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[iON introduces Speed Pro action camera for motor and marine sports [w/video]]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/01/12/ion-introduces-speed-pro-action-camera-for-motor-and-marine-spor/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/01/12/ion-introduces-speed-pro-action-camera-for-motor-and-marine-spor/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/01/12/ion-introduces-speed-pro-action-camera-for-motor-and-marine-spor/#commentsFiled under: , , ,



Meanwhile, back at the Consumer Electronics Show, iON camera announced its new Speed Pro camera that it says is specifically tailored to high-speed motor and marine sports. Retailing for $299, the Speed Pro offers up to a 170-degree viewing angle and mounts to affix it to cars, motorcycles and boats and other vehicles. Recording at 1080p the field-of-view drops to 127 degrees and the only frame rate option is 30 frames per second. At 960p and 30 fps you get the full 170 degrees, at 720p you can choose 30 fps or 60 fps for its 150-degree field-of-view. Still photos are captured at 5MP and remote control of the camera requires the purchase of the $99 Wi-Fi PODZ.

Alongside the Speed Pro, iOn also announced the $249 Air Pro 2 with an upgraded 14-megapixel sensor and 180-degree lens, and the $349 GPS-equipped iON Adventure with its lens on the side of the body, dual SD card recording and a motion-detecting sensor designed for adventure-seekers that move a little more slowly.

Samples of Speed Pro footage can be found in the two videos below that feature World Rally Championship driver Petter Solberg. Closer to home, you can see them in operation if you visit the Miller Motorsports Park in Salt Lake City, Utah where the iON has been named the exclusive action camera supplier. The press release below lays it all out in words.

Continue reading iON introduces Speed Pro action camera for motor and marine sports [w/video]

iON introduces Speed Pro action camera for motor and marine sports [w/video] originally appeared on Autoblog on Sat, 12 Jan 2013 10:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>action cameracameracesces 2013consumer electronics chowionion speed propetter solbergpov cameraspeed proSat, 12 Jan 2013 10:58:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20422912/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/01/12/ion-introduces-speed-pro-action-camera-for-motor-and-marine-spor/20422912/article-detail.xml 20422912 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/01/ionspeedpro_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/01/ionspeedpro.jpg <![CDATA[Logic3 classes up headphones with Prancing Horse]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/01/11/logic3-classes-up-headphones-with-prancing-horse/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/01/11/logic3-classes-up-headphones-with-prancing-horse/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/01/11/logic3-classes-up-headphones-with-prancing-horse/#commentsFiled under: , ,



White earphones too bland for you? Black too slow? Your otherwise high-end cans just not expensive enough? Logic3 hopes to remedy your plight with its new line of Ferrari-branded earphones and headphones.

Logic3's Cavallino line is intended for the well-heeled audio enthusiast with aluminum housings covered in hand-stitched, lambskin leather. The Scuderia collection is also built with aluminum but instead of leather, the earphones' colors closely match those of the Ferrari F1 team. Yellow badges and aluminum grilles complete the look.

Both lines also include over-the-ear headphones and Bluetooth compatible dock station speakers. The Scuderia line headphones mimic the look of hearing protection worn by F1 pit crews.

In Ferrari's online store, Scuderia earphones are $166. Cavallino shoppers will pay between $220 and $249 for earphones. Performance specs look to be the same between the different lines as well as price levels. Headphones start at $334 and cap out at $441 in the Scuderia lineup while entry into the Cavallino headphones is $389 and goes up to $481. Sound performance is the same as that for the lower-end lineup.

Ferrari also lent its brand to three speaker dock models. A Scuderia-level speaker without Bluetooth is $667 and $835 with the wireless technology. The Cavallino model gets better performance specs, a different looking shell and $1,017 price tag.

