More proof that our cars will soon be wireless hotspots, came from Audi this week, which will deliver cars with 3G/WiFi systems later this year.
At Mobile World Congress in Barcelona, Spain, Qualcomm announced it is providing UMTS capability for more than one Audi 2010 A8 model to reach consumers this year, although there was no confirmation that the feature will be available in the U.S.
The fast 3G connection will permit a high speed pipe for navigation data, Google Earth photos, and online searches. The Audi system will also include hands free voice communication.
The UMTS service will allow simultaneous voice and data and it will convert to WiFi so car passengers can log on with their laptops, etc.
Connected 3G or 4G cars were shown all over the Consumer Electronics Show in January by Ford, Hughes Telematics, Visteon and others.
“Soon the must-have option for new cars won’t be a sunroof or leathers seats—it will be ultra high-speed, high-bandwidth connectivity” says the ng Connect Program—a prototype 4G car platform from Toyota and a handful of suppliers.
Ford is growing increasingly aggressive in this area and will offer USB modem or “air card” capability in its Sync radios this year.
Audi Shows 3G Car
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