“Chevrolet Introduces MyLink” (CC BY 2.0) by DrivingtheNortheast
If you’ve bought a modern car within the last few years, then chances are you’re familiar with the basics of what a good display can add to the experience. From helping us reverse to allowing easier navigation through a car’s audio system, these technologies are both streamlined and extremely flexible. They also illustrate just one element of an exciting new step towards better display technology. Taking a look at some new and coming additions to this system, we want to look into the future, to see what you might expect with your next purchase.
From Simple Displays to Powerful Computers
So far, most of the screens used by cars operate with simple functionality. This includes music players, the ability to pair Bluetooth, and even video compatibility to be enjoyed by passengers and parked vehicles. Like what happened with the smartphone revolution around 2007 with the iPhone, this element is poised for an immense leap forward.
Taking the next step in display tech are upgrades that could bring these systems from the level of smart TVs to the power of small computers. Web browsers as a base have been available in vehicles like the 2015 Volvo V60 T6 for years, but these systems are typically limited in function and clunky to control.
With upgraded power and better UI, these systems could see significant advancements in entertainment and work possibilities. One example could be greater processing capabilities allowing for low-demand games like the Fluffy Favourites slot and other simple, fun games. Playable when parked or for passengers, more advanced web browsers and backing hardware could allow every step of this experience to be played without shortcomings. From browsing websites, collecting bonuses, and playing at full speed, the sky would be the limit.
For work, better integration with car speaker systems and voice recognition could allow vehicle browsers to use basic email correspondence without the need for manual typing. This would allow for small but crucial updates to colleagues to be far more possible on the go, for those moments when promptness means everything. No more getting stuck in traffic meaning downtime.
Getting Real with Augmented Reality
Already seeing headway in vehicles like the 2022 Mercedes-Benz EQS, AR heads-up displays (HUDs) will prove an immense aid in navigation and safety. By utilizing a series of cameras and projectors, or even a transparent mesh over the windscreen interior, next-gen AR would allow real-time data displays right in front of your eyes.
This could be as simple as speed readouts to visual representations of the path to take to your destination, all without taking your eyes off the road. Joined together in a shared network, systems like this will be able to quickly update users about accidents, traffic warnings, and even the location of friends and loved ones.
“Mazda Mazda3 2014” (CC BY 2.0) by Janitors
With these above technologies already making progress, there’s no question that broader implementation is just a matter of time. Like backing cameras and Bluetooth device support, such advanced tech will eventually become standard. It might take a few years, but these tech upgrades could be some of the most immediately appreciable that vehicles ever get, with serious implications to the quality of your future driving experience.