driving
Latest
Sound Off! What apps do you use to cash in on your car?
When you live in a crowded city, having a vehicle can sometimes feel more like a burden than a luxury. Finding parking, paying for insurance, dealing with the occasional fender bender – managing all of these things could drive even the most serene among us to the brink. But hey, it's 2014, so of course a handful of smart folks have come up with ways to make your car work for you instead: Lyft, Getaround and... what are we missing? Tell us in the Engadget forums! Or if you think it's better to ditch a car completely -- how would you go about selling it online? Sound off, people.
One of Waze's earliest rivals is calling it quits
If you were quick to embrace smartphones as navigational tools, you may know Trapster. It gives you crowdsourced alerts for speed traps, road hazards and other conditions that can affect your commute. Unfortunately, you won't have access to it for much longer; Trapster will shut down in the next few weeks after looking at its "ongoing investments." We've reached out to the company for more details on what's happening, but it's easy to see why it might close up shop. One of its main rivals over the years, Waze, is now under Google's wing -- it's difficult to imagine most crowdsourced location services competing against a company with that much clout. The news is undoubtedly sad if you're a loyal fan, but you'll at least have some alternatives (including Waze and Cobra Electronics' gear) for keeping tabs on driving conditions.
The Crew fires up a new gameplay trailer
The latest trailer for The Crew might blow your mind. It turns out the game will feature cars. And driving. And... all right, maybe it's all stuff that you've known about if you've followed the game with any sort of enthusiasm up to this point. But it's still a glimpse into how the game will play beyond its cross-country driving. The trailer shows off a great deal of both driving mechanics and interface pieces, giving potential players a clearer picture of what the game will look like in play as well as how the game is meant to be played. If you like the idea of hooking up with other drivers and hitting the road to explore, race, and take out targets, catch a glimpse of the gameplay just past the break.
Gamescom 2014: World of Speed's team racing trailer
Slightly Mad Studios and My.com have released a new World of Speed trailer ahead of this week's Gamescom convention in Cologne, Germany. The brief video focuses on team racing and demonstrates how you can assist your mates even if you're not running up front. Side objectives like sliding, slipstreaming, and pathfinding are in the mix, though the clip doesn't explain how they work. It's worth watching if you like gearhead eye candy, though, so click past the cut and have a look.
In-car heads-up display lets you respond to texts with hand motions and voice
We've seen companies take a few stabs at smartphone-savvy heads-up displays for cars, but they tend to be one-way devices -- while they'll feed you info, you still have to reach for your phone to answer a message or get directions. Navdy may just have a smarter solution in store. Its namesake HUD not only projects car stats, navigation and notifications, but lets you interact with them through a blend of gestures and speech. You swipe with your fingers to either respond to or dismiss any alert that comes in; the system leans on the built-in voice commands from Android and iOS, so you can tell Navdy to get directions in Google Maps or play iTunes music as if you were speaking to the phone itself.
Automatic's updated iOS app tells you how much gas you've got left
Automatic brought its driving companion app (which, if you'll recall, pairs with a dongle in your car to deliver real-time driving feedback) to Android earlier this month, but it hasn't left iOS users out in the cold. The team just pulled back the curtain on version 2.0 for roadwarriors who have pledged allegiance to Apple, and that update has brought some nifty new tricks into the fold. The iOS app underwent a touch of plastic surgery, but the real meat comes in the form of two new features for the lead-footed among you. In the early days, your Link dongle would bing at you once you tip-toed over the 70 mph threshold, but you can now tweak that speed limit to your like. More importantly, owners of certain cars will be able to see their current fuel level (along with a estimate of remaining range) on their phones, which sounds much better than trying to guess how much is left in the tank when the fuel light comes on. Yeah, yeah, some of this will sound passé if you tool around in a ride from the past few years, but there's a staggering chunk of people who could stand to smarten up their cars without breaking the bank.
Automatic launches on Android, dismisses your friends when you drive
If you're a car fan making do with a slightly older ride, Automatic's $99 Link dongle is a neat thing to have around: it tracks your trips, monitors your fuel consumption, and lets you know when you're being a leadfoot. It used to be that only Apple acolytes could get their Automatic dongles syncing with their phones, but the company says that's the case no longer: it has just released its Android app to bring the word of realtime driving feedback to all. As a reward for their patience (or, you know, because Android lets devs can get down and dirty with low-level access to hardware), Android users get an extra feature, too. The app can silence your phone while driving, and tell your chums to buzz off (via text message, anyway) if they contact you at the wheel. Combine that with the ability to store and transmit information about a crash, and you've got yourself a pretty nifty car companion -- just don't try testing that latter feature on your own.