Logic3 classes up headphones with Prancing Horse originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 11 Jan 2013 16:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>audiocesces 2013designear budsearphonesferrariferrari ear budsferrari headphonesheadphoneslogic3Fri, 11 Jan 2013 16:59:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20424370/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/01/11/logic3-classes-up-headphones-with-prancing-horse/20424370/article-detail.xml 20424370 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/01/ferrari-brand-earphones-ces2013_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/01/ferrari-brand-earphones-ces2013.jpg <![CDATA[Audi takes cars that park themselves to a whole new level]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/01/11/audi-takes-cars-that-park-themselves-to-a-whole-new-level/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/01/11/audi-takes-cars-that-park-themselves-to-a-whole-new-level/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/01/11/audi-takes-cars-that-park-themselves-to-a-whole-new-level/#commentsFiled under: , , ,



Autonomous cars are impressive displays of in-car technology, but what exactly would the benefit of such systems be for the average driver? Audi has answered that question by showing off its Piloted Parking system for the Audi Connect at CES 2013.

Installed on this Audi A7, Piloted Parking allows a driver to drop themselves off and have the car autonomously drive away on its own and find its own parking spot. The car can then later be retrieved by "calling" it back with a specially designed smartphone app. We'd be lying if we said this didn't bring back memories of Michael Knight summoning KITT with his wristwatch. The most impressive part of this car might be the fact that the car is fully autonomous but doesn't have any obvious sensors or monitors on the exterior of the car like many other self-driving cars have.

Check out a video of the this innovative technology in action after the jump.

Continue reading Audi takes cars that park themselves to a whole new level

Audi takes cars that park themselves to a whole new level originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 11 Jan 2013 10:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>a7audiaudi connectaudi piloted parkingautonomous parkingautonomous vehiclescesces 2013consumer electronics showkittFri, 11 Jan 2013 10:01:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20425435/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/01/11/audi-takes-cars-that-park-themselves-to-a-whole-new-level/20425435/article-detail.xml 20425435 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/01/audi-piloted-driving_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/01/audi-piloted-driving.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[<em>Wired</em>: Ford making Sync AppLink open source, free for any automaker to use]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/01/09/wired-ford-making-sync-applink-open-source-free-for-a/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/01/09/wired-ford-making-sync-applink-open-source-free-for-a/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/01/09/wired-ford-making-sync-applink-open-source-free-for-a/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Ford Sync AppLink

Automakers aren't necessarily known for their sharing skills unless some sort of mutual agreement is in place, but it seems that Ford is looking to create a universal architecture based on its Sync AppLink on which other companies (including rival automakers) can run in-car apps free of charge. With the 2013 Consumer Electronics Show going on, Wired sat down with Ford's Doug VanDagens, director of connected services, who talked about what such a tech-sharing plan could do for Ford and the industry.

Giving up some of the technology behind Sync AppLink would obviously put Ford in a place to become a bigger name in cabin tech, but on the grander scheme of things, it could help bring more apps to users. Currently, each automaker uses its own technologies, which means that creating an app for each system would be expensive and time consuming - a reason why current in-car apps are limited to bigger names like Pandora and iHeart Radio. Ford's plan would not only make it easier for app developers and automakers, it would also open the door for more aftermarket head units to improve infotainment capabilities as well.

When asked by Autoblog, a Ford rep at CES said that while other automakers could potentially use their open-source software, Ford didn't necessarily expect it to happen.

To get the full boatload of details about Ford's proposed tech-sharing plan, head on over to Wired.

Wired: Ford making Sync AppLink open source, free for any automaker to use originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 09 Jan 2013 09:14:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2013 ces2013 consumer electronics showcesfordford syncford sync applinkinfotainmentsyncsync applinktechnology sharingWed, 09 Jan 2013 09:14:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20421270/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/01/09/wired-ford-making-sync-applink-open-source-free-for-a/20421270/article-detail.xml 20421270 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/12/applink-630_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/12/applink-630.jpg <![CDATA[Toyota and Lexus show off advanced safety research vehicle [w/video]]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/01/08/toyota-and-lexus-show-off-advanced-safety-research-vehicle-w-vi/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/01/08/toyota-and-lexus-show-off-advanced-safety-research-vehicle-w-vi/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/01/08/toyota-and-lexus-show-off-advanced-safety-research-vehicle-w-vi/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , ,

