Autoblog http://www.autoblog.com Autoblog http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/www.autoblog.com/media/feedlogo.gif Autoblog http://www.autoblog.com en-us Copyright 2013 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/<![CDATA[Facebook buying nav/traffic app Waze for $1B?]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/13/facebook-buying-nav-traffic-app-waze-for-1b/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/13/facebook-buying-nav-traffic-app-waze-for-1b/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/13/facebook-buying-nav-traffic-app-waze-for-1b/#commentsFiled under: ,

Waze

TechCrunch reports that Facebook is moving to purchase the navigation and traffic app Waze for a lofty sum. The buy would be the latest in a long line of high-dollar acquisitions by the social networking site, and both sides of the acquisition have reportedly entered into advanced due diligence after negotiations began six months ago. Early estimates put the payout somewhere between $800 million and $1 billion... if both sides can overcome a few stumbling blocks. The biggest of those is whether or not Waze will remain based in Israel or if it will relocate to the US.

While both companies are remaining silent about the potential purchase, such a move makes sense. Facebook is constantly refining its mobile experience, and the site boasts 751 million active monthly mobile users. That's a jump of 54 percent over last year, outpacing Facebook's desktop growth by nearly double, and the site would surely benefit by offering its mobile users navigation functionality.

Interestingly, this apparently isn't the first time Waze has found itself the object of a larger entity's lust - Apple reportedly showed interest in the company not so long ago.

Facebook buying nav/traffic app Waze for $1B? originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 13 May 2013 10:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>appfacebooknavigationwazeMon, 13 May 2013 10:15:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20566008/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/05/13/facebook-buying-nav-traffic-app-waze-for-1b/20566008/article-detail.xml 20566008 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/waze-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/waze-628.jpg <![CDATA[NHTSA SaferCar app allows consumers to track safety ratings, recalls]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/03/25/nhtsa-safercar-app-allows-consumers-to-track-safety-ratings-rec/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/03/25/nhtsa-safercar-app-allows-consumers-to-track-safety-ratings-rec/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/03/25/nhtsa-safercar-app-allows-consumers-to-track-safety-ratings-rec/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

NHTSA SaferCar appWhile many car shoppers say safety is a big factor in their choice of new car, there hasn't been an easy to way to access data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. The government agency's website is clunky at best, and close to unusable on mobile devices.

That's why NHTSA decided to release the SaferCar app for mobile iOS devices. Users can easily access crash test ratings, recalls and complaints about hundreds of cars. Use the app to scan your car's VIN and it will even alert you to news and recall notices. The app also helps with the proper installation of child safety seats by directing users to the nearest fire or police station and other entities that can assist.

But possibly a more important piece of news from NHTSA today is that it will open up its databanks and Application Programming Interfaces (API) to other app developers so the data can be used in other apps. NHTSA will even publish an online course to teach programmers how to access and use the APIs.

The free app is available now from Apple's App Store, and you can read more about it in the press release below.

Continue reading NHTSA SaferCar app allows consumers to track safety ratings, recalls

NHTSA SaferCar app allows consumers to track safety ratings, recalls originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 25 Mar 2013 08:47:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>appapplechild safety seatIOSnational highway traffic safety administrationnhtsasafercar appsafetyMon, 25 Mar 2013 08:47:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20515049/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/03/25/nhtsa-safercar-app-allows-consumers-to-track-safety-ratings-rec/20515049/article-detail.xml 20515049 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/03/nhtsa-app-scrn-grab-opt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/03/nhtsa-app-scrn-grab-opt.jpg <![CDATA[Quick Play: <i>Table Top Racing</i>]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/02/11/quick-play-table-top-racing/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/02/11/quick-play-table-top-racing/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/02/11/quick-play-table-top-racing/#commentsFiled under:

Tabletop Racing splash screen

Studio Playrise Digital has recently launched a clever new micro-scaled racing game for Apple's App Store, called Table Top Racing ($2.99). As the name indicates, the basic theme for the iPhone and iPad app is that of a kid staging imaginative "races" with toy cars - all along the surfaces of handy, obstacle-dotted table tops. After spending a few days with Table Top Racing, here's what we thought.

