With all of the technology being put into cars these days, automakers are becoming more and more dependent on software developers to provide what is becoming a necessity for future drivers. Between functionality, entertainment and other uses, many technology developers are already working on future concepts and devices for automakers and are excited at opportunities that will follow their venture into the automotive industry.
Full Integration
With a majority of cars utilizing infotainment systems, software and device companies such as Microsoft, Google and Apple see a world of possibilities for future integration across a variety of digital platforms. Between Windows 8 and Apple’s Mountain Lion, people’s digital lives are already becoming synced up between their mobile devices and home computers. If the next popular mobile device is going to in equipped into a car, it would just be a natural transition.
Besides connecting with peoples’ digital lives, this new technology would provide an array of other features that could provide significantly more control from interior settings to potentially steering. When that happens, independent developers will probably be jumping at the opportunity to create an app that will allow users to drive their car via their smart phone.
The Upgrade(s)
Though full integration with cars may be down the road, developers are currently working on these applications and plan to implement their solutions as soon as possible. Sounds great to some, but in addition to keeping their users connected, is that also going to keep developers connected to our wallets? With the idea of future required upgrades for cars, one can only question the potential costs that may be associated with being up-to-date.
Currently, when the auto industry comes out with any significant advances in car manufacturing, they occur at a much slower rate than at what the technology industry churns out almost annually. For example, Rams and Jeeps are currently utilizing 8 and 9 speed transmissions, which is revolutionary for the consumer auto industry mentions Reedman Toll. Before that, cars have been using 6 and 5 speed transmission forever. For more information on how 8 and 9 speed transmissions help with fuel economy, contact us at Reedman Toll.
If a vehicle is fully integrated with this new technology, however, does that mean that the device which controls a good portion of the vehicle’s functionality need to be replaced every two years? Or let’s say a software developer decides to create a new OS for a mobile device. How will this react to a car device that uses an older OS and equipment and what would the cost be to make sure that everything interacts without any issues? Instead of driving a cell phone provider to sync up a mobile device, people may have to drive to their car dealership.
Should Your Car Be a Mobile Device?
While this may be a great area for developers to capitalize on new growth, what does it mean for future car owners? Sure it provides some cool gadgets for those who can’t live without technology, but what about everyone else who doesn’t need to be entirely connected? Many will be sure to overcome the learning curve in time, but just because people will become familiar with this technology doesn’t make it a necessity, or does it? As time progresses, it’s clear that people will become more dependent on future technology. The benefits associated with these features may outweigh the cons, it still asks presents one important question, “Should your car be a mobile device?”Despite what people want or think about this, it’s apparent that the technology industry thinks so. Whatever happens happens…just make sure not to download a new autopilot app for your car until it has been thoroughly tested.