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Automatic upgrades $100 Bluetooth car dongle, launches ‘app store for cars’

Automatic, a Bluetooth dongle that plugs into your car’s on-board diagnostic port to stream data to your iPhone, has been updated to a new version capable of streaming to two apps at the same time. The company has also launched an ‘app store for cars’ in the form of a webpage with download links to 22 apps that are compatible with the device.

We reviewed the original model back in 2013, when Zac Hall described it as smart, fun and interesting. At the time, it could only stream data to Automatic’s own companion app, but the latest version supports two simultaneous Bluetooth data streams, allowing both Automatic and a second app to receive data simultaneously.

Compatible apps include nine business-oriented apps, allowing things like automated mileage expense claims; convenience apps, like Nest, to pre-heat or cool your home while driving home; safety, like a driving coach to help new drivers; and performance, to provide real-time data to assist in car tuning.

The second-gen Automatic adapter also includes “built-in GPS, Made for iPhone (MFi) certification, and an improved connector to fit better in more cars” at the same $100 price.

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Comments

  1. israelanderson - 9 years ago

    And with even greater privacy concerns.

  2. tomtubbs - 9 years ago

    Still US only?

  3. Mathieu Koenning - 9 years ago

    What’s up with Canada?

  4. What’s up with Canada?

  5. They’re going international but they do without any guarantees… https://www.automatic.com/international/

    Ships to 33 countries
    Car compatibility is not guaranteed (and they don’t accept returns for lack of compatibility)
    Not all features are supported
    Ships by end of 2015
    Sales are final once product ships

  6. totencough - 9 years ago

    I just remembered this last week. Awesome to see they’re doing well and moving forward. Might have to get one later this year…

  7. hada2013 - 9 years ago

    H

  8. hada2013 - 9 years ago

    Ahsi son las cosas en realudad????

Author

Avatar for Ben Lovejoy Ben Lovejoy

Ben Lovejoy is a British technology writer and EU Editor for 9to5Mac. He’s known for his op-eds and diary pieces, exploring his experience of Apple products over time, for a more rounded review. He also writes fiction, with two technothriller novels, a couple of SF shorts and a rom-com!


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