Carmakers getting closer to making vehicles into mobile devices showed off new apps at this week's International CES, demonstrating mobile tools like Facebook, Pandora and Yelp add-ons.
Mercedes-Benz, Audi and more displayed car apps that industry insiders say are a safe way for drivers to stay connected, USA TODAY reported.
Motorists can "check into places, look up where friends are, and navigate to them," Thomas Bock, the Silicon Valley-based lead engineer for the Mercedes-Benz Command Online system, told USA TODAY.
The Command Online platform allows drivers to look at a streamlined version of Facebook while on the road. In the limited version of the site, drivers won't be scrolling through a newsfeed, but they will be able to see friends' locations and contact information.
"You can navigate directly to [a friend's location], look up friends' phone numbers or addresses," Bock explained.
He said the app is safe to use, similar to accessing a phone directly in the car if it's connected to the system.
The Command Online system also includes apps for Yelp, TuneIn Radio and Pandora.
For other carmakers, Audi showcased a wireless in-car docking station that can charge a phone while you drive. The carmaker displayed a removable Audi/Android tablet with navigation, entertainment and other apps. The device can be used at home and then inserted into the car dashboard before a drive.
Ford showed off the new Sync system app Roximity, which is voice-activated and directs drivers to nearby restaurants and businesses.
Some of next year's Chevy cars and trucks will include the Chevrolet AppShop. Drivers can use the store to download audio, travel and diagnostic apps created especially for use in the car.
"Everybody wants to be connected," Bock told USA TODAY. "Where's the best restaurant? Where's the best hotel? We want to extend that to the car, so that the customer isn't using the phone, but using our platform, so we're making it safe, and they're also connected at the same time."
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