Continental announced a new box for consoles or dashes to hold occupants smartphones with built-in wireless connections.
The Continental multifunctional smartphone terminal combines wireless charging of the smartphone, wireless antenna coupling, and near field communications (NFC). The features do not require a cable. A modular design allows car makers to decide which features they want to offer. It looks like it can fit in standard dash and console areas of the cockpit.
The units will go into production in 2015 when they will be available for order.
Antenna Coupling
For the best connection the smartphone is connected to an antenna mounted on the outside of the vehicle. An external antenna spares the smartphone’s battery and reduces electromagnetic exposure to passengers. The terminal offers passive antenna coupling technology for more stable downloads, more reliable streaming and improved voice quality during calls.
NFC Wireless Keys & Car Functions
The Continental terminal also connects the smartphone to the vehicle architecture via near field communication (NFC) for wireless keys, communications to the car functions and easy communication of driver preferences for audio, heating/AC, mirror or seat position.
Wireless Qi Charging
Compatible smartphones can be charged in the terminal, saving space and without any tangled cables, using the Qi standard.
The Samsung Galaxy S5, S4 and S3, the LG G2, and the Nokia Lumia 1020, 925, 820 and 720, can be adapted for wireless charging by using Qi back covers. Qi-compatible cases are also available for the Apple iPhone 5S, 5, 4S, and 4. Some smartphones have Qi already including Nokia Lumia 1520, 930 and 920