Saab intros Android-based IQon infotainment system
updated 11:40 pm EST, Tue March 1, 2011
Company invites devs to create apps
Saab has previewed its upcoming infotainment system, IQon, which is based on Google's Android OS. Users will be able to access navigation utilities, multimedia content, web-based services, and a variety of other features. The interface is presented in an eight-inch touchscreen, while an integrated modem automatically connects to the Internet when the car is started.
Despite the primary features that will ship with IQon from the factory, the company is highlighting the system's 'open innovation' strategy to woo third-party developers. PArticipants will have access to specific APIs for the vehicle, connecting to more than 500 signals measuring data such as vehicle speed, GPS location, driver workload, yaw rate, steering wheel angle, engine speed, torque, temperatures, barometric pressure, and the location of the sun.
The IQon system is currently being previewed in the Saab PhoeniX concept car, which is on display at the Geneva Motor Show.
