SmartDeviceLink app developer program opens for Ford, Toyota automobiles

SmartDeviceLink allows a vehicle head device show apps operating on a connected phone on a dashboard LCD, with touchscreen controls. The automobile LCD shows a simplified user interface for the app, making it less distracting to utilize while driving. SmartDeviceLink also allows voice command of the apps through the vehicle to the linked phone.

Ford established SmartDeviceLink and made it open source. From the beginning of this year, Toyota revealed it would add SmartDeviceLink app integration in its automobiles. So far, the only vehicles supporting this app integration are Ford designs geared up with Sync 3.

Ford keeps in mind that Honda, Subaru and Mazda are thinking about adding the app integration technology in their automobiles.

The designer program provides documentation that lets designers add SmartDeviceLink compatibility to their apps, however automakers hold last word whether the apps are authorized for their vehicles.

A majority of automobiles now support Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, making it possible to control some functions of iOS or Android phones from an automobile’s dashboard user interface. However, SmartDeviceLink provides deeper integration with vehicles, giving apps the ability to check out on board details such as car speed, fuel level and other information.