Verizon today unveiled "Hum," a new technology Verizon says can turn any old clunker into a modern, connected car. According to the Verizon announcement, the aftermarket technology and subscription service is composed of a device that plugs into the vehicle's OBD port, and a Bluetooth-enabled device that is clipped to the vehicle visor.
After that, Hum users are given insight into their car's performance and alerts the driver to problems before they happen.
The technology can also use GPS and cellular connectivity to "accurately dispatch advanced roadside assistance, alert emergency personnel of a car's location if a crash is detected, and assist authorities in locating a vehicle that has been reported stolen."
"This service equips drivers on the road today with the same level of information about their vehicles that fitness wearables deliver about our health," said Verizon of the launch. "Simply put, hum democratizes the safety and convenience of vehicle connectivity."
While AT&T has focused on embedding LTE radios in infotainment systems, Verizon has been focused on more of an ad-hoc approach aimed at customers with older vehicles. The telco first unveiled its "Verizon Vehicle" Tech back in January at the North American International Auto Show in Detroit.
Verizon Hum will run users $15 a month plus taxes and fees. There's more detail on Verizon Hum over at the
Hum website for those interested.
·
·
·
