(Newser)
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When the Internet combined with the telephone to create the smartphone, it fundamentally changed our world. Now the Internet is in the process of combining with our automobiles, and it promises even bigger transformations, writes Thilo Koslowski in Wired. Apple, Sprint, and Intel have all made moves recently into the automotive industry. But what could those changes entail?
- Self-driving cars. Yes, it's been the science-fiction dream for ages. But as cars grow more connected, their systems are becoming more contextual, and next comes autonomy. In fact, Koslowski predicts at least three car companies will announce plans for autonomous technology vehicles by 2016. Maybe even ones that can pick up your groceries.
- Better safety. Road navigation systems that warn of bad drivers nearby, and safer routes to avoid them.
- Subsidized car purchases. As cars integrate more closely with our digital lives, car makers will pay us for teaming up with telecommunications companies and other lifestyle manufacturers.
- No ownership. Groups of drivers could have on-demand access to whatever type of car is required on any given day.
It's a wild future. Check out Koslowski's full story in
Wired.
