HARMAN and CARIAD, the software company of the Volkswagen Group, have announced new collaborations across various key industries to enhance the in-car experience with a range of newly available apps. This expansion brings the total number of apps in the Group’s App Store to over 70, depending on the model and market. Integrated with the HARMAN Ignite Store, this unified in-car application store for Volkswagen Group vehicles allows OEMs to maintain control over third-party content, user experience, and customer relationships. Audi has already implemented this store in select models and regions for the 2024 model year and will also integrate it into the new Audi Q6 e-tron, launching in August. Other Volkswagen Group brands will follow suit. HARMAN and CARIAD will showcase their application store to the Android developer community at DroidCon Berlin from July 3 to 5.
New Apps Coming to the Application Store:
- Booking.com: This app helps users find and book great hotel or apartment deals quickly. Users can also book flights, rental cars, and more.
- Eventseeker: A personalized in-car event service that provides detailed information about concerts, sports, theater, comedy, festivals, and cultural events. It uses music preferences to recommend events tailored to the user’s interests.
- Livil: The “In-Car Messenger” app integrates all preferred communication and work channels into one app. It streamlines and semi-automates typical communication processes using voice commands and Gen AI support.
- Shelly Smart Control: This app offers a seamless IoT experience for enhanced automation control and monitoring of Shelly devices. It allows users to track energy consumption and forecast monthly electricity bills.
- Tennis TV: ATP Media’s streaming service offers live streaming of up to 2,500 matches per year, match replays, highlights, classic matches, and behind-the-scenes features.
Future Collaborations and App Integrations:
- Bloomberg: HARMAN and Bloomberg are working together to expand how users stay informed. The Bloomberg app lets users listen to Bloomberg Radio, podcasts, and text-to-audio news.
- Microsoft: HARMAN is partnering with Microsoft to bring new content and experiences to the HARMAN Ignite Store, starting with a web conferencing app for Microsoft Teams, allowing users to join meetings directly from the in-vehicle calendar.
The HARMAN Ignite Store is a secure platform compliant with Android Automotive Operating System (AAOS) standards, connecting OEMs with developers to deliver unique in-car digital experiences. It enables OEMs and developers to create new digital revenue streams and personalized driving experiences for consumers. HARMAN’s automotive expertise provides Android developers with the resources needed to succeed in the automotive market. Together with CARIAD, developers can easily join the Volkswagen Group ecosystem and leverage the combined expertise of both companies.
“As a fully compatible app store for Android Automotive OS, the HARMAN Ignite Store continues to bring new app experiences into the vehicle, meeting the expectations of today’s consumers,” said Jens Beckmann, Senior Director and Business Lead for Store & FOD at HARMAN International. “Our growing ecosystem of apps spans multiple areas, so there’s something for everyone.”
At DroidCon Berlin, held at the City Cube Berlin, HARMAN and CARIAD will present their latest innovations at booth 18, demonstrating how their strategic cooperation is advancing the automotive industry.
