Hyundai has announced an app called Blue Link that will let you control certain features of the car from the comfort of your wrist.
Example functionality of the Android Wear version of the Blue Link app include being able to start and stop the engine, lock and unlock the doors, turn on the headlights, locate your car in a car park and honk the horn while using the Android Wear smartwatch app.
You can even call for roadside assistance, which could be a standout feature for people with disabilities or other special requirements.
The app is said to work across the entire Android Wear range so you won’t need a specific smartwatch to get involved – although you will obviously need a new-ish Hyundai car. 2015 models such as the Sonata, Genesis and Azera are all supported.
Hyundai Motor America executive director Barry Ratzlaff said: “This new app expands Hyundai’s exploration into how wearable technology and Blue Link fit into a customer’s lifestyle.
“Connecting to your car through a smartwatch and voice recognition was previously something seen only in science fiction movies. Now, we can provide this capability to owners of Hyundai vehicles equipped with Blue Link.”
Hyundai’s Blue Link app supports voice control for all functions, so never has it been more possible to feel like Michael Knight controlling Kit than now, providing you can get over talking to your wrist. Voice commands include ‘start my car’, ‘lock my car’ and ‘find my car’.
The device has no range limit provided you have access to a data connection, which seems like it could be both a blessing and a curse. No one wants to accidentally start their car while sat at their desk, after all.
The Android Wear version of Blue Link will be available free from the Google Play app store from Q1 of 2015. Hyundai is planning a full reveal at CES 2015 in Las Vegas so you won’t have long to wait if you’re keen to hear full details.
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