New Hyundai Genesis Will Launch with Google Glass Capability - Too Soon?

Hyundai announced in a news release, "The way people interact with their cars is about to change. No longer is controlling a vehicle remotely through a gadget reserved for comic books, super hero movies or secret agents. Hyundai’s next generation of products, starting with the all-new 2015 Genesis, will allow owners to connect with their vehicle using wearable devices. Hyundai’s cloud-based Blue Link platform makes features like remote start and service information quickly accessible through new devices like Google Glass and others."

The question is, "Does pairing with Google Glass make a lot of sense at this point?" Robert Scoble, a top tech journalist, pronounced on Google + (somewhat ironic when you think about it), "Price is gonna matter a LOT. But I'm hearing they won't be able to get under $500 in 2014, so that means it's doomed. In 2014. When they get under $300 and have another revision or two? That's when the market really will show up. 2016, I say." So maybe Hyundai is going to be two years too early to the game.

Scoble added, "By 2020 I'm quite convinced this will be a big deal and there will be lots of competitors by then. So, if you make it about 2020, then it isn't doomed. If it's about beating the Apple iWatch in 2014? Yes, totally doomed."

Hyundai says wearable devices will help owners save time and add a new level of convenience by allowing remote interaction with the vehicle without the need to pull out their smartphone. Hyundai plans to launch a Blue Link Glassware application with the all-new 2015 Genesis sedan.

Small screens of wearable devices only allow a limited amount of information to be shown. As such, it is important to present useful and relevant information. On Google Glass, vehicle information will be presented as cards optimized for the Glass user interface. Push notifications will alert the owner when maintenance is due and allow quick service scheduling by enabling the wearer to initiate a call using the device’s built-in functionality. The application will also allow owners to access popular Blue Link features like remote start, remote door lock/unlock, vehicle finder, POI send-to-car powered by Google quickly using the device’s compact interface.

“We see wearables as a technology trend, expanding from fitness and health monitoring to broader applications,” Barry Ratzlaff, executive director, Customer Connect and Service Business Development, Hyundai Motor America, said in a release. Ratzlaff will demonstrate the new technology at the Consumer Electronics Show in Las Vegas when the interior of the Hyundai Genesis is unveiled – but just the interior.

“As a leader in connected car technology, we’re always exploring new ways to use technology to enhance the ownership experience for our customers. Wearables are a great way to extend the experience outside of the vehicle by leveraging these small screens to quickly access remote features and deliver timely vehicle information,” Ratzlaff added.

Wearable device apps will join Hyundai’s existing mobile app offerings designed to give Hyundai owners convenient access to Blue Link features and Car Care services. The all-new 2015 Genesis, with its suite of technology and connectivity features, will showcase leading-edge mobility and connectivity features, many of which are not offered in competing products. Hyundai plans to launch the vehicle with new infotainment and connectivity features powered by Blue Link.

“In 2013, we saw millions of commands sent to Hyundai vehicles from our Blue Link mobile application,” said Ratzlaff. “As new screens emerge, we see a real opportunity to expand our app strategy to provide added convenience for our owners.”

Mark Dipko, director of Corporate Planning and Strategy at Hyundai Motor America, said, “We feel this vehicle is a great product to showcase how the latest technology can enhance the ownership experience and give owners more time and convenience.”

Hyundai is no stranger to mobile application development. In 2010, the company launched the all-new Equus premium sedan with an innovative iPad application that effectively replaced the vehicle owner’s manual with a digital, interactive version. It was designed to be more convenient, immersive and save time.

Hyundai’s new Car Care app introduced this summer builds on this strategy by allowing Hyundai owners without Blue Link to schedule service, look up maintenance schedule, read quick reference guides and more. With the launch of Blue Link, Hyundai also launched its Blue Link app for iOS and Android platforms to give subscribers quick access to Blue Link features while on the go. The company sees mobile apps as a convenient way for owners to access information.