Play Notes
  • The overall look and feel of the game is chunky, charming and easy to understand. Menus are simple and streamlined, and designed so that you're pretty much always just one step away from your garage, where all of the important car selecting and tuning happens. The graphics are bright, clear and clean, though hardly cutting edge in the ever-more sophisticated world of tablet/smart phone gaming.
  • Racing action is very simple to catch on to. Races happen in a few different formats, but basically this is a Mario Kart-lite experience. Drive wacky cars, fire weapons or set traps along the track, try to survive the race and finish in first place.
  • Steering is accomplished by way of right/left buttons on the extreme sides of the screen. We played Table Top Racing exclusively on the iPad for this test, and found the steering buttons to be a bit on the small side. It's too easy to "miss" the button zone and then miss your turn as a result. Don't expect your Micro Machine-style racer to handle with realistic physics, either. This wasn't our expectation, and the driving is perfectly satisfying for a game of this type with such stylized handling.
  • Difficulty feels spot-on in this app. It's easy enough to get started and win a few races off the bat, and earning enough money to keep your racer competitive isn't too challenging in the early going. By the later Championships, the going is reasonably tougher. Of course, TTR allows for you to make purchases of in-game coins using real money, too, so you can buy your way into the top-spec cars whenever you get too frustrated.
  • With all of that said, we would def finitely consider this to be an "all-ages" app. Kids should have no problem with the straightforward controls; adults will find even the enough variation in difficulty to make this enjoyable.
  • At $2.99, this feels like a good buy from the App Store. If our weekend's worth of testing is any indication, you'll spend 10 hours or more just working through the Championships, and a few more than that completing every race and buying every vehicle. This is a really good choice if you've got a few long flights, train rides, etc. staring you down, with nothing to while away the time.
In addition to our full-length reviews of big-name console racing games, we thought it would be useful to publish brief Quick Play reviews of interesting new racing titles. If you've got a tip about a new racing, driving or otherwise automotive-themed game for us, or if you're a developer with a new game for us to review, feel free to email me at seyth dot miersma at autoblog dot com.

Quick Play: Table Top Racing originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 11 Feb 2013 16:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>appapple app storeplayrise studiosracing gametable top racingtabletop racingMon, 11 Feb 2013 16:59:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20456984/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/02/11/quick-play-table-top-racing/20456984/article-detail.xml 20456984 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/02/table-top-racing-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/02/table-top-racing-628.jpg <![CDATA[Father and son create What's Faster app for iPad [w/video]]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/01/29/father-and-son-create-whats-faster-app-for-ipad-w-video/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/01/29/father-and-son-create-whats-faster-app-for-ipad-w-video/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/01/29/father-and-son-create-whats-faster-app-for-ipad-w-video/#commentsFiled under: ,

What's Faster App

If you've ever pondered on whether an Apache helicopter is faster than a Bugatti Veyron, a father and son duo have come up with an iPad app that can help you out with your quandary. The What's Faster app lines up over 625,000 comparisons across a total of 32 categories, including everything from cars and motorcycles to commercial aircraft and South American roller coasters. The game pairs selections from each category and asks the user to pick the quickest to proceed. Get in a bind, and you can us a handy radar gun to figure out each selection's top speed.

The app also has plenty of information on each vehicle/beast/aircraft you come across. If you like the sound of that party, you can download What's Faster from the App Store for $1.99. For those of you who aren't counting, that's 0.03 cents per comparison. Seems like a steal to us. Head over to the app's site for more information, and be sure to check out the video below.

Continue reading Father and son create What's Faster app for iPad [w/video]

Father and son create What's Faster app for iPad [w/video] originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 29 Jan 2013 08:27:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>appapplicationipadwhats fasterwhats faster appTue, 29 Jan 2013 08:27:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20440971/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/01/29/father-and-son-create-whats-faster-app-for-ipad-w-video/20440971/article-detail.xml 20440971 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/01/whats-faster-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/01/whats-faster-628.jpg <![CDATA[Inrix introduces first global system to guide your car to empty parking spaces]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/01/09/inrix-introduces-first-global-system-to-guide-your-car-to-empty/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/01/09/inrix-introduces-first-global-system-to-guide-your-car-to-empty/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/01/09/inrix-introduces-first-global-system-to-guide-your-car-to-empty/#commentsFiled under: ,



When the book The Secret and the law of attraction was all the rage, one of the most common examples we heard of how people used their innate ability to create whatever they wanted in the world was some variation on, "I envisioned there being an open parking spot." Now you can skip the book and the visualizations with the global parking navigation service launched by Inrix at the 2013 Consumer Electronics Show.

