ABI predicts growth in connected automotive infotainment

Shipments to exceed 62 million by 2018 as feature set explodes

ABI Research predicts that shipments of connected automotive infotainment systems will grow from 9 million in 2013 to more than 62 million in 2018 with connected navigation, multimedia streaming, social media, and in-car Wi-Fi hotspots becoming key features.

ABI Research VP and practice director Dominique Bonte comments, “Open platforms continue their march forward. While both the GENIVI consortium (open source common automotive infotainment reference platform) and the Car Connectivity Consortium (MirrorLink screen replication technology) somewhat struggle to find momentum, the car industry is now turning its attention to HTML5 and Android with both Renault (R-Link) and Volvo (Sensus Connected Touch platform based on Parrot’s Asteroid Smart) embracing (heavily) modified versions of the Android operating system.”

In a similar vein, according to the research firm, automotive applications and/or stores have become standard components of any connected automotive infotainment platform with the automotive industry finally realizing the ability to download aftermarket services and apps is a powerful way to keep systems up-to-date and relevant during the vehicle lifecycle.