One of the biggest frustrations about Intercom Headsets has always been the lack of cohesive cross-brand communication. Ride with one group of friends and they may be on Sena headsets, Ride with another and they are on Cardo. Traditionally, getting the two different systems to work together is a complicated process and functionality is quite limited. With Cardo System’s latest software update, the company further increases the level of integration between the two brands to make the connection as seamless and automatic as possible.

Cardo’s new firmware integrates the top two mesh network intercom technologies — Cardo DMC and Sena Mesh — into one cohesive group where riders can all communicate with one another. The new update takes the existing Bluetooth bridge connection between the two systems and turns it into a “Live Connection” that can automatically and seamlessly reconnect anytime the connection drops. 

Two designated headsets (one from Cardo and one from Sena) form a Bluetooth bridge between groups of riders on two different mesh networks, allowing everyone to communicate on a single channel. Only the two headsets forming the bridge are able to search for each other and auto-reconnect though. Bridged units must also maintain close proximity to one other (90 meters or 100 yards) to stay connected. As long as these bridged riders stay in communication, all other riders in their respective groups can utilize the full available connectivity of their particular models.

“[The new] release refines the communication between Cardo Systems and non-Cardo devices to ensure a robust and reliable connection that automatically reconnects,” states Dan Emodi, Chief Marketing Officer at Cardo Systems. “Our Live Bluetooth Bridge feature not only simplifies connectivity but also exemplifies our dedication to setting the standard for communication technology within the powersports community and the industry at large.”

Current 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. Once downloaded, riders can follow the steps below to bridge Cardo DMC and Sena’s Mesh groups: 

• Set up Cardo DMC and Sena Mesh separately.
• Sena unit must have functioning Bluetooth intercom (Mesh only units are NOT compatible)
• Any Cardo 2nd generation DMC is compatible (PACKTALK EDGE and NEO)
• On the Cardo side, switch the unit to Bluetooth mode using the Cardo Connect app and initiate Bluetooth intercom pairing. Initiate Bluetooth intercom pairing on the Sena side and wait a few seconds for the units to connect. Return the Cardo Unit to DMC mode via the app.
• Open the Bluetooth bridge on the Cardo side by tapping the intercom button 3 times.
• Riding group will choose two units (one from Cardo side and one from Sena side) to act as bridging units. These two units will need to be riding in general proximity to each other, up to 90 meters or 100 yards apart.
• Go ride. If the connection drops during the ride for whatever reason, the Cardo bridge unit will actively seek to reconnect solely to the Sena bridge unit for a full five minutes before timing out.

The move toward more-integrated systems allow riders to stay with their preferred brand, yet still have the ability to join the discussion on occasion when meeting up with friends on a different brand. It also helps avoid feeling locked into a specific brand if you’re looking to make a switch. While this update doesn’t make the connectivity between the two top intercom brands 100% seamless, it’s another welcome step in that direction. For more details on Cardo’s range of headset intercom systems, visit the Cardo website.