Tapping into the databases of ParkMe and Parkopedia, and using Kenwood Wi-Fi-equipped in-dash receivers also introduced at the show, Inrix provides drivers with real-time information on 18,000 off-street parking facilities in North America and 42,000 throughout 36 countries in Europe. That means not just if there's an empty spot, but "detailed location information," such as how many spaces there are and how much it costs to park in a particular facility.

There's a press release below with more information. It doesn't quite explain the in-dash integration of parking navigation shown in the image above - some info on those Kenwood units would help - but no matter, help finding a spot is coming your way, somehow, soon.

Continue reading Inrix introduces first global system to guide your car to empty parking spaces

Inrix introduces first global system to guide your car to empty parking spaces originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 09 Jan 2013 14:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2013 consumer electronics showappcesces 2013consumer electronics showinrixkenwoodparkingparking navigationparkmeparkopediaWed, 09 Jan 2013 14:01:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20420994/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/01/09/inrix-introduces-first-global-system-to-guide-your-car-to-empty/20420994/article-detail.xml 20420994 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/01/inrixparkingnav_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/01/inrixparkingnav.jpg <![CDATA[Ford and Glympse hook up to give Sync location-sharing technology]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/01/07/ford-and-glympse-hook-up-to-give-sync-location-sharing-technolog/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/01/07/ford-and-glympse-hook-up-to-give-sync-location-sharing-technolog/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/01/07/ford-and-glympse-hook-up-to-give-sync-location-sharing-technolog/#commentsFiled under: , , ,



Among the numerous apps that Ford has added to its Sync AppLink system is the location-sharing service Glympse. After The app is installed on a smartphone and the phone is paired with the AppLink interface either through Bluetooth or USB, a driver just presses the Sync button on the steering wheel and says, "Send Glympse." With that, the vehicle's location is sent to the other parties he has enabled in the app.

Any 'Glympsers' can keep track of the vehicle on their own phones or on a map in a web brower and get updates via e-mail, text, Facebook and Twitter. There's a time-limit to 'glympsing' so that after a pre-set time the app will cease updating its location.

The app was introduced to the Mercedes-Benz A-Class last summer, but we won't be seeing Stuttgart's little hatch in our country for a while. The partnership with Ford gives US drivers a way to experience another OEM integration of what is sure to be our always-in-contact future. The press release below can tell you more about it.

Continue reading Ford and Glympse hook up to give Sync location-sharing technology

Ford and Glympse hook up to give Sync location-sharing technology originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 07 Jan 2013 10:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2013 consumer electronics showandroidappapplinkcesces 2013fordglympseiossyncsync applinkMon, 07 Jan 2013 10:45:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20418598/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/01/07/ford-and-glympse-hook-up-to-give-sync-location-sharing-technolog/20418598/article-detail.xml 20418598 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/01/fordsyncglympse_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/01/fordsyncglympse.jpg <![CDATA[Will your next car feature Bluetooth-enabled, self-adjusting seats? [w/video]]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/12/10/will-your-next-car-feature-bluetooth-enabled-self-adjusting-sea/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/12/10/will-your-next-car-feature-bluetooth-enabled-self-adjusting-sea/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/12/10/will-your-next-car-feature-bluetooth-enabled-self-adjusting-sea/#commentsFiled under:

Faurecia's Bluetooth-enabled smart driver's seat

At one time, recently at that, the 22-way adjustable seat was a marvel - especially since we didn't know our own bodies even had 22 different ways to be seated comfortably. Automotive supplier Faurecia plans on going well beyond that, however, with its prototype Bluetooth-enabled SmartFit seating system.

To get your seat fitted perfectly to your body without having to touch any of its controls, you enter your information into the SmartFit app: gender, height, weight, reach and a picture of yourself sitting down. The data will be uploaded to Faurecia's system, which will work out "your tailored comfort profile," then send that via Bluetooth to the car's seat, and the chair will automatically shape-shift to hold you just like you like.

The app includes adjustments for specialized conditions like back stiffness and leg or thermal discomfort. Going even further, Faurecia imagines you could purchase enhanced seating functions like Shiatsu massage, IsoHeat treatment and "workout relief." Word is they want to bring it to market in the next few years. You can see how it works in the video below.

