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NEWS
BMW and Samsung collaborate on wristwatch apps
In the future, monitoring vehicle functions could be as simple as checking the timeThe Consumer Electronics Show (CES) can be a Geek Mecca, attracting those not afraid to don the latest in wearable technology. Google Glasses, smart watches, jackets with more pockets dedicated to charger cables and fibre-optic outlets, it is all part of the Geekiverse today and making its way from the sidewalk and into our cars.
BMW at CES 2014 is jumping on board with the smartwatch brigade, specifically those sporting the Samsung Galaxy Gear, which has been selling quite well since September, and now pairs with a greater range of Samsung smartphones to deliver content to the wrist.
Drivers of the new BMW i3 will now be able to smugly point at their wrist and say not only are they saving the world's ecology, but they can do it remotely.
In Las Vegas BMW became the world’s first carmaker to present vehicle functions on the electronic wristwatch as part of a research application. The Samsung Galaxy Gear with BMW i Remote App functions has similar attributes to the BMW i Remote App, which keeps drivers connected with their BMW i3 at all times and also works to provide the assistance they need outside the car.
The Samsung Galaxy Gear with BMW i Remote App functions offers information on the battery charge and available range of the compact class all-electric premium model, as well as any departure times that have been keyed in. The research application also shows whether the windows, doors and sunroof are closed and allows users to send a navigation destination to the vehicle or adjust the on-board climate in preparation for a journey – with the option of spoken commands via S Voice, Samsung’s speech recognition assistant.
Meanwhile, over at Hyundai, software developers have announced the cloud-based Blue Link platform.
Streaming information and commands to devices such as the Google Glass wearable internet connected specs, Blue Link will enable Hyundai owners access to features such as remote start and service information.
According to Hyundai, wearable devices will help owners save time and add a new level of convenience by allowing remote interaction with the vehicle without the need to pull out their smartphone. Hyundai plans to launch a Blue Link Glassware application in the U.S. with the all-new 2015 Genesis sedan.
“We see wearables as a technology trend, expanding from fitness and health monitoring to broader applications,” said Barry Ratzlaff, executive director, Customer Connect and Service Business Development, Hyundai Motor America.
“As a leader in connected car technology, we’re always exploring new ways to use technology to enhance the ownership experience for our customers. Wearables are a great way to extend the experience outside of the vehicle by leveraging these small screens to quickly access remote features and deliver timely vehicle information.”
Push notifications will alert the owner when maintenance is due and allow quick service scheduling by enabling the wearer to initiate a call using the device’s built-in functionality.
The application will also allow owners to access popular Blue Link features like remote start, remote door lock/unlock, vehicle finder and POI send-to-car powered by Google, quickly using the device’s compact interface.
“Genesis is a unique take on luxury where the owner experience is enabled through the intelligent application of technology, features and services that empower the owner,” said Mark Dipko, director of Corporate Planning and Strategy at Hyundai Motor America. “We feel this vehicle is a great product to showcase how the latest technology can enhance the ownership experience and give owners more time and convenience.”
With the launch of Blue Link, Hyundai also launched its Blue Link app for iOS and Android platforms to give subscribers quick access to Blue Link features while on the go.
“In 2013, we saw millions of commands sent to Hyundai vehicles from our Blue Link mobile application,” said Ratzlaff. “As new screens emerge, we see a real opportunity to expand our app strategy to provide added convenience for our owners.”
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Written byMike Bantick
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