Leave it to Germany’s luxury carmakers to pick up the latest and fanciest tech gadget that comes out and find an application for the automotive industry. Today we learn that Mercedes-Benz has developed a new navigation system that utilizes Google Glass with a voice-activated interface on one of the lenses.
Speaking with Autonew Europe, Johann Jungwirth, head of Mercedes’ North American R&D division, confirmed the news and said the automaker will offer the Google Glass application as soon as the tech giants makes Google Glass commercially available. Currently, the wearable device is available only to a handful of developers for $1,500, but will likely go on regular sale next year.
“This is an example of a seamless transition as you stay connected when you get to your car, when you drive, and when you leave your car,” said Jungwirth.
The Google Glass will be able to guide drivers to their cars, transfer a destination address to the vehicle’s navigation system and even offer infotainment applications.
Over the long run, Mercedes wants drivers to access all information stored in their smartphones, tablets, computers and other digital devices in their cars.
While Jungwirth wouldn’t divulge more details, Konrad Wessner, general manager of Germany-based market research agency Puls, told the publication that drivers could use Google Glass for more applications.
“Drivers can access the Internet and infotainment applications with less distraction,” he said. “Normally, you must take your eyes off of the road and look at a car console screen, but with Google Glass, your line of vision remains on the road.”
If you’re thinking about safety, you’re not alone as Mercedes itself admits there could be some problems. “We obviously don’t want people using Google Glass when they drive,” said Jungwirth.
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