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ARTICLE · 19 DECEMBER 2017

Automakers Try To Compete With Tech Companies

Foley & Lardner LLP
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Why do we need Android Auto or Apple Carplay? Why are our vehicles' infotainment systems not just built with Android and/or iOS software?

United StatesTechnology
Jeffrey Soble
Jeffrey Soble
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Why do we need Android Auto or Apple Carplay? Why are our vehicles' infotainment systems not just built with Android and/or iOS software? These questions ran through my mind as I was reading a recent story from Quartz.com pointing out that tech companies have enough cash to buy most of the auto industry. Think about that – in just cash and equivalents, the tech industry has enough value to buyout the entire enterprise value of the automotive industry. Yet, they do not. They do not want to.

My phone updates routinely. Apps, operating system, whatever. My car, I have to go to the dealer. Bloomberg Technology reports that, perhaps, GM will be able to update software "over-the-air" by 2020. 2020! The map in my navigation system needs updating and they want to charge me over $100 (and that was on sale). The map on my phone is updated every day for free. To update my map, I need to order a disc, that is then put in my car. Perhaps, I could make an appointment, go to a

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