The iPhone is steadily becoming like a universal remote, what with applications like this Viper SmartStart system that allows users to unlock and start their cars sans keys.
For $500, which is the price of the Viper SmartStart receiver (the actuall app is free on iTunes), the system will unlock, start, set the alarm, and unlock the trunk of your car. It will also allow you to find a misplaced vehicle via a ‘panic’ button. Basically, it’s like any old remote car starter, except it will be part of your iPhone. You have the option, however, to manage more than one car with it as well as assign more than one user to the car.
Key Themes Behind This Trend
- Mobile Car Starters
- Disruptive innovation opportunities in the automotive industry to develop mobile app-based car starters that can replace traditional key systems.
- Smartphone as Universal Remote
- Opportunity to create smartphone applications that can control multiple devices and systems, such as cars, home automation, and entertainment systems.
- Security and Tracking Apps
- Emerging innovation in developing apps that provide enhanced security features and tracking capabilities for vehicles, using smartphones as a central control hub.
Where This Applies
- Automotive
- Disruption opportunities in the automotive industry to integrate smartphone technology with keyless entry and start systems for vehicles.
- Mobile Applications
- Opportunity for mobile app developers to create innovative solutions for managing and controlling various devices and systems through smartphones.
- Security and Tracking
- Emerging industry for developing apps and systems that offer advanced security features and vehicle tracking using smartphones as a central control device.