Lexus' advanced safety research vehicle - self-driving LS

While Google and Audi explore the possibilities of autonomous vehicles, Toyota and its Lexus division are studying the intermediate step of vehicles equipped with a deep suite of technology that help drivers make the best decisions. Introduced at this week's Consumer Electronics Show in Las Vegas, the Lexus advanced safety research vehicle is an LS sedan fitted with three high-def color cameras to detect objects up to almost 500 feet away, 360-degree Light Detection and Ranging (LIDAR) lasers that can detect objects up to 220 feet away, three radar units to keep track of other vehicles at intersections, a precision odometer on the rear wheel, GPS that estimates orientation and an accelerometer.

Currently testing at a purpose-built 8.6 acre urban testing ground at the Higashi-Fuji Technical Center in Susono, Japan the Toyota research vehicle is being used to study how to make better drivers, as well as figuring out how to reduce crashes as the industry's journey through passive and active safety systems progresses. In the event of a crash, new rescue systems are also being tested.

Further investment is being put into the Intelligent Transportation System (ITS) that would use shortwave signals to harness information from the car and from other vehicles on the road, as well as roadside infrastructure and even pedestrians. Toyota reasons it could then build a picture of interactions and, for instance, alert the driver to a potential collision at a blind intersection.

Toyota's says its research "could lead to a fully autonomous car in the future," but for now, the point is that "a driverless car is just a part of the story. Our vision is a car equipped with an intelligent, always-attentive co-pilot whose skills contribute to safer driving." Improving driver education in this country would probably be a lot cheaper, but hey, we're for anything that helps make the roads safer places to be. There's plenty more tech-speak in the video and press release below.

Continue reading Toyota and Lexus show off advanced safety research vehicle [w/video]

Toyota and Lexus show off advanced safety research vehicle [w/video] originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 08 Jan 2013 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2013 lexus lsautonomouscesces 2013lexuslexus advanced safety research vehiclelssafetyself-driving cartechnologytoyotavideovideosyoutubeTue, 08 Jan 2013 18:00:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20421000/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/01/08/toyota-and-lexus-show-off-advanced-safety-research-vehicle-w-vi/20421000/article-detail.xml 20421000 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/01/toyotaautonomousces_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/01/toyotaautonomousces.jpg <![CDATA[Ford announces app developer program]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/01/08/ford-announces-app-developer-program/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/01/08/ford-announces-app-developer-program/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/01/08/ford-announces-app-developer-program/#commentsFiled under: , ,



Ford used the occasion of CES to announce that the Ford Developer Program, the automaker's own app developer program, would be open to anyone wanting to participate. Ford will provide its software developer kit to registered software writers who will then have access to code libraries and documentation to allow them to write apps to "enable two-way communication between mobile apps" and Sync-equipped Ford vehicles "including voice commands from the driver."

Several apps have already been developed by a select group of beta-testing code-crunchers. Some of the more interesting ones include the Amazon Cloud Player that will allow users to access music stored in Amazon's cloud, USA Today which will provide audio versions of the national newspaper, and BeCouply, a new app that gives entertainment suggestions to couples looking for date ideas.

Got an idea for an app but no idea how to write it? Ford has teamed with Michigan-based jacAPPS to be the "recommended mobile app development house." Read the entire press release below.

Continue reading Ford announces app developer program

Ford announces app developer program originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 08 Jan 2013 15:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>app developmentCESces 2013consumer electronics show 2013fordmobile appssoftware development kitsyncTue, 08 Jan 2013 15:30:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20420596/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/01/08/ford-announces-app-developer-program/20420596/article-detail.xml 20420596 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/01/ford-applink-ces-2013_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/01/ford-applink-ces-2013.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[Chrysler Uconnect gets dealer-activated navigation, new infotainment features]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/01/07/chrysler-uconnect-gets-dealer-activated-navigation-new-infotain/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/01/07/chrysler-uconnect-gets-dealer-activated-navigation-new-infotain/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/01/07/chrysler-uconnect-gets-dealer-activated-navigation-new-infotain/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,