Continue reading Will your next car feature Bluetooth-enabled, self-adjusting seats? [w/video]

Will your next car feature Bluetooth-enabled, self-adjusting seats? [w/video] originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 10 Dec 2012 16:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>appbluetoothcar seatfaureciamassagemassaging seatseatseatingsmartfitsuppliervideovideosMon, 10 Dec 2012 16:59:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20397953/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/12/10/will-your-next-car-feature-bluetooth-enabled-self-adjusting-sea/20397953/article-detail.xml 20397953 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/12/faureciabtseat_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/12/faureciabtseat.jpg <![CDATA[Siri can now start your car with Viper SmartStart app]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/10/24/siri-can-now-start-your-car-with-viper-smartstart-app/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/10/24/siri-can-now-start-your-car-with-viper-smartstart-app/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/10/24/siri-can-now-start-your-car-with-viper-smartstart-app/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Viper SmartStart app on Apple iPhone 4

Siri has made it pretty easy to do many tasks on your iPhone, but thanks to Viper Alarm, she can now help you start your car, too. Viper's SmartStart 3.0 gives any smartphone the ability to perform many remote functions on a car by using the alarm system's app, but only iPhone 4S and 5 users can get their car running simply by saying, "Siri, start my car." The future is now.

In addition to starting your car and locking and unlocking a car's doors, the latest SmartStart 3.0 now lets you know if you left a door open, send a reminder to start your car if it's cold outside and even use GPS to find your car from just about anywhere. The GPS function does require users to spring for a $399 GPS module and pay for a service plan, with prices ranging from $49.99 for a one-year basic contract up to $239.99 for a three-year premium plan. SmartStart alarm systems alone range in price from $399 up to $599.

Check out how Viper's new SmartStart 3.0 system works with Siri in the video below.

Continue reading Siri can now start your car with Viper SmartStart app

Siri can now start your car with Viper SmartStart app originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 24 Oct 2012 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>appiphonesirismartstartvideoviper alarmviper smartstartviper smartstart 3.0Wed, 24 Oct 2012 08:00:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20356360/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/10/24/siri-can-now-start-your-car-with-viper-smartstart-app/20356360/article-detail.xml 20356360 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/10/viper-smartstart_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/10/viper-smartstart.jpg <![CDATA[GoPro unveils Hero3, free app for Apple iPod and iPad [w/video]]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/10/20/gopro-unveils-hero3-free-app-for-apple-ipod-and-ipad-w-video/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/10/20/gopro-unveils-hero3-free-app-for-apple-ipod-and-ipad-w-video/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/10/20/gopro-unveils-hero3-free-app-for-apple-ipod-and-ipad-w-video/#commentsFiled under: , ,

GoPro Hero3

GoPro AppThe minds at GoPro have been busy lately. Earlier this month, the company pulled the wraps off its long-awaited app for the iPhone and iPad. When combined with the optional WiFi BacPac for the Hero2, the application can link to multiple cameras to change settings on the fly, as well as preview video and photos without having to remove the camera from its case or mount. Even better, the software is free, though GoPro will ask you to pony up around $60 for the WiFi add on. While the app is only available for Apple devices at the moment, GoPro says an Android version is in the works.

That's exciting and all, but not nearly as much as word that the new Hero3 has officially hit the market. The Hero3 Black Edition is a full 30 percent smaller than its predecessor, which means its also a quarter lighter. Designers made the gadget twice as powerful, though, building in 1440p video at 48 frames per second, 1080p at 60 fps, and 720p at 120 fps. Even more surprising, the camera can click off 12-megapixel photos at a staggering 30 shots per second. WiFi is now built in, and the Black Edition includes the handy WiFi remote. Check out the videos below to see the new gear in action while we update our holiday wish lists.

Continue reading GoPro unveils Hero3, free app for Apple iPod and iPad [w/video]

GoPro unveils Hero3, free app for Apple iPod and iPad [w/video] originally appeared on Autoblog on Sat, 20 Oct 2012 10:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>appapplegoprogopro appgopro hero3hero3ipadiphonevideoSat, 20 Oct 2012 10:01:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20350597/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/10/20/gopro-unveils-hero3-free-app-for-apple-ipod-and-ipad-w-video/20350597/article-detail.xml 20350597 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/10/hero3-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/10/hero3-628.jpg <![CDATA[Audi creates custom A4 slot car track [w/video]]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/10/03/audi-creates-custom-a4-slot-car-track-w-video/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/10/03/audi-creates-custom-a4-slot-car-track-w-video/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/10/03/audi-creates-custom-a4-slot-car-track-w-video/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Audi Slot Car Track

Audi recently whipped up an interesting piece of advertising in Toronto's Royal Bank Plaza. Partnering with Slot Mods USA, the German manufacturer created a handmade slot car track, complete with a set of scale Audi A4 models. Slot Mods USA employed some pretty interesting tech to create the cars. Using an industrial laser scanner, the company built a digital outline of the sedan before sending it off to a 3D printer to create the bodyshells. Slot Mods USA then sourced an all-wheel-drive slot car chassis from a separate company.

