With innovative technology-based products such as smartphones, smart televisions, and smartwatches, what could be next? There is a new report from the Wall Street Journal that Apple Inc. (NASDAQ:AAPL) and Google Inc (NASDAQ:GOOG) are working to bring these “smart” technologies to automobiles. Such technologies could bring music, applications, and navigation all based on their own mobile operating system and embedded into smart dashboards.
Google and Audi work together for project
Google Inc (NASDAQ:GOOG) is teaming up with Audi AG (ETR:NSU) (FRA:NSU) (OTCMKTS:AUDVF) to show their collaboration project at the upcoming Consumer Electronics Show. This new system will bring applications and entertainment in the car. Audi drivers would be able to access Android-based applications and music right on their dashboard. It’s reported that both companies are collaborating with other tech companies such as NVIDIA Corporation (NASDAQ:NVDA).
Apple’s smart dashboard with iOS systems
Apple Inc. (NASDAQ:AAPL) already has experience in this avenue. The iPhone maker previously worked with BMW, Honda Motor Co Ltd (ADR) (NYSE:HMC), Mercedes, and Daimler AG (OTCMKTS:DDAIF) (ETR:DAI) (FRA:DAI) to make smart dashboards with iOS systems. Apple Inc. (NASDAQ:AAPL) also takes it a step further by making the iPhone the central brain of the system which connects to the screen, speakers, and microphone inside the car. Android is taking another approach to design by embedding the electronics into the car to run the Android operating system.
Mobile meets auto
Gartner analyst Thilo Kowslowsi explained in an interview to the Wall Street Journal, “The car is becoming the ultimate mobile device. Apple Inc. (NASDAQ:AAPL) and Google Inc (NASDAQ:GOOG) see that and are trying to line up allies to bring their technology into the vehicle.”
With the ever-growing demand for mobile technology, it’s inevitable that this technology would soon meet with cars as both companies vie to become the leader now and in the future. For now, we can expect the automotive industry to make great strides in the future. General Motors’ chief executive announced that all car models from 2015 onward will feature 4G chips. This is to enable internet connection without a smartphone.