Google wants you to (safely) search the web while driving
While phones like the Moto X let you issue voice commands without touching the device, they're still not ideal for driving; if you search for something on the web, you'll still have to take your eyes off the road to see the results. That could change in the near future, Android Police claims. Google is reportedly testing a new Android feature, nicknamed KITT, that would help you focus on your driving even as you scour the internet. When you're in a situation where you can't pay much attention to your phone, an always-on voice command system would walk you through every step of performing common tasks, whether you're searching the web or sending a text message. It would also read back more information than you get today -- a weather result would speak back the entire Google search card, rather than just the basic forecast.
iParked is the best way to find your car
Over the years, I've seen a lot of parking apps that let you drop a pin at your parking space, and then you can navigate back to the marker when it is time to return to your vehicle. iParked (free) does those apps one better, and definitely gets my "gee, I wish I'd thought of this" award for the week. You launch iParked before you leave for your destination and will see your location on a moving map. When you come to a stop sign or a traffic light, the app drops a marker. If you start up again, marker is picked up. The app leverages your iPhone's motion tracking sensors and GPS. I tried the app recently when I went out to lunch. iParked did drop a marker at every stop, but when I finally got out of my car to walk to the restaurant, the marker stayed with my car while a blue dot showed my current position. The app runs in the background so you can do whatever else you do with your phone and not lose your parking place. As a nice bonus, iParked has a timer to alert you to when your parking meter will run out. iParked is a clever and welcome improvement in the current selection of parking apps. They all work well, but most make you manually drop a pin to mark your position. iParked dispenses with that, making it more useful and showing some fresh thinking. iParked is a new app store release requiring iOS 7 or later, and it is optimized for the iPhone 5. I think you will like it, so give it a try if you often need help finding your car.
Google's self-driving cars can now understand cyclists' gestures
Whenever we see a self-driving car, we're always nervous that it won't see us and steamroller us straight into the tarmac. It's a fear that Google is trying to quell with its latest video, revealing that the vehicles are constantly tweaked to better understand and navigate the obstacles of California. In the clip we learn that the cars can now spot a cyclist's arm-waving, and will wait until they've passed before moving along. The rides can also now spot pedestrians from behind, will slow for on-road construction and won't enter a railroad crossing until the exit is clear. Now all we need is for some bright Googler to get William Daniels to voice the on-board computer and we'll pre-order two.
Toyota's Sports Drive Logger lets you relive real life races in Gran Turismo
Imagine this: you just rounded the final bend of the Fuji Speedway International Course. Pedal jammed against the floorboard, you're neck and neck with Jenson Button, eying the finish line. Let's face the facts, you'll never actually race Jenson, but you can use Toyota's new Sports Drive Logger to hone in your skills just like he does. To use the Sports Drive Logger, you'll need to A), own a Toyota GT86 sports car and B), have access to certain race tracks in Japan (the Fuji Speedway International Course, the Tsukuba Circuit 2000 Course, and the Suzuka Circuit International Course). Meet those requirements, and you can use the accessory to record your race digitally and replay it within Gran Turismo 6 on PS3. Similar to the Corvette data recorder we saw at CES, the device captures real-life laps and vehicle data (GPS location, pedal input, steering angles and the like) onto a USB flashdrive, then builds a digital representation of your performance that's recreated in-game. And judging by the video (after the break), it's surprisingly accurate. You can even race against friends and pros alike to learn the fastest way round the track.
Traffic Cam Viewer for iOS is free and easy to use
Traffic Cam apps are pretty popular. Traffic Cam Viewer (free for a limited time) is basic but does the job, and it works for traffic cameras just about anywhere in the world. Most of the traffic apps are specific to a region or particular road, while Traffic Cam Viewer can be set to view cameras almost anywhere. To get things started, you take a trip to the setup menu and scroll to an area you are interested in. It could be a state in the US or another country altogether. Another scroll wheel then appears, from which you can select specific traffic camera locations. In preferences, you can adjust the display for the number of viewable columns. Traffic Cam Viewer can go beyond the basics of just looking at traffic camera feeds, which sets it a bit apart as an app of this genre. If you click on a specific camera the image zooms in, and that feed can then be shared with others. The traffic appears to update in real time, with a new frame appearing every few seconds. Frame rate is dependent on what the particular camera is sending. In my area some of the cameras were not functioning, and Traffic Cam Viewer warned me when I selected them. The app is ad-supported, and I didn't find the ads intrusive, especially since the app is free for now. I doubt if I'd want to see the ads if I was paying for the app. Traffic Cam Viewer is a nice app with a worldwide reach. Other apps with similar functionality are the free Traffic Cameras +Toll and Travel Information, and USA Road Conditions and Traffic Cameras. Traffic Cam Viewer requires iOS 4.3 or greater. It's a universal app and it's optimized for the iPhone 5.