Given how much emphasis Audi puts on traction, the cars were built with special magnets to keep them planted on the track, and each racer was built with a mini camera that can feed images to an iPad wirelessly. Drivers control each car via an iPad app, and the camera feed gives operators an idea of what it's like to drive on the scale creation. Check out a few videos of the track below.

Continue reading Audi creates custom A4 slot car track [w/video]

Audi creates custom A4 slot car track [w/video] originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 03 Oct 2012 12:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>a4appaudiaudi a4audi a4 slot caripadipad appslot carslot car trackslot mods usaslotcarvideoWed, 03 Oct 2012 12:45:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20340211/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/10/03/audi-creates-custom-a4-slot-car-track-w-video/20340211/article-detail.xml 20340211 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/10/audi-slot-car-track-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/10/audi-slot-car-track-628.jpg <![CDATA[ACLU launches phone app to help motorists secretly record police stops [w/video]]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/07/05/aclu-launches-phone-app-to-help-motorists-secretly-record-police/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/07/05/aclu-launches-phone-app-to-help-motorists-secretly-record-police/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/07/05/aclu-launches-phone-app-to-help-motorists-secretly-record-police/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

ACLU-NJ police encounter recording app - how-to video screencap

Shortly after the New York branch of the American Civil Liberties Union created an app called Stop and Frisk Watch, in response to the law enforcement tactic of the same name, the ACLU branch in New Jersey has created a Police Tape app.

It does exactly what it says on the box: records audio and, if you choose, video, of an encounter. The app interface disappears when in action so that it can't be switched off by anyone who happens to glance at the phone and the recordings are stored on the phone in a place where it would take a "tech-savvy" officer to find them and delete them. Furthermore, the recordings can be automatically uploaded to secure ACLU-NJ servers so that police can't delete them later. The app also apprises users of their rights when in their cars, on the street, when at home, and when being arrested.

Whether or not you agree with the app, it's kind of crazy that we've gotten to a point where everybody feels they have to make recordings of everybody else and store them in Iron Mountain just to make sure that justice prevails. But at least this way you won't have to wear a helmet-cam. The app is available now for Android phones, with an iPhone version coming shortly. Scroll down to watch a rather strange ACLU-NJ video on how it works.

Continue reading ACLU launches phone app to help motorists secretly record police stops [w/video]

ACLU launches phone app to help motorists secretly record police stops [w/video] originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 05 Jul 2012 11:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>acluaclu new jerseyaclu-njamerican civil liberties unionandroidandroid appappcamera phonelaw enforcementpolicepolice recorderpolice stopsurveillanceThu, 05 Jul 2012 11:31:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20271947/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/07/05/aclu-launches-phone-app-to-help-motorists-secretly-record-police/20271947/article-detail.xml 20271947 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/07/aclu-njpolicetapeapp_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/07/aclu-njpolicetapeapp.jpg <![CDATA[Livio developing common standard for using apps in cars]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/04/20/livio-developing-common-standard-for-using-apps-in-cars/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/04/20/livio-developing-common-standard-for-using-apps-in-cars/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/04/20/livio-developing-common-standard-for-using-apps-in-cars/#commentsFiled under: ,

Livio internet radio graphic

We can't see any way for Mr. LaHood and his crusaders against distracted driving to win; consumers want access to their connected lives even while behind the wheel and they're going to find a way to get it. Even if it means not being able to actually use a cellphone, manufacturers are right now working on ways to further integrate the app-sphere into their infotainment systems, and a Michigan company called Livio would like to help them.

Livio makes devices so you can get Internet radio in your car. It has begun working on a set of software tools that will provide a common language between automakers' inftotainment systems and apps. Livio wants to develop the software with each interested maker to provide integration tailored to specific systems, and its role as translator would free automakers from software duties and give app makers an easier route to in-car adaptability.

