that don’t talk to each other? Neither do we! That’s why the following release is one we are extremely proud of. On top of your current OBi connectivity, your device can now also seamlessly communicate with the latest generation Senas, directly via the standard Bluetooth intercom.

Forget the hassle of using Bluetooth devices of different brands. The experience will be as seamless as connecting and communicating between two devices of the same brand and won’t require universal pairing on either side. Just pair, connect, and go.
Eat the cake and keep it whole! No more sacrificing the mobile connection channels, you will keep the ability to receive phone calls, and navigation instructions and listen to music or FM on either side (parallel audio is based on the support of specific models).
Please note that, just as music sharing is not supported between two different generations of Cardo products, it won’t be possible to share music between different brands.

Click here to watch the tutorial.

Release Notes 2.1

Enjoy unnecessary wind noise? Neither are we! This release corrects a bug that resulted in more apparent wind noise breaking through the microphone.

Critical bug fix for smartphones running Android 13 (Tiramisu)
If your Android 13 smartphone has issues connecting your Cardo Communicator with the Cardo Connect mobile app, this release is for you! The 3.1 release fixes these connection issues, but in order to download it to your phone, you’ll need to choose one of the following two methods to update your unit.

Method 1 – via a non-Android 13 phone

Pair your unit to an iPhone or a non-Android 13 phone
Download and install Cardo Connect mobile app
Activate the app and follow the on-screen instructions

Method 2- via a laptop/desktop connection

connect a USB type C cable (such as the one that was supplied in the box) to a desktop or a laptop running Windows or macOS
Click here and follow the instructions

Release Notes 2.0

We’ve made significant improvements to the software’s functionality and resolved any outstanding bugs for a better user experience.

Mobile applications

Cardo Connect

Helpful Tips

Intercom Recording feature

What is this feature for?

The intercom recording feature allows you to easily record your voice and Intercom conversation, save it to your Phone, and share it with just about anyone.

Which Cardo units support this feature?

PACKTALK EDGE (including all derivatives), PACKTALK NEO and PACKTALK CUSTOM (with Platinum Package)

Is the feature available with any version of the Cardo Connect App?

The feature is available with Cardo Connect App version 7.0 or higher.

Can I record intercom conversations with any other DMC unit?

You can record any intercom conversation in DMC mode. With a DMC intercom conversation using Bluetooth intercom bridge with any Bluetooth unit (Cardo or non-Cardo), it will be recorded as well.

Can I record intercom conversations in Bluetooth mode?

No, Intercom conversations can be recorded only on DMC mode.

Can I record my voice?

Yes, you can record your voice regardless of the intercom mode. Note, though, that when recording your voice,
music or phone calls interrupt your recording.

Can I pause and resume recording?

Yes, you can do that, this option is available in the Cardo Connect App.

What happens if I receive a phone call during a recording?

In this scenario the recording will be paused but will be resumed automatically after the call if the App is in the foreground. You can always resume the recording manually via the Cardo Connect App.

How do I save the recording?

When you’re done recording, you need to press the “Save” button, otherwise your recording will not be saved.

Can the recording be shared?

Absolutely – a recording saved on the phone can be shared with any external App that supports file sharing such as WhatsApp, Telegram, Dropbox and the like.

Can I remove the “Voice Recording” button from the home screen if I don’t need it?

Yes, you can remove the Voice Recording button from the home screen or bring it back at any time in the settings menu.

Watch the tutorial for more information.

Can I subscribe at any moment?

You absolutely can. Use Cardo Connect App to purchase and manage your package at any moment.

Are all features available for usage from the moment of purchase?

Yes, they absolutely are. Once you chose a package and completed the payment process, you will receive a notification indicating that your unit has been updated with the features you chose and a tutorial on how to use your new features.

How do I pay for my subscription?

You can pay either via the App store or via Google Play Store. Packages automatically renew at the end of the subscription period.

Does the PACKTALK CUSTOM connect to other Cardo units (Packtalk, Freecom, Spirit)?

PACKTALK CUSTOM is fully compatible with all Cardo DMC units. If you subscribe to the Gold or the Platinum package, you can also connect to all Cardo Bluetooth units using either regular Bluetooth or Live Intercom (Freecom X).

Will my package renew automatically?

Packages automatically renew at the end of the subscription period.

Frequently asked questions

Do I need to register in the Cardo Connect App before subscribing to a Pay-Per-Feature package?

Yes. To complete the purchase of a new package you need to sign in/sign up for the Cardo Connect App

Can I cancel my package?

