AT&T Spearheads the Future of the Connected Car

The automobile resulted from the work of several inventors who were determined to create a reliable means of transportation for the world’s inhabitants. In a period that lasted more than a century, the automobile underwent many transformations from a product that appeared to be more like a carriage to the sleek cars of today which offer integrated telematics to infotainment, 4G connectivity and a host of  other services. AT&T is spearheading innovation through collaborations with Qualcomm, QuickPlay and Red Bend. These companies provide crucial platforms to manufacturers, resulting in consumers more readily accessing next-generation automobiles—connected cars that perform unimaginable tasks within the ever-evolving world of technology.

 

The History of the Automobile

As early as 1769, a steam vehicle was developed in France. Though the first commercially made automobile became available in around 1885 in Germany, mass production of these engine-powered vehicles did not begin in America until decades later. These vehicles were merely archetypes when compared to modern cars. The original versions had a platform with wheels and an engine.  Eventually lights were added and engines were covered. Windscreens and other additional features resulted in a sleeker design.

 

From around the mid 20^th century and onwards, automakers focused on a more fine-tuned design that was geared towards eco-friendly, affordable, comfortable and safe cars. Seat belts and exhaust emission controls among other features became standard aspects of an automobile’s design. But the car’s move toward the future did not stop there.

 

Carro di Cugnot – France 1769

 

As new technology emerged, Americans sought cars that were compatible with the Internet, apps and other developments. Manufacturers became keen in their attempts to create next-generation cars.  In essence, the goal for many manufacturers and business leaders is to develop smarter products—cars that take advantage of telematics by accessing apps, the cloud, Wi-Fi, and a range of technologies.

 

It is this goal that AT&T shares. Through joint developments with Qualcomm, Quickplay and Red Bend, AT&T seeks to help manufacturers create cars that users control remotely, connect to multiple devices and accessing useful apps. Some 2015 Chevrolet models for instance will boast built-in 4G LTE technology via AT&T.

 

AT&T Drive Studio

AT&T has long since recognized the value of investing in the automotive industry, particularly as it relates to initiatives which focus on developing connected cars. Drive Studio is a hub of innovation spread across 5,000 square feet in Atlanta—a platform that invites automotive leaders to collaborate in order to steer the future of tomorrow’s smartest cars.

 

Recently, AT&T brought three new players in the mix in order to encourage manufactures who want to transition into the world of connected vehicles. But what role will each company play in the connected car revolution?

 

 

Qualcomm

In January of this year, Qualcomm announced its expansion within the automotive industry via Snapdragon Automotive Solutions. This chip provider is responsible for creating powerful chips that run world-class smartphones and tablets that will bring its expertise to the world of smart, connected cars.

 

Snapdragon Automotive Solutions provide processor chips that are especially created to meet the needs of the automotive industry. The Qualcomm Snapdragon 602A processor will offer manufacturers infotainment solutions that improve the experience of customers who own cars. Automotive chips from Qualcomm will provide Internet streaming, remote control and other telematics-based services to automobile owners.

 

QuickPlay Media

AT&T chose QuickPlay, a leader in video services to add new developments to its Drive Studio initiative. This company provides an OpenVideo platform which allows manufacturers and other leaders in the automotive industry to create their own built-in video services.

 

Some 2015 Chevrolet models for instance will boast built-in 4G LTE technology via AT&T.

 

QuickPlay’s OpenVideo will be a crucial component of Drive Studio since it allows AT&T to deliver in-vehicle infotainment which includes both “Live Linear TV channels” and Video on Demand (VoD) content. In addition, automakers will have access to Digital Rights Management (DMR), multi-language support and other solutions.

 

Red Bend

Through collaboration with Red Bend Solutions, the Drive Studio will be able to provide solutions in regards to the management of car software. Red Bend, a leader in automotive software management, will be able to provide management solutions related to in-vehicle software and applications including over-the-air (OTA) updates via AT&T’s cloud service. This will reduce the cost and time which Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs) spend in managing in-vehicle software in an increasingly competitive automotive industry.

 

In the past, a connected car was restricted to the world of science fiction. However, AT&T’s collaboration with Qualcomm, QuickPlay and Red Bend through initiatives like Drive Studio is bringing smart cars into the realm of reality. These companies are creating platforms which enable automakers to develop smarter cars by using the latest developments in telematics including Qualcomm processor chips, in-vehicle software management tools and video streaming platforms.

 

AT&T Spearheads the Future of the Connected Car