Traffic ticket for driving with Google Glass gets dismissed in court
Pay attention to the road. At least, until the cars are able to drive themselves. That's the rule, and it was probably one of the reasons why Google Glass early-adopter Cecilia Abadie got ticketed for donning the wearable at the wheel. It was a second citation, alongside speeding, although it was dismissed by San Diego Court Commissioner John Blair, noting that: "There is no testimony it was operating or in use while Ms. Abadie was driving." However, he did say earlier that Google's wearable did however, fall "within the purview and intent" of the state's ban on driving with a monitor. This particular case might have been dismissed on lack of evidence, but we reckon those wider implications (and resultant legal tussles) are far from over.
Honda introduces 2014 Civic with iPhone-compatible touchscreen in the dash
Earlier today, Honda held a Google Hangout to announce a new "Display Audio" interface that features a 7-inch high-resolution touchscreen in the dash of the new 2014 Honda Civic and 2015 Honda Fit that can connect to an iPhone and access online content. The 7-inch touchscreen in the vehicles' dash will allow drivers and passengers to touch, swipe and pinch their way through maps, contacts and media. To go along with the Display Audio interface, Honda is announcing four new iOS apps that allow iPhone owners to interact with the new system and provide additional functionality. HondaLink Connect (free). With the HondaLink Connect App, you can search for point-of-interest locations; save favorite destinations; view weather forecasts; stay in touch with key maintenance information about your vehicle, including notifications on your next required service; easily set up service appointments with a quick dial to your servicing dealer; receive useful Feature Guide and Quick Tip messages about your car; contact roadside assistance agents when needed; and more. HondaLink Navigation (US$59.99). Download the HondaLink Navigation App onto your phone and stream an entire navigation system into your Honda dashboard display. Receive all the convenience of in-vehicle maps and routing, including continuously updated traffic information for freeways, highways and major surface streets. Search for points of interest or specific addresses, and easily route to your selected destination. Use the steering wheel controls to interact with the HondaLink Navigation app while driving. Includes free annual map updates. HondaLink Aha (free). The HondaLink Aha app provides convenient access to cloud-based services right through the vehicle dashboard, allowing you to leave your phone tucked away while driving. With this app, HondaLink and Aha help turn your favorite internet content into personalized, on-demand radio stations. HondaLink App Launcher – (free). The HondaLink App Launcher is your guide to easily find apps that are compatible with the HondaLink Next Generation platform. Use it to find other HondaLink Next Generation apps such as HondaLink Connect, HondaLink Aha and HondaLink Navigation. The App Launcher brings these apps into your vehicle dashboard, transforming your in-vehicle experience. The 2014 Honda Civic and 2015 Honda Fit are also the first Hondas with Siri Eyes Free built-in.
PAX Prime 2013: Hands-on with The Crew
I originally learned about The Crew from friends rather than from gaming hype. "Ask them if we can walk around on foot!" they hounded me. They're all anticipating The Crew, and when I showed up to Ubisoft's PAX Prime booth earlier today, I realized they aren't alone: Hordes of people were lined up to play Ubisoft's MMO racer. Naturally, I decided to try my luck. But sorry, guys -- you can't walk around on foot.
Werner Herzog directs documentary on dangers of texting and driving for It Can Wait campaign
AT&T recently recruited none other than Werner Herzog to direct some short videos for the "It Can Wait" campaign to curb texting and driving, but their collaboration hasn't ended there. The campaign, which also has the backing of Verizon, Sprint, and T-Mobile, has today released a 35-minute documentary by the legendary German filmmaker that delves further into the first-hand accounts of texting and driving dangers seen in the 30-second spots. Titled "From One Second to the Next," the documentary is freely available online, and is also being distributed to more than 40,000 high schools and number of safety organizations and government agencies in the US. As the Canadian Press reports, Herzog said that the project "immediately clicked and connected inside of me" when AT&T proposed it to him, adding, "there's a completely new culture out there. I'm not a participant of texting and driving -- or texting at all -- but I see there's something going on in civilization which is coming with great vehemence at us.'' You can watch the full documentary after the break or on the It Can Wait website.