You can cancel your package at any time via your App Store or Google Play Store settings. You can also go to "My Package" in the Cardo Connect App Settings. In "Manage Package", choose to cancel your package and you will be redirected to your store settings to complete the cancellation. You should cancel your subscription at least one day before its renewal date. You will not receive a refund for the remainder of your current subscription. The package features will remain available until the next payment date.

I see a LOCK icon on the Cardo Connect App screen, next to some features. What does it mean?

The LOCK icon indicates that your current active package does not support these specific features. To enjoy these features, you need to upgrade your package.

I lost my unit and got another one instead. How can I update my package on the new unit?

Please contact our Customer Support at https://www.cardosystems.com/support-form/ to help you deactivate the package on your lost unit, and update it on your new unit.

I have two units. Can I unlock a package for each unit, from the same account?

That is not possible. One package can be active only for one unit, the other unit can be upgraded via another phone account.

Can I connect my GPS, my TFT, or a 2nd phone to my PACKTALK CUSTOM?

Yes, but only one device at a time. If you want to connect two devices in parallel (for example TFT and a smartphone), you will first need to subscribe to either the Gold or Platinum packages, to unlock the 2nd device pairing feature.

Do I need to use the app after purchasing the Package?

Yes. To keep your package unlocked, you will be asked every once in a while to connect your unit to it, for synchronizing. You will receive an audio notification on your device when sync is required. In addition, we recommend using the app to manage your package and get all software updates

How do I get my unit updated with a purchased package?

Once you chose a package and completed the payment process, you will receive a notification saying "Your Package is Unlocked". Your unit has been updated with the features you chose.

Can I transfer a subscribed package from one device to another?

No, the package assigns to one device and cannot be transferred to another.

How do I get started?

To start using your PACKTALK CUSTOM, you first need to activate your unit with Cardo Connect App.

Can I pause my package during non-riding seasons?

You can't pause but you can cancel your package at any time, and subscribe again at any time.

How can I modify my Package or the subscription plan?

You can modify your package at any time in the Settings of the Cardo Connect App. Choose "My package" and manage your subscription plan, change, or cancel Package. If you upgrade your unit, your new package will be active immediately and the remainder of your previous subscription will be refunded. If you downgrade, the current package will be active until the end of the subscription period, and the new package will start just after.

Will my package renew automatically?

Packages automatically renew at the end of the subscription period.

How can I see my active package?

To see your active package, go to Settings and choose "My Package".

Are all features available for usage from the moment of purchase?

Can I subscribe at any moment?

You absolutely can. Use Cardo Connect App to purchase and manage your package at any moment.

How do I pay for my subscription?

You can pay either via the App store or via Google Play Store. Packages automatically renew at the end of the subscription period.

Can I have a trial period?

Yes, the Platinum package is open for a free one month of use according to the terms appearing in the Cardo Connect App. Simply select "free trial" in the subscription screen. You can cancel it at any moment during this period. After the free trial period has ended, you will be charged automatically by month, or opt to cancel or choose a different package at any time.

How can I purchase a package?

To upgrade your PACKTALK CUSTOM with a package of features, go to "Unlock All features" " in the Settings menu, choose your favorite package, select the subscription period, and proceed to payment via the App store or Google Play Store. Your unit is immediately upgraded, you can start riding!

What are the Subscription periods?

We offer two Subscription periods: Monthly and Yearly.

What do I get in each feature Package?

Each feature package consists of a different set of extra functionalities. The Silver Package contains: Music Sharing, 3 Audio Profiles, and Speed Dial. Gold Package takes the Silver package and adds on top of it: Universal Bluetooth Intercom and 2nd Channel Connection. With our top-on-the-line Platinum Package you unlock all the best Packtalk Custom has to offer with additional Natural Voice Operation and Eco Mode.

Can I use other PACKTALK accessories with PACKTALK CUSTOM?

PACKTALK CUSTOM is compatible with the PACKTALK NEO accessories: 2nd helmet kit Sound by JBL, 2nd helmet kit 40mm HD. They both have a unique clickable cradle that is not compatible with other Cardo products. Non-cradle accessories, such as microphones and speakers are all fully compatible with PACKTALK CUSTOM.

What warranty does Cardo offer?

Cardo offers a 2-year warranty for PACKTALK CUSTOM, starting from the date of purchase. Our warranty covers product failures as detailed in the warranty document. Please keep your proof of purchase to reclaim your warranty.

What are the advantages of USB-C

A USB-C port is more robust, easy to plug, and fits with any standard USB-C cable. It also enables Fast Charging (2 hours of talk time after 20 minutes of charging).

Does the PACKTALK CUSTOM connect to other Cardo units (Packtalk, Freecom, Spirit)?

