Developed alongside Ford, Toyota is looking to establish an industry development and operations framework in order to deploy Livio’s SmartDeviceLink (SDL).
While commercializing their own telematics system using SDL, the Japanese manufacturer is welcoming other automakers and app developers to join them in this collaboration. SDL is an open source platform for smartphone apps and car connectivity, which allows customers to use apps when behind the wheel, through voice recognition.
Toyota’s Executive VP Shigeki Terashi said that “Developing a safer and more secure in-car smartphone connectivity service which better matches individual vehicle features is exactly the value and advantage an automaker can offer customers. We expect that many companies share our view and will participate in the industry SDL collaboration.”
Their initial deal with Ford goes back to 2011, and since then Toyota has completed their investigation and consideration of SDL, and found it suitable for its in-car app connectivity. Thanks to SDL, car manufacturers can offer smartphone apps which match each company’s in-car system interface, enabling customers to use specific apps more safely and comfortably.
Another bonus is that if more car manufacturers use SDL, app developers can make sure that more and more apps are compatible with multiple automakers’ telematics systems – which results in more apps being available in a shorter amount of time.
At CES 2016, Toyota will demonstrate an SDL integration in the Livio exhibit, as officials from Ford and Livio will also participate.
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