Get in just about any mid-level Chrysler product these days, and you'll see a touchscreen head unit that would be perfect for a navigation system. The only thing is that some of these cars equipped with the head unit for Chrysler's Uconnect infotainment system were not optioned up with navigation at the time of purchase, leaving drivers looking for turn-by-turn directions relying on either an aftermarket nav system or a smartphone. Starting on select new Chrysler products, however, customers with Uconnect will now be able to upgrade to navigation as a dealer-activated option.

Announced at the 2013 Consumer Electronics Show, this new element of Uconnect will allow owners to have an in-dash navigation system installed quickly and easily; Chrysler said that this will be a major benefit for used-car buyers. Unfortunately, it doesn't sound like this system will be retroactive on previous Uconnect head units, but it will launch this year on the 2013 Ram 1500, 2013 SRT Viper and the 2014 Fiat 500L. Chrysler did not announce the expected MSRP to have dealers activate the navigation capabilities.

Another infotainment option for Chrysler buyers is the Uconnect Access system that can allow WiFi, voice text messaging, emergency assistance, remote vehicle operation (such as starting the engine or locking/unlocking the doors) and limited POI searches using Bing. Also introduced at CES, the new Uconnect Access via Mobile system builds on this by allowing users to add in-car apps such as iHeart Radio, Pandora and Slacker by connecting to the system via a smartphone. This system will first be offered on the 2013 Ram and Viper.

For more information about Chrysler's Uconnect system announced at CES, check out the press release posted after the jump.

Continue reading Chrysler Uconnect gets dealer-activated navigation, new infotainment features

Chrysler Uconnect gets dealer-activated navigation, new infotainment features originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 07 Jan 2013 00:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2013 ces2013 consumer electronics showceschryslerconsumer electronics showfiatramsrtuconnectuconnect accessuconnect access via mobileuconnect navigationMon, 07 Jan 2013 00:01:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20417510/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/01/07/chrysler-uconnect-gets-dealer-activated-navigation-new-infotain/20417510/article-detail.xml 20417510 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/01/chrysler-uconnect-ces_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/01/chrysler-uconnect-ces.jpg <![CDATA[Translogic finishes CES by going solo]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/02/translogic-finishes-ces-by-going-solo/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/02/translogic-finishes-ces-by-going-solo/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/02/translogic-finishes-ces-by-going-solo/#commentsFiled under:

Translogic at CES, part 2

Our sister site Translogic follows up on its Consumer Electronics Show coverage with a new episode this week. This one is a smorgasbord of automotive tech, including a spin on the Solowheel, a mobility device that's sort of like half a Segway.

The Translogic crew also talks to the chief technology officer at Panasonic, who draws some interesting comparisons between electric cars and refrigerators. Audi shows off a new gesture-based, heads-up display. Kia announces a new version of its UVO telematics system and shows it off in some concepts.

Click past the jump to watch the whole episode.

Continue reading Translogic finishes CES by going solo

Translogic finishes CES by going solo originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 02 Feb 2012 18:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>aol autosaudicesces 2012consumer electronics showkiapanasonicsolowheeltranslogicuvoThu, 02 Feb 2012 18:29:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20160987/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/02/02/translogic-finishes-ces-by-going-solo/20160987/article-detail.xml 20160987 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/02/translogic-ces-2-opt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/02/translogic-ces-2-opt.jpg <![CDATA[Translogic hangs out with Daimler's Zetsche and Ford's Mulally at CES]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/28/translogic-hangs-out-with-daimlers-zetsche-and-fords-mulally-a/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/28/translogic-hangs-out-with-daimlers-zetsche-and-fords-mulally-a/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/28/translogic-hangs-out-with-daimlers-zetsche-and-fords-mulally-a/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Translogic at CES

Usually our sister publication Translogic is out putting futuristic transportation hardware through the paces or talking to geeks who are trying to reimagine the very infrastructure of our world. But this week, the show has a decidedly more conventional subject: Interviews with Daimler CEO Dieter Zetsche and Ford CEO Alan Mulally.

