Jan. 18, 2017—Ford, Toyota, Peugeot-Citroen, Suzuki, Subaru parent company Fuji Heavy Industries and a group of suppliers want to develop an open-source software platform to improve in-cab connectivity, according to a report by Autoweek.
The consortium plans to use Ford’s AppLink software as the basis for the new open-source platform. The new platform will allow smartphone app developers to integrate their app functions into in-vehicle tech including infotainment screens, steering wheel controls and voice-activated features.
This new uniform standard will also benefit consumers as the open-source format will promote greater software security.
“Connectivity between smartphones and the vehicle interface is one of the most important connected services. Using SmartDeviceLink, we can provide this service to our customers in a safe and secure manner,” said Shigeki Tomoyama, president of Toyota’s Connected Company.
Reportedly, Toyota plans to offer a telematics system in its cars based on SmartDeviceLink in 2018.