One could ask why don't automakers simply work together on a common standard. It's possible that they are, but with carmakers having come so far with their own systems, with infotainment one of the hottest battlegrounds between brands, and with colossal variation in regulatory diktats, we can see why Livio is presenting the option. The firm hasn't set up any deals yet, but automakers and electronics firms are paying attention.

Livio developing common standard for using apps in cars originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 20 Apr 2012 08:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>appappsconnectivityin-car entertainmentinfotainmentinternet radiolivioFri, 20 Apr 2012 08:29:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20219748/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/04/20/livio-developing-common-standard-for-using-apps-in-cars/20219748/article-detail.xml 20219748 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/04/livioappware_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/04/livioappware.jpg <![CDATA[Reckless Racing 2 video game turned into radio-controlled reality]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/03/08/reckless-racing-2-video-game-turned-into-radio-controlled-realit/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/03/08/reckless-racing-2-video-game-turned-into-radio-controlled-realit/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/03/08/reckless-racing-2-video-game-turned-into-radio-controlled-realit/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Reckless Racing 2 in real life

If you've never played Reckless Racing 2, odds are you've taken the helm of similar games in the past. Players are given control of a vehicle viewed from above as it bashes its way around a dirt track with other cars.

Sony Ericsson recently partnered up with noted car hacker James Brighton to create a real-life version of Reckless Driving 2 using a pair of droptop MG models and Sony's new Xperia Studio smartphone. Sony and Brighton then invited Martin Noriander, the developer behind Reckless Racing 2, and journalist Hunter Skipworth to compete head-to-head with the real-life cars.

Who came out on top? We won't spoil it for you, but we will say there was a good bit of carnage as the duo tried to manipulate their chariots around the course. See below to check out the quick video for yourself.

Continue reading Reckless Racing 2 video game turned into radio-controlled reality

Reckless Racing 2 video game turned into radio-controlled reality originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 08 Mar 2012 14:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>appgamemgrc carreckless racingreckless racing 2remote controlled carsmartphonesony ericssonsony ericsson xperia studiovideoxperia stuidoThu, 08 Mar 2012 14:58:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20186704/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/03/08/reckless-racing-2-video-game-turned-into-radio-controlled-realit/20186704/article-detail.xml 20186704 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/03/reckless-racing-2-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/03/reckless-racing-2-628.jpg <![CDATA[Toyota Belgium offering adventurous location-based RAV4 discounts]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/21/toyota-belgium-offering-adventurous-location-based-rav4-discount/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/21/toyota-belgium-offering-adventurous-location-based-rav4-discount/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/21/toyota-belgium-offering-adventurous-location-based-rav4-discount/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

RAV4 Black Edition

Toyota Belgium has just launched a new campaign for the Toyota RAV4 Black Edition that allows participants to earn discounts for the vehicle based on their location. Smartphone users download the RAV4 Adventure Discount App, travel to a so-called adventurous location within Belgium and sign in with the application. The app then calculates a discount based on just how daring you are. While far-flung wilderness locations are an obvious choice for big discounts, Toyota has hinted there are plenty of adventurous spots in city locales as well.

The campaign seems pretty brilliant to us, though we have to wonder how many RAV4 buyers will be willing to cover hill and dale in pursuit of a few extra hundred euros off of their bottom line. So far, it appears the app and the discounts are only good in Belgium, though it wouldn't surprise us if Toyota used a similar marketing ploy in other markets. Hit the jump to check out an ad for the app after the jump, complete with a mustachioed woodsman.

Continue reading Toyota Belgium offering adventurous location-based RAV4 discounts

Toyota Belgium offering adventurous location-based RAV4 discounts originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 21 Feb 2012 16:55:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>appapplicationbelgiumrav4 adventure discount apprav4 appsmartphonetoyota belgiumtoyota rav4toyota rav4 black editionvideoTue, 21 Feb 2012 16:55:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20174990/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/02/21/toyota-belgium-offering-adventurous-location-based-rav4-discount/20174990/article-detail.xml 20174990 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/02/rav4-black-edition-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/02/rav4-black-edition-628.jpg <![CDATA[eBay Motors app adds search-by-image feature]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/05/ebay-motors-app-updated-with-search-by-image-feature/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/05/ebay-motors-app-updated-with-search-by-image-feature/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/05/ebay-motors-app-updated-with-search-by-image-feature/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

eBay Motors smartphone application

The eBay Motors smartphone application has a clever new feature. Users can now take a photo of any car they see on the street and the app will find similar listings for them automatically. Want to know how much that 2005 BMW M3 in the parking lot is going for right now? Just point and shoot. We tested the app ourselves and found it to be fairly accurate. It had no trouble honing in on a Toyota Sienna, but struggled a bit with editor-in-chief John Neff's 1991 Ford Taurus SHO.

