OTC Debut Mid-Range Scan Tool based on Android Platform

OTC’s next-generation scan tool, the Encore, made its debut at the 2013 Automotive Aftermarket Products Expo (AAPEX) held in Las Vegas, November 5 – 7. The Encore is OTC’s first integrated scan tool for Android for the North American market, capitalizing on the operating system’s speed, ease of use and functionality.

“Relying on more than 30 years of best-in-class OEM coverage and the Android OS, Encore is poised to be the technician’s favorite tool,” said Jim Fish, Bosch vice-president of global diagnostics. “We’ve made diagnostics easier, faster and more efficient for the technician while maintaining OTC’s commitment to data, customer support and vehicle compatibility.”  

Utilizing Wi-Fi and Bluetooth wireless capability, technicians can spend more time diagnosing and fixing vehicles without having to leave the vehicle to search for additional information.

Behind Encore’s 7-inch capacitive, smartphone-like touch screen is a custom Graphical User Interface (GUI) with a boot time of 15 seconds or less. In addition to an Android operating system, Encore boasts:

–          Full scan functionality, including OEM Domestic, Asian and European bidirectional controls and enhanced data

–          AutoDetect™ to automatically detect and alert the technician of on-tool or web-based repair information including Identifix Direct-Hit

–          Access to popular technician forums via Wi-Fi connections

–          More than 70 embedded training videos

–          Access to the Google Play store to download apps, music and more for a personalized diagnostics tool

–          60-day free trial of Direct Hit

“The Encore helps the technician scan, identify and fix a vehicle to beat the flat rate, increasing productivity and profits,” added Fish.

The Encore will be available in December 2013 through OTC’s traditional distribution channel partners. Positioned as a Mid Range Scan Tool, Encore offers more vehicle coverage and features than competitive products in its class. The Encore is assembled in the U.S.A. in OTC’s North American manufacturing facility based in Owatonna, Minnesota. Some components are globally sourced.

Encore will also be the first OTC scan tool to benefit from Bosch’s acquisition of Service Solutions U.S. LLC in December 2012, providing additional, deeper European and Asian (import) vehicle coverage than previously available. The Encore will receive periodic coverage updates from OTC, similar to the Genisys Touch, as additional vehicle coverage information is available.