How can I update my unit?

No need for a cable, Wi-Fi dongles, or a laptop. The software update is done Over the Air, directly from your mobile phone. Just download the Cardo Connect app to your smartphone, go to Settings, select your unit, and then click on the latest available software update. Updating your Cardo unit with the latest software will ensure your communicator is free from bugs and contains all the latest features and functionality. We recommend updating your unit before using it for the first time and then keep on checking for new releases periodically.

What is the difference between PACKTALK CUSTOM and PACKTALK EDGE?

Unlike the top-of-the-line EDGE, PACKTALK CUSTOM comes only with a basic subset of essential features, which can be upgraded and customized with additional features such as Bluetooth Intercom, Natural Voice operation, music sharing, second device connection, Eco-Mode, and others, by subscribing to monthly or yearly packages. Furthermore, Packtalk Custom replaces the EDGE's magnetic Air Mount, high-end JBL sound system, and 3-year extended warranty, with a more standard clickable cradle, 40mm HD speakers, and a 2-year warranty. In addition, charging while riding is possible only on PACKTALK EDGE.

What is the difference between PACKTALK CUSTOM and FREECOM 4X?

"FREECOM 4X is a fully featured Bluetooth communicator, whereas PACKTALK CUSTOM is a Mesh communicator with a basic subset of essential features. PACKTALK Custom can be upgraded and customized with additional features such as Bluetooth Intercom, Natural Voice operation, music sharing, second device connection, Eco-Mode, and others, by subscribing to monthly or yearly packages. Unlike FREECOM 4X which offers Sound by JBL, PACKTALK CUSTOM comes with Cardo’s standard 40mm HD speakers."

What is the difference between PACKTALK CUSTOM and PACKTALK NEO?

Unlike the more expensive PACKTALK Neo, PACKTALK CUSTOM comes only with a basic subset of essential features and replaces NEO's JBL speakers and sound system with a less expensive set of Cardo's standard 40mm HD speakers. Unlike the NEO, PACKTALK Custom can be upgraded and customized with additional features such as Bluetooth Intercom, Natural Voice operation, music sharing, second device connection, Eco-Mode, and others, by subscribing to monthly or yearly packages. When fully upgraded, the Packtalk Custom is similar in functionality to the NEO, minus the JBL sound system and speakers.

Can I share music with any other Cardo unit?

You can share music with any Cardo unit from the same generation: PACKTALK EDGE, PACKTALK NEO, PACKTALK CUSTOM, FREECOM 4X, FREECOM 2X, Spirit HD, and Spirit. Your unit will not be able to share music with products from previous generations (PACKTALK Bold/Black/Slim/Ducati/Louis, PACKTALK, SMARTPACK, SMARTH, FREECOM 2/4/1+/2+/4+, G-line, Q-line, SRC-line, SHO-1).

How will it connect with Sena units?

With the Gold or Platinum Package, your device can seamlessly communicate with the latest generations of Sena, directly via the standard Bluetooth intercom.

Pairing and communicating is the same as between two devices of the same brand. No need for universal pairing on either side. Follow the manuals’ instructions and start standard intercom pairing on both devices. Wait for the devices to pair. The intercom connection starts automatically after the pairing.
You will keep the ability to receive phone calls, navigation instructions and listen to music or FM on either side (parallel audio is based on the support of specific models).
Just as music sharing is not supported between two different generations of Cardo products, it won’t be possible to share music between different brands.

Click here to watch the tutorial.

Will it pair with any other Bluetooth intercom?

With the Gold or Platinum Package, yes, Cardo intercom systems come with universal connectivity. It will pair with any other Bluetooth communication system by Cardo or by other leading brands.

With Midland, Uclear and Sena latest generations communicators, the Bluetooth pairing will be identical as pairing to another Cardo unit.

In order to pair your unit with a non-Cardo headset please do the following:

Start intercom pairing on your unit (please refer to your pocket guide or user manual on how to do it)
On the other unit start universal pairing(if supported) or mobile phone pairing(if universal pairing is not supported)
Wait For the pairing to complete

How can I record intercom conversations?

With Cardo Connect App (version 7.0 or higher), you can easily record your voice and Intercom conversation, save it to their Phone, and share it with just about anyone. This feature is available for PACKTALK EDGE (including all derivatives), PACKTALK NEO and PACKTALK CUSTOM (with Platinum Package). You can record any intercom conversation in DMC mode or using Bluetooth intercom bridge with any Bluetooth unit (Cardo or non-Cardo), it will be recorded as well. Watch the tutorial for more information.