The good news is that if the app gets confused, it just asks you for more information about the vehicle. Users can also be notified when they've been outbid on an item, share their auctions via Twitter, and watch special racing coverage with host Justin Bell. Hit the jump to check out the full press blast.

Continue reading eBay Motors app adds search-by-image feature

eBay Motors app adds search-by-image feature originally appeared on Autoblog on Sun, 05 Feb 2012 10:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>appapplicationauctionebay motors appebay motors applicationiphonesmartphoneSun, 05 Feb 2012 10:01:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20160701/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/02/05/ebay-motors-app-updated-with-search-by-image-feature/20160701/article-detail.xml 20160701 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/01/ebay-iphone-app_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/01/ebay-iphone-app.jpg <![CDATA[Toyota using Shazam music ID app for new TV spot, giveaway]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/04/toyota-leveraging-shazam-music-id-app-for-new-tv-spot-giveaway/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/04/toyota-leveraging-shazam-music-id-app-for-new-tv-spot-giveaway/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/04/toyota-leveraging-shazam-music-id-app-for-new-tv-spot-giveaway/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

2012 Toyota Camry

Toyota is looking to meld the smartphones with the television in a new ad campaign. The automaker is giving fans a chance to win two Camrys in new promotion that uses the Shazam mobile app in conjunction with a TV spot. When the commercial airs, viewers simply fire up Shazam and enter the giveaway. (They can also enter the sweepstakes online.) Toyota says the program is the first and largest of its kind to use Shazam.

The "Connections" TV spot is designed to encourage further exploration of the so-called "Camry Effect," a social media campaign focused on how the Camry impacts people's lives for the better. Fans can enter the sweepstakes once daily for a chance to take home a Camry for themselves and one for a friend. Hit the jump for the full press release.

Continue reading Toyota using Shazam music ID app for new TV spot, giveaway

Toyota using Shazam music ID app for new TV spot, giveaway originally appeared on Autoblog on Sat, 04 Feb 2012 10:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2012 toyota camry giveawayappapplicationcamrycamry giveawaycamry sweepstakesgiveawayshazamsmart phonesweepstakestoyotatoyota camrySat, 04 Feb 2012 10:02:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20159666/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/02/04/toyota-leveraging-shazam-music-id-app-for-new-tv-spot-giveaway/20159666/article-detail.xml 20159666 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/01/2012-toyota-camry-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/01/2012-toyota-camry-628.jpg <![CDATA[Chevy launches app to give away tons of stuff during Super Bowl]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/21/chevy-launches-app-to-give-away-tons-of-stuff-during-super-bowl/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/21/chevy-launches-app-to-give-away-tons-of-stuff-during-super-bowl/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/21/chevy-launches-app-to-give-away-tons-of-stuff-during-super-bowl/#commentsFiled under: , ,



Because the Super Bowl isn't enough of a spectacle already, there will be 20 Chevrolet vehicles and a heap of other prizes up for grabs during the big game. General Motors has revealed the Chevy Game Time app, which, once downloaded, presents trivia questions and polls about what's happening during the broadcast. Get the right answer or the most common answer, and you're put in a drawing for one of those numerous gifts.

There are also instant-win opportunities so you don't have to wait until next month to be a winner. As to those 20 cars, each user that downloads the app gets a unique "license plate" and if your plate matches a plate on one of the Chevys shown during the game, you'll win a car.

Follow the jump for the video and press release, and get to downloading on Sunday, January 22 if you like swag with your Super Bowl.

