Nokia aims to set smartphone-to-car standard

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Nokia aims to set smartphone-to-car standard

Partners with Harman for data sharing, but Google may be working with GM

By CAROLINE GABRIEL

Published: 19 May, 2010

READ MORE: Nokia | M2M | Standards

Operators no longer talk about the three screens - cellphone, TV and PC - but sharing content and services over many screens from fridges to cars. The in-car web systems are particularly important, and Nokia has announced plans to work with automotive entertainment firm Harman to codevelop a smartphone-to-car interface.

Nokia wants to go a step further and make this interface, for passing data and content between the two systems, into an industry standard - though so far, it hasn't announced a timetable. The partners said the connection would be via USB, with Bluetooth as a back-up.

"The infotainment system of a modern car is a natural extension for the capabilities of smartphones," said Vesa Luiro, director of Nokia's automotive business unit. The two companies see a broad range of applications for a more integrated car/mobile system. The full range of smartphone apps could be offered via the high quality screens and audio systems in the car, and the handset and car could exchange information and tap into GPS.

Of course, Nokia has an eye on further enhancing its location and directions offering, Ovi Maps, which has been its most successful mobile software initiative since it made the app free early this year. It says the new connection could combine GPS data with vehicle information - for instance, locating a nearby gas station after a low fuel warning. Luiro said: "Not only will it simplify the use of turn-by-turn voice guidance from Ovi Maps, but also provide a new and easy way of accessing other content on the smartphone, such as music and delivering automotive specific applications from the Ovi Store."

Pioneer has been working on a similar system using a tethered iPhone, while last week saw reports that Google was in talks to integrate Android with General Motors' OnStar car service. This would allow the smartphone to control many auto functions remotely and also support similar features to Ford's MyFord Touch, which provides dashboard phone control, navigation and media playing.