Both of these automotive bigwigs were wandering the halls of the Consumer Electronics Show earlier this month (Zetsche was the keynote speaker, a job Mulally performed two years ago), which is where Translogic caught up with them for a chat and demonstration of their CES wares. Zetsche showed off a new gesture-based in-car interface, as well as some new active safety technology for Mercedes-Benz. Mulally plugged Ford's new hybrid and plug-in hybrid Fusion, as well as showing off the Ford Evos concept's fancy infotainment system. Give it a watch after the jump.

Continue reading Translogic hangs out with Daimler's Zetsche and Ford's Mulally at CES

Translogic hangs out with Daimler's Zetsche and Ford's Mulally at CES originally appeared on Autoblog on Sat, 28 Jan 2012 14:04:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>alan mulallycesces 2012consumer electronics showdaimlerdieter zetschefordinfotainmentmercedes-benzmulallytelematicstranslogicvideoSat, 28 Jan 2012 14:04:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20156559/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/01/28/translogic-hangs-out-with-daimlers-zetsche-and-fords-mulally-a/20156559/article-detail.xml 20156559 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/01/translogic-ceo-interviews-opt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/01/translogic-ceo-interviews-opt.jpg <![CDATA[Sync Applink gets new NPR app, Destinations hands-on]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/20/sync-applink-gets-new-npr-app-destinations-hands-on/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/20/sync-applink-gets-new-npr-app-destinations-hands-on/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/20/sync-applink-gets-new-npr-app-destinations-hands-on/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Ford Applink

Our friends at Engadget got up close and cozy with the new Ford Sync Applink interface at CES 2012. Ford has put plenty of time ironing out some of the wrinkles in the voice-command system, and the company's work has paid off. Sync Applink is designed to allow users to access certain applications on their compatible smartphones without ever having to take their hands from the wheel. It sounds nice in theory, but Ford has had its fair share of issues getting the technology to produce desired results. Judging by the quick video, that's a thing of the past.

Ford demonstrated how the revised system easily pulls up the new NPR app and how users can easily shuffle through the application's various features. The app even lets users chose any NPR station in the country. How's that for snazzy?

Click past the jump to see Applink do its thing.

Continue reading Sync Applink gets new NPR app, Destinations hands-on

Sync Applink gets new NPR app, Destinations hands-on originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 20 Jan 2012 08:33:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>applinkcesces 2012fordford applinksyncsync applinkFri, 20 Jan 2012 08:33:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20151207/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/01/20/sync-applink-gets-new-npr-app-destinations-hands-on/20151207/article-detail.xml 20151207 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/01/ford-applink-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/01/ford-applink-628.jpg <![CDATA[Android integration comes to your car's mirror [w/video]]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/19/android-integration-comes-to-your-cars-mirror-w-video/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/19/android-integration-comes-to-your-cars-mirror-w-video/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/19/android-integration-comes-to-your-cars-mirror-w-video/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Android rear-view mirror

Just when you thought manufacturers couldn't cram any more technology into a vehicle, CES rolls through Las Vegas to show off all-new levels of car-bound gadgetry. A company by the name of Rydeen hopes to produce a new range of stereo head units that run the Android operating system. The double-DIN units partner up with a touch-screen enabled rear-view mirror serve up all of the relevant applications we've come to know and love from our Android devices. Currently, Rydeen says it's just using the touchscreen rear-view mirrors as research tools, though a production version may hit the market by 2013.

That version will likely boast a more simple interface that should be easier for drivers to use without killing everyone else on the road. We're big fans of that plan, though we have to wonder about the viability of putting the touch screen in the rear-view mirror to begin with. Here's hoping Rydeen will turn to a traditional dash-mounted system in the future. Hit the jump to check out a video of the mirror for yourself.