Continue reading Chevy launches app to give away tons of stuff during Super Bowl

Chevy launches app to give away tons of stuff during Super Bowl originally appeared on Autoblog on Sat, 21 Jan 2012 10:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>androidandroid appappapp storechevrolet game time appcontestgame time appsuper bowlSat, 21 Jan 2012 10:01:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20153691/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/01/21/chevy-launches-app-to-give-away-tons-of-stuff-during-super-bowl/20153691/article-detail.xml 20153691 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/01/chevysuperbowlapp_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/01/chevysuperbowlapp.jpg <![CDATA[Nothing says "Chip Foose" like... Volkswagen?]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/20/nothing-says-chip-foose-like-volkswagen/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/20/nothing-says-chip-foose-like-volkswagen/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/20/nothing-says-chip-foose-like-volkswagen/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,



To help tell the story of the 256-horsepower 2012 Golf R, Volkswagen has enlisted aid from an unexpected quarter: hot rodder and kandy-kolored-tangerine-flake-inclined Chip Foose.

Turns out that Mr. Overhaulin' owned a 1985 Golf GTI and thought the world of it, and he engages in a couple minutes of reminiscing about his Mk II to prove it.

The video is after the jump, and there's a new Golf R Apple iPad app which should also help those of you looking for more interactive elements when digging into the history of one of the original hot hatches (we've included a video of the app after the jump, too).

Continue reading Nothing says "Chip Foose" like... Volkswagen?

Nothing says "Chip Foose" like... Volkswagen? originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 20 Jan 2012 19:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2012 volkswagen golf rappchip foosegolfgolf rgtiipadvideovolkswagenvwvw golfvw golf rFri, 20 Jan 2012 19:01:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20152007/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/01/20/nothing-says-chip-foose-like-volkswagen/20152007/article-detail.xml 20152007 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/01/chip-foose-vw-golf-gti_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/01/chip-foose-vw-golf-gti.jpg <![CDATA[DashCommand update integrates with Pioneer AppRadio]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/12/27/dashcommand-update-integrates-with-pioneer-appradio/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/12/27/dashcommand-update-integrates-with-pioneer-appradio/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/12/27/dashcommand-update-integrates-with-pioneer-appradio/#commentsFiled under:

Pioneer DashCommand

DashCommand for Windows, Android and iOS has been around for a while, but the most recent update for the iPhone allows you to view all the OBD-II-sourced data directly on your Pioneer AppRadio.

As we've said before, the real draw of the AppRadio isn't just its 6.1-inch, capacitive multi-touch screen, it's the ability for third parties to integrate their apps into the display. In the case of DashCommand, you can port over 229 different data points through your iPhone, iPad or iPod Touch using an OBDII connector. A maximum of 27 customizable gauges show you everything from coolant temps to check engine lights, and using the built-in accelerometer and GPS systems, you can also display an inclinometer, G-forces and even race track mapping. Get all the details in at DashCommand's site.

DashCommand update integrates with Pioneer AppRadio originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 27 Dec 2011 08:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>appapp radioappradiodash commanddashcommandipadiphoneobd 2obd-iipioneerpioneer appradioTue, 27 Dec 2011 08:01:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20131238/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/12/27/dashcommand-update-integrates-with-pioneer-appradio/20131238/article-detail.xml 20131238 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/12/dashcommand-appradio-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/12/dashcommand-appradio-628.jpg <![CDATA[Ford teasing 2013 Fusion with new interactive app]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/12/13/ford-teasing-2013-fusion-hybrid-with-new-interactive-app/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/12/13/ford-teasing-2013-fusion-hybrid-with-new-interactive-app/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/12/13/ford-teasing-2013-fusion-hybrid-with-new-interactive-app/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,



Ford is gearing up to unveil the 2013 Fusion at the Detroit Auto Show, and the hype machine starts with a new app for the iPhone, iPad and Android devices.

After downloading the app, you can point the device's camera at any Ford logo - be it on a car or a screen - and it opens to reveal a 360-degree view of an artfully pixelated Fusion and the ability to drive the new sedan along a series of courses.

Between now and the big show in January, a new course, feature and video clip will be unlocked, but you can get your first taste of the app in the video after the break.

Ford teasing 2013 Fusion with new interactive app originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 13 Dec 2011 21:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2013 ford fusion2013 ford fusion hybridappdetroitdetroit 2012detroit auto showfordford fusionford fusion hybridfusion hybridnaiasTue, 13 Dec 2011 21:31:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20127517/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/12/13/ford-teasing-2013-fusion-hybrid-with-new-interactive-app/20127517/article-detail.xml 20127517 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/12/ford-fusion-app-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/12/ford-fusion-app-628.jpg -1 2