UK government considering fines for drivers wearing Google Glass
Wondering what West Virginia and Britain have in common? This. After hearing that a bill in WV would outlaw Google Glass for motorists in the state, a new report from Stuff suggests that the United Kingdom is considering something comparable. A Department for Transport spokesperson was quoted as saying the following: "We are aware of the impending rollout of Google Glass and are in discussion with the Police to ensure that individuals do not use this technology while driving. It is important that drivers give their full attention to the road when they are behind the wheel and do not behave in a way that stops them from observing what is happening on the road." He went on to affirm that a range of penalties already exist in order to punish drivers who aren't "paying proper attention to the road," and while a law has yet to be passed targetting Glass specifically, it certainly sounds as if that type of modification is on the table. Silver lining? North Korea has yet to issue a similarly depressing condemnation of the headset.
Audi hits up Inrix to add parking spot finder to Audi Connect dash systems
While there are smartphones apps that take some of the hassle out of finding parking, Audi's bringing similar time- and frustration-saving features to a different screen in your ride, through its Audi Connect infotainment systems. Announced at the Telematics Detroit conference, Audi is tapping Inrix's parking spot data so you can find car-friendly floor space from within its dashboard navigation platform. After telling the car where you want to go, you'll have the option to see parking info at the journey's end, including the nearest locations, operating hours, prices and real-time space availability, depending on what data is available from each garage. The sat-nav will also direct you straight to the entrance of the lot, and should you want to know what that entrance looks like, Google Street View will show you. Audi's new parking feature should start hitting Connect-equipped cars from today via an OTA update, so the "finding a space was a nightmare" excuse won't fly next time you're late. But don't worry, we won't tell anyone. Update: Turns out that Inrix gets its data from ParkMe, the makers of the app we link to in the first sentence, which explains why Audi's new feature is so similar.
Automatic delays connected car platform until August as it seeks to perfect iPhone app
It's an age-old problem: do we clamor for a company to ship a product that's not ready, or do we swallow delays with grace as it aims to deliver when things are good and ready? Such a choice has to be made when it comes to Automatic, the California-based startup which had originally hoped to start shipping its automotive dongle + app platform at the end of this month. Those (including yours truly) who pre-ordered on day one received an email last night delivering the news that things were running a bit behind schedule. The hardware itself is actually already being manufactured, but stellar components are only a piece of the total puzzle. The software -- an iPhone app, in this instance -- still needs more time in the proverbial oven, and now we're being told that packages won't ship until "the end of August." A three-month hiccup is nothing to scoff at, and Automatic seemingly knows it. In order to sate those who were hoping to use the $70 product during their upcoming summer road trips, the company is giving early pre-orderers the option to beta test the app as it stands today. For those who agree, they'll receive their hardware in mid-June, but they'll be forced to use it with a version of the app that "lacks a few features like Crash Alert and support for multiple cars and users." We'll be keeping a close eye as the situation develops, and will definitely endeavor to pass along a review just as soon as we're able. If you're curious, we've embedded the email in full just after the break.
Stitcher Radio announces a Car Mode, but it's not quite what I want
I use my iPhone a lot to listen to music and podcasts in my car -- I connect it right up to my car stereo, and it's my main listening source while driving around LA. As a result, I really wish there were more options to control my music while driving around. Music- and podcast-streaming app Stitcher has introduced a new feature along these lines they're calling Car Mode, which is basically just a simplified interface with large, clear controls, so you can choose and play your music easily. There are also some other new features added into the app, including a new front page and faster playback. You can download Stitcher Radio for free on the App Store. Unfortunately, this isn't really what I'm looking for -- this layout still requires you to pick up your phone and press buttons to use it, and that means that you'll still have to pull over to the side of the road to choose your music. (Because as we all know, using your cell phone while driving is illegal; just ask the LAPD.) What I'd really like to see from these streaming apps is Siri integration. I often will be driving around and get an urge to listen to a specific song or artist, and it'd be nice to use Siri to say something like, "Siri, play me some Rolling Stones," or "play me 'Bohemian Rhapsody,'" and have it automatically start playing. I'm not sure that's entirely possible just yet, as Apple's API for Siri can be limited for some developers -- at this point, I think about all you can do is open an app. But hopefully that will change soon. The first streaming-audio app to let me start up and control songs in the car with just my voice will definitely have me interested in switching over to it.