Continue reading Android integration comes to your car's mirror [w/video]

Android integration comes to your car's mirror [w/video] originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 19 Jan 2012 10:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>androidandroid rear view mirrorcesces 2012las vegasrear view mirrorrydeentechThu, 19 Jan 2012 10:58:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20150506/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/01/19/android-integration-comes-to-your-cars-mirror-w-video/20150506/article-detail.xml 20150506 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/01/android-mirror-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/01/android-mirror-628.jpg <![CDATA[Aha Radio coming to 2013 Subaru BRZ]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/18/aha-radio-coming-to-2013-subaru-brz/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/18/aha-radio-coming-to-2013-subaru-brz/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/18/aha-radio-coming-to-2013-subaru-brz/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

Aha Radio in the Subaru BRZ

Subaru and Honda have shacked up with Aha Radio to bring streaming Internet tunes to your vehicle's cabin. According to Engadget, the system is expected to show up as an option on the 2013 Subaru BRZ. Users will need to have the Aha Radio app installed on their iOS or Android smartphone. The system then uses the device's data connection to stream the application straight into the head unit via Bluetooth or a USB connection. Information like pre-selected favorites and station preferences will be displayed and accessible via the built-in touchscreen interface.

Drivers will also be able to command the app using steering-wheel mounted controls, which is always a plus. Engadget says the user interface is workable enough for daily life. The site was able to get a brief data connection while on the floor at CES - just long enough to flip though a few stations and make a quick video. Hit the jump to check it out for yourself.

Continue reading Aha Radio coming to 2013 Subaru BRZ

Aha Radio coming to 2013 Subaru BRZ originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 18 Jan 2012 18:41:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2013 subaru brzahaaha radiobrzcesces 2012connectivityinfotainmentinternet radiostreaming internet radiosubarusubaru brzvideoWed, 18 Jan 2012 18:41:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20151058/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/01/18/aha-radio-coming-to-2013-subaru-brz/20151058/article-detail.xml 20151058 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/01/aha-radio-subaru-brz-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/01/aha-radio-subaru-brz-628.jpg <![CDATA[We can't show you the most impressive infotainment system at CES]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/17/we-cant-show-you-the-most-impressive-infotainment-system-at-ces/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/17/we-cant-show-you-the-most-impressive-infotainment-system-at-ces/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/17/we-cant-show-you-the-most-impressive-infotainment-system-at-ces/#commentsFiled under: , , ,



The only thing we can show you is the image above. No video, no additional pics, just that.

Tucked away in the way-way-back of the South Hall at CES is Garmin's private meeting room. One section holds the company's current automotive, nautical and aviation systems, while the other is an exhibition of the future.

We sampled Garmin's new "Everest" setup, which includes one-shot voice commands and the ability to buy tracks from Amazon while you're listening to them over FM radio. You'll see it in cars later this year. We also sampled their "In2it" eight-way rotary controller (think a tech'd-out iDrive, MMI or COMAND knob), complete with proximity sensors and configurable buttons. Garmin is pitching it to OEMs right now.

But the system that blew our mind is dubbed K2. And the only thing we can show you is the image above. No video, no additional pics, just that.

Continue reading We can't show you the most impressive infotainment system at CES

We can't show you the most impressive infotainment system at CES originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 17 Jan 2012 14:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cesces 2012garmingarmin k2k2Tue, 17 Jan 2012 14:30:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20148689/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/01/17/we-cant-show-you-the-most-impressive-infotainment-system-at-ces/20148689/article-detail.xml 20148689 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/01/garmin-k2-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/01/garmin-k2-628.jpg <![CDATA[Mercedes boss Zetsche offends Cubans with Che Guevara joke]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/17/mercedes-boss-zetsche-offends-cubans-with-che-guevara-joke/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/17/mercedes-boss-zetsche-offends-cubans-with-che-guevara-joke/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/17/mercedes-boss-zetsche-offends-cubans-with-che-guevara-joke/#commentsFiled under: , , ,



For every college student with a Che Guevara poster on their dorm room walls and a copy of Motorcycle Diaries on their shelves, there are plenty of Americans who remember the communist leader as a cold-blooded killer. That's the problem with revolutionaries; they're nothing if not divisive. Mercedes-Benz recently received a first-hand lesson in just how polarizing Guevara himself can be after the company used a massive image of the leader in the company's presentation on car sharing at CES.

