Jaguar and RIM are working closely at BlackBerry World to offer a product similar to what we’ve seen with Ford Sync and BMW ConnectedDrive. The big difference here is that Jaguar is putting the BlackBerry screen exactly as you see it on your phone onto the in-car dash system, complete with touchscreen responsiveness. Combined with USB connection and stereo Bluetooth, you can access any OS 6 BlackBerry with plenty of ease. Don’t worry, they still have safety in mind, and are blocking apps that could be extra-distracting, like text-messaging. this particular demo took place on the XJ L, but Jaguar’s looking to include this functionality in many of their future models.
This is a pretty unique offering, and shows a lot of potential for whenever the PlayBook and OS 7 devices get some compatibility. Unlike Sync, app developers won’t have to include any additional APIs in order to work, but Jaguar will reach out to car-friendly apps and offer them ways to be optimized for the in-car dash experience. This class of application is quickly becoming crowded, so being able to remain differentiated, but no matter which way you go, it looks like BlackBerry will work with whatever your favourite car-maker may be.
Though RIM’s acquisition of QNX is generally associated with the PlayBook and its new operating system, QNX is heavily involved with cars, and powers many systems already available. I trust this foot in the door will help RIM continue to hook up with partners and make sure BlackBerry is the phone of choice for connected drivers.
Lots more good stuff coming from BlackBerry World over the week. Stick around!
