Samsung Wants Better Software Integration Between Cars and its Phones
The continued modernization of in-vehicle infotainment platforms has gradually allowed manufacturers to continue improving the software onboard our cars, and as a result we’ve seen some rather interesting developments over the past few years. Take for example Samsung, which recently announced a new collaborative effort alongside Hyundai Motors and Kia.
More specifically, a new agreement was signed between the three companies is aimed at fully integrating Samsung’s SmartThings platform with compatible Hyundai and Kia vehicles, or “software-defined vehicles” as the official announcement puts it. Essentially, the agreement gives Samsung the opportunity to integrate SmartThings with Hyundai and Kia’s next-gen infotainment systems, which includes global location solution function for vehicles and smart keys through the SmartThings Find platform.
Think of it as something similar to Google and Apple’s “Find My” system which uses a network of hundreds of millions of Samsung Galaxy devices that use the Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) technology to report their location. This then allows drivers to easily track down their cars should they be stolen or lost.
Drivers can also use their Galaxy device’s “Quick Panel” to manage certain controls onboard their car, including air conditioning and remaining range all from their phone. Vehicles can also be added to the connected SmartThings ecosystem, which should be handy for users in controlling their Samsung air conditioners, air purifiers or other connected devices on the drive back home.
Samsung adds that it will continue collaborating with Hyundai and Kia to “provide various AI-based services tailored to customer lifestyles and preferences.” This includes in-vehicle health monitoring via cameras and Galaxy devices, pet care solutions as well as integration with smart apartment solutions and SDVs all via the SmartThings platform.
Source: Samsung