Where in the World Wide Web Will Your Car Take You Next?
Imagine the next new car that you purchase as a giant computer with 20 inch rims driving down the road. It gives mobile web a whole new meaning, doesn't it? The future of web browsing is hitting the road as new technologies become standard features in brands like Ford, Mercedes, and Chevy. While many States fear that these new technologies are a distraction, many automakers are dedicated to additional safety features and heavily leveraging new voice-recognition systems. As these systems continue to advance, mobile web browsing becomes more deeply integrated into everyday life.
Luxury used to mean not having to manually roll your windows down or having a remote to unlock your doors. Today we expect things like Bluetooth, in-dash navigation, and iPod integration as standard features. A car's capabilities have expanded dramatically since introducing computer chips - they self diagnose, remind you to fill up, and update your Facebook status. Although the technologies are still restricted by safety factors, you have to wonder, how long will it be before new cars drive themselves while you catch up on your favorite blog or movie?
Currently, the latest in car technology trend is focused on Infotainment Systems. These systems integrate your smartphone with your car. For example, Sync by Microsoft is used in Ford who calls it MyFord Touch. You can play music from your iPod or Pandora, control your mobile apps on your phone, and get directions all using hands-free controls. The system also reads incoming text messages, reports vehicle health and driving efficiencies, it can post Facebook updates, and will even dial 911 if your airbags deploy. Sync also allows you to create a Wi-fi hot spot in your car using your mobile phone so passengers can surf the web.
In-car technology is currently hardware based making it costly and difficult to keep it up to date. However, MyFord Touch is the first system starting to shift towards a software based system. Instead of having to buy an aftermarket in-dash navigation system, the vehicle comes preinstalled with the hardware needed and you would visit the automakers app store to download the navigation application. This shift opens the door to software developers, allowing a whole new world of mobile applications that can be developed and downloaded specifically for in-car use.
'In five years, nearly 25 percent of cars will be connected to the Internet,' this according to analyst Richard Robinson of iSuppli Telematics, a global leader in technology value chain research and advisory services.
As automakers continue to experiment with advancing technology, we will see more cars become rolling hotspots, either tethering to a mobile phone like the MyFord Touch or coming with 4G connectivity and a dedicated data plan. Instead of playing your child's favorite DVD on the next road trip, you'll be able to stream Netflix movies. However, cars present several additional challenges that must be taken into consideration. Technology features shouldn't distract or disturb the driver, something that automakers like Mercedes are trying to solve. Available as an option in the new S-class and CL-class vehicles is a SplitView dashboard screen. The display projects two images, one for the driver and one for the passenger. This allows the passenger to watch a movie while the driver sees the standard navigation screen.
'In the very near future, your dashboard may soon become as versatile as your laptop.' - Car and Driver magazine.
As online innovators, we need to consider how we can work with these new technologies - perhaps we need to design for another device or incorporate voice control capabilities. Understanding the technology and where it's headed will help us navigate the new territory.