Automotive communication began with the simple radio, which allowed the driver to listen but not respond. Then came car phones, which finally allowed two-way communication between those in and out of the car but were so bulky and expensive that only the very rich in large luxury vehicles could afford them. Those early devices have evolved into the following in-car technologies that even appear in entry-level models.

Merging the Smartphone

With the smartphone reigning as everyone’s favorite communication tool, it makes sense that an infotainment system would first merge that device. Bluetooth makes that possible with practically any phone because the technology is not specific to any phone brand. This technology allows for calling, audio streaming, and voice commands.

Thanks to Apple CarPlay® or Android Auto™, which is available wirelessly for either iPhones or Android devices, respectively, your phone’s operating system is duplicated on the dashboard touchscreen, encouraging you to swipe pages and tap on icons to activate apps. A safer alternative to using your hands, which should remain on the wheel, is to speak your commands to call family and friends, play music, or make restaurant reservations.

Connected Navigation

Navigation that is built into the infotainment system enables even the directionally challenged to find their way to any destination through turn-by-turn visual and audio directions. However, early GPS devices became less accurate as time passed because they could not be updated without taking your vehicle to the dealer.

Fortunately, because many infotainment systems are now connected to the Internet, navigation maps and operating system updates happen continuously and unobtrusively in the background. Built-in maps become just as accurate as their smartphone counterparts. In addition, navigation directions now consider the latest traffic information, road closures, and accident reports to guide you around trouble spots when giving directions.

For owners of or those responsible for fleets, this technology can reveal the location of fleet vehicles at any time, the routes they traverse during the work day, and whether they are speeding or violating any traffic laws. An electronic fence can be set up to warn the company if a car passes that fence. The company monitor can shut off the engine to a connected vehicle if needed.

Communicating Cars

Car-to-car communication enables your auto to communicate with other vehicles over the airwaves for information and advice. For example, your car could ask others up ahead if an accident has been cleared, whether it’s raining, or what to do about an engine noise that’s just developed. Similarly, other vehicles behind you can ask yours about current road conditions and whether they should take a less congested route.

Biometric Technology

Biometric technology, which is currently being perfected, relies on sensors to monitor faces, eyes, or fingerprints to allow access to the vehicle. Rather than dealing with keys, putting your thumb on the handle locks, unlocking doors, or pushing the Start button runs the engine. You may also be able to sit in the driver’s seat and have the seat position, climate control, and mirror settings automatically adjust to your personal preferences.

Check out all the technology at your local dealers with the Beach Boulevard of Cars association today.