Samsung’s new dongle will connect your auto to the Web

“We have been listening to our customers and pushing boundaries to create a connected auto ecosystem that seamlessly integrates our products and partner services for a better driving experience”, said Rhee In-jong, Samsung Electronics’ executive vice president and head of R&D, software and services, mobile communication business.

The Samsung Connect Auto dongle contains an LTE modem, a Wi-Fi hotspot, a GPS receiver and a tiny computer running Tizen, and connects to a car’s on-board diagnostic system via the OBD II port under their steering wheel.

Security remains a major focus of the solution, as it utilizes Samsung’s KNOX mobile security platform. Prioritizing security differentiates Samsung Connect Auto from competitor offerings. While the Verizon device works approximately the same, it does not have an LTE connectivity, which makes the Samsung product seem to be the superior one. Once connected, the device can monitor the vehicle’s operation, providing updates on eco driving efficiency through the use of proprietary algorithms that analyze miles traveled, time on the road and price per gallon.

Samsung Connect Auto will allow older cars to become smarter by connecting them to the Internet.

There are plenty of such devices on the market, typically equipped with serial ports for connection to a PC or, in more modern ones, Wi-Fi or Bluetooth connections allowing smartphone apps to provide real-time reports on engine performance.

“Orange Business Services is proud to collaborate with Samsung to jointly provide advanced IoT/M2M expertise and services to the automotive industry”. All of the data is secured using Samsung Knox. The adapter promotes safer driving habits (including through insurance partnerships), keeps tabs on maintenance, helps you find your parked auto and even alerts your contacts if you’re ever involved in an accident.

AT&T will be the first wireless carrier in the United States to support the Samsung Auto Connect LTE device, but pricing and availability have yet to be announced at this point.

The company’s software development kit also provides geo-fencing and driver-rating algorithms for programmers to incorporate into their apps. It’s trying to create a whole internet-savvy vehicle ecosystem, and it has the help of big partners like AT&T, China Unicom, Here and Orange – Samsung could “win” simply by becoming the de facto choice for auto technology upgrades.