GoSmart automotive smartphone accessory is ironically named

Filed under: Safety, Technology, Videos

gosmart clip on a lexus wheel

GoSmart Clip in action – Click above to watch the video after the jump

In a world chock-full of bad ideas, the makers of the GoSmart Clip have found a way to stand out. The device is actually quite simple in form. It’s a plastic phone holder that clips onto many smartphones, and utilizes an elastic strap to adhere itself to the steering wheel. The device retails for $29.95, and it comes in both red and black.

A $30 price tag isn’t too horrible for any chunk of useful plastic, but this testament to distracted driving takes “smart” to an entirely different level. The device is obviously for those who like to play on their phone when they’re going 75 miles-per-hour, though the device’s FAQ page tells owners not to text and drive and recommends using Bluetooth when you’re on a call. That was responsible of them. And if you’re wondering if the device blocks the gauge cluster, we’re guessing the answer is almost always yes. But don’t worry, the FAQ says that if the gauges are blocked, simply move the device too 11 o’clock or 1 o’clock on the steering wheel. Problem solved, right?

With over 5,000 deaths per year attributed to distracted driving, the GoSmart seems like one of the worst accessories ever. Luckily, the company made a video to prove how sturdy the device is, and you can check it out by hitting the jump.

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GoSmart automotive smartphone accessory is ironically named originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 06 May 2011 15:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Video: Volkswagen developing Terminal Mode for full smartphone control through nav screen

Filed under: Etc., Technology, Videos, Volkswagen

Volkswagen's Terminal Mode

Volkswagen and Nokia’s Terminal Mode – Click above to watch video after the jump

Bluetooth connectivity is getting better all the time. No longer content with just connect your phone, new systems also allow you to wirelessly stream music to your car’s speakers. Volkswagen is working on a system which takes the idea of pairing a phone to your car, and brings it to a whole new level. The system, called Terminal Mode, allows VW’s touchscreen display to become an extension of the your smartphone – weather, GPS, music, phone and text messaging are right at your fingertips in a highly visible location.

Currently, the system is still under development and promises to get better as Volkswagen upgrades its infotainment screens. The current units use resistive touchscreens which can be slightly slower to respond compared with the capacitive units, which will make their way into VWs in the near future.

The Terminal Mode system opens up a potential Pandora’s box of opportunity. Developers could build a whole slew of apps designed for use in automobiles and phones could be built with this integration in mind. There are many pluses to this concept, however this easily falls into the distracted-driving discussion. How soon before we see anti-Facebooking-while-driving laws? Hop the jump to watch video of the system in action.

[Source: Engadget]

Continue reading Video: Volkswagen developing Terminal Mode for full smartphone control through nav screen

Video: Volkswagen developing Terminal Mode for full smartphone control through nav screen originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 30 Sep 2010 14:38:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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OnStar expands smartphone control to most 2011 General Motors vehicles [w/Video]

Filed under: Technology, GM

OnStar mobile applications – Click above for high-res image gallery

Early this year, General Motors’ OnStar telematics unit unveiled a smartphone application it had developed for the Chevrolet Volt that allows drivers to remotely manage the charging, locking and unlocking of their vehicle and pre-warm or cool it while plugged in. OnStar is now extending that basic concept to nearly the entire General Motors lineup for 2011.

One of the key hardware differences between OnStar and Ford’s Sync technology is that GM integrates cellular radios into the car while Ford relies on the driver’s existing phone connected via Bluetooth or a cable. This allows Ford to offer services like turn-by-turn directions without charging a subscription fee. OnStar has long struggled to find a way to convince customers to continue paying the subscription after the initial complimentary period expires.

The integrated cellular radio allows OnStar to offer services like remote starting, car location and lock/unlock from anywhere that can’t be done with Sync or just a short-range key fob. The applications will also provide access to vehicle data like tire pressures and oil levels, and allow owners to call an OnStar adviser or schedule service appointments with a dealer. The applications will be available for Androids and iPhones. You can check out a video after the jump.

Gallery: OnStar mobile applications

[Source: General Motors]

Continue reading OnStar expands smartphone control to most 2011 General Motors vehicles [w/Video]

OnStar expands smartphone control to most 2011 General Motors vehicles [w/Video] originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 22 Jul 2010 12:33:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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