Dieter Zetsche, Daimler CEO, said, "Some colleagues still think that car-sharing borders on communism, but if this is a revolution, then 'Viva la revolucion!'."

The Guevara image then splayed across the one-story screen behind the executive, complete with a Mercedes-Benz three-pointed star on his trademark beret. Let the cringing begin.

It didn't take long for Cuban exiles in Florida to descend on the Mercedes-Benz consumer site with promises of boycotts and shock at the company's insensitivity. It does seem amazingly short-sighted for a German luxury manufacturer to embrace the image of a leader who happily shunned the niceties of the upper class for a rifle.

Mercedes boss Zetsche offends Cubans with Che Guevara joke originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 17 Jan 2012 09:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cesces 2012che guevaraconsumer electronics showdaimlerdieter zetscheguevaramercedes-benzviva la revolucionzetscheTue, 17 Jan 2012 09:57:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20150079/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/01/17/mercedes-boss-zetsche-offends-cubans-with-che-guevara-joke/20150079/article-detail.xml 20150079 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/01/che-at-ces-628-1326808292_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/01/che-at-ces-628-1326808292.jpg <![CDATA[Gracenote MoodGrid could be in cars by year's end]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/16/gracenote-moodgrid-could-be-in-cars-by-years-end/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/16/gracenote-moodgrid-could-be-in-cars-by-years-end/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/16/gracenote-moodgrid-could-be-in-cars-by-years-end/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Gracenote MoodGrid

Last year at IFA, we had a chance to check out a beta version of Gracenote's MoodGrid, an Android tablet app that automatically creates a music playlist using a 10x10 grid with Positive, Energentic, Calm and Dark criteria placed on each axis. Select a place on the graph and it automatically creates a playlist based on your mood. Now, the app has been scaled down and ported into a Garmin head unit, which means MoodGrid could be coming to a major OEM as soon as sometime this year.

As shown at CES, the updated MoodGrid app has been halved, with a five-by-five display with the same four musical dispositions. Based on where you place the dot, it dials up the tunes to suit your mood, utilizing the tracks on your iPhone, iPod or Android device. Another tablet-based version was on hand that can also tap into subscription music services like Spotify, Rdio and MOG, making music discovery even more robust. Check out our brief hands-on video after the break.

Continue reading Gracenote MoodGrid could be in cars by year's end

Gracenote MoodGrid could be in cars by year's end originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 16 Jan 2012 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>androidcesces 2012garmingracenotegracenote moodgridifainfotainmentinternationale funkausstellung berlinmoodgridvideoMon, 16 Jan 2012 15:00:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20148671/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/01/16/gracenote-moodgrid-could-be-in-cars-by-years-end/20148671/article-detail.xml 20148671 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/01/moodgrid-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/01/moodgrid-628.jpg <![CDATA[Audi accidentally(?) previews 2013 A3 design at CES]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/13/audi-accidentally-previews-2013-a3-design-at-ces/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/13/audi-accidentally-previews-2013-a3-design-at-ces/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/13/audi-accidentally-previews-2013-a3-design-at-ces/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

.

Audi may have accidentally let slip the exterior design of its upcoming 2013 A3.The German automaker set about showing off the hatchback's cabin with a static display at Las Vegas' CES ahead of the vehicle's expected unveiling at the 2012 Geneva Motor Show. The display gives the world a sense of what to expect from the luxury compact's front seats, center console and dash, which features a stand-alone LCD display that rises out from above the instrument panel's center air vents. Like other Audi displays, the screen features various vehicle menus, including two that show off the full exterior of the three-door model.

