Verizon turns focus to 4G LTE Telematics for connected vehicles

Verizon Wireless is making a point that its 4G LTE network is more for just smartphones and MiFi hotspots. The carrier is showcasing several new products focused on making automobiles more connected.

Internet connectivity in cars is just on the tipping point of becoming a regular feature in newer cars. Just look at Ford's Sync with MyFord Touch interface and Toyota's recent partnership with Microsoft on its new Telematics platform.

So the stage is set for the carriers themselves to get more involved here. In partnership with a handful of various other companies, Verizon will be showcasing its collaborative efforts at the Telematics 2011 Conference in Detroit this week. The goal of the projects is to combine 4G LTE connectivity with Telematics technology to make vehicles "more connected than ever before."

That goes for in-car features such as hands-free connections, GPS systems and roadside assistance. For example, Airbiquity is teaming up with Verizon to integrate its own in-vehicle mobile apps with Verizon's V Cast apps and interface for regular weather updates and streaming radio.

Verizon is working more on bringing cloud computing access to vehicles with TeleCommunication Systems with customized apps for navigation, location-based searches and even some social networking features.

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