Nokia Announces Spec to Integrate Mobile Apps into Cars
May 19, 2010, 9:04 AM by Eric M. Zeman
Nokia today in partnership with the CE4A (Consumer Electronics for Automotive) working group have released a new specification that would let mobile applications work directly with cars' entertainment systems. Nokia and CE4A propose that the Terminal Mode specification become an industry standard for both automobile and handset manufacturers. Once adopted, the standard would allow smartphones to integrate with the entertainment systems in cars and occupants could make use of all the smartphone's features, services, and applications through the screens and audio systems that are built into the car. Nokia says services such as Ovi Maps and Ovi Music could be accessed via the car's controls rather than the phone's. Nokia has recently established collaborations with Alpine Electronics, Continental, Fiat, Harman Becker, Magneti Marelli and Valmet Automotive to pair car systems with smartphones. Members of the CE4A include Audi, BMW, Daimler, Porsche and Volkswagen.