Verizon Unveils ‘Hum,’ Its Connected auto Solution

Verizon Communication’s Telematics division has moved forward with the telecom giant’s push into the connected auto space, announcing commercial availability of its Hum aftermarket “vehicle technology and subscription service”. You just have to plug the hum device into your car’s OBD-II port (a connector that is required in all cars and light trucks built in America from 1996 onwards), clip the Bluetooth-enabled speaker/console to the driver’s visor, and you should be ready to roll. Hum’s GPS-based technology can also assist first responders locate the vehicle in the event of an accident or theft.

On Wednesday, August 27, Verizon released the Hum, a gadget and service than aiming to turn older cars into modern Internet-connected vehicles.

Incident Alert & Emergency Assistance notifies the hum emergency response center if the system detects an incident. Drivers can also initiate a call at the push of a button to speak with a trained, live agent.

“Hum is an important service, one that we feel passionately will help save lives and keep drivers and their loved ones protected whether they are traveling across town or across the country”, said Verizon Telematics CEO Andrés Irlando.

The combination is created to monitor the vehicle’s operation and maintenance needs. Additionally, hum will automatically alert customers to vehicle troubles and general manufacturer recalls.

Two-year subscription plans begin at $15 per month and include equipment for one vehicle, with Verizon stating additional vehicles can be added to an account at a discounted price.

Hum is a separate sign-up and bill that will not be bundled with Verizon or other wireless bills.