Judging from these two quick glimpses at the hatchback, the three-door will feature a new, more aggressive face. From the looks of things, buyers can expect to continue to find a large, signature Audi single-frame grille flanked by more purposeful headlights and sporty air intakes set low int he front fascia. Head over to Audiboost.com for a closer look at the vehicle inside and out. Don't get too attached to what you see, however. Past reports have suggested the vehicle will only debut as a sedan here in the States.

Audi accidentally(?) previews 2013 A3 design at CES originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 13 Jan 2012 14:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2013 audi a3a3audiaudi a3audi mmicesces 2012consumer electronics showmmiFri, 13 Jan 2012 14:02:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20148093/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/01/13/audi-accidentally-previews-2013-a3-design-at-ces/20148093/article-detail.xml 20148093 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/01/audi-a3-exterior-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/01/audi-a3-exterior-628.jpg <![CDATA[QNX guts a Porsche 911 to show off next-gen infotainment]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/12/qnx-guts-a-porsche-911-to-show-off-next-gen-infotainment/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/12/qnx-guts-a-porsche-911-to-show-off-next-gen-infotainment/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/12/qnx-guts-a-porsche-911-to-show-off-next-gen-infotainment/#commentsFiled under: , ,



QNX - now owned by Blackberry - ripped the guts out of a 997 Porsche 911 Cabrio to showcase its latest blend of infotainment, navigation and connectivity solutions. If nothing else, it's one of the better looking interfaces we found at CES.

The system integrates the standard music, nav and telephony functionality with one-touch Bluetooth pairing over NFC, a sweet-sounding VOIP system and the potential - in theory, at least - to run Android apps thanks to its Blackberry Playbook roots. Get a feel for it in the video after the break.

Continue reading QNX guts a Porsche 911 to show off next-gen infotainment

QNX guts a Porsche 911 to show off next-gen infotainment originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 12 Jan 2012 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cesces 2012qnxThu, 12 Jan 2012 19:00:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20146696/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/01/12/qnx-guts-a-porsche-911-to-show-off-next-gen-infotainment/20146696/article-detail.xml 20146696 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/01/inside-device-control-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/01/inside-device-control-628.jpg <![CDATA[Mercedes-Benz DICE concept brings gesture controls to the cockpit [w/video]]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/12/mercedes-benz-dice-concept-brings-gesture-controls-to-the-cockpi/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/12/mercedes-benz-dice-concept-brings-gesture-controls-to-the-cockpi/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/12/mercedes-benz-dice-concept-brings-gesture-controls-to-the-cockpi/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,



Not to be outdone by its competitors from Ingolstadt, Mercedes-Benz brought out its own vision of the future of interiors, complete with augmented reality, a fully customizable dashboard and gesture-based controls. There's not a knob or button to be found...

The video after the jump demonstrates the Dynamic & Intuitive Control Experience (DICE) far better than words can convey, but the basic elements are these: a series of proximity sensors detect hand motions across the interior, allowing you to scroll, select and control a variety of functions. The highlights include the ability to get information about the businesses and sights around you, connect with friends nearby and control all the standard music and navigation functionality you'd expect in a high-end ride. But it's not without its issues.

The major problem is there's no way for the system to detect if you're motioning or just have your hand out, and making matters worse is the poor definition of exactly where your hands and arms should be to take control of specific elements. But Mercedes has time to work out the kinks - one exec admitted that a production version is at least 20 years out.

Continue reading Mercedes-Benz DICE concept brings gesture controls to the cockpit [w/video]

Mercedes-Benz DICE concept brings gesture controls to the cockpit [w/video] originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 12 Jan 2012 17:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cesces 2012diceDynamic Intuitive Control ExperiencemercedesMercedes Benzmercedes-benzvideoThu, 12 Jan 2012 17:01:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20146705/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/01/12/mercedes-benz-dice-concept-brings-gesture-controls-to-the-cockpi/20146705/article-detail.xml 20146705 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/01/mb-dice-628-opt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/01/mb-dice-628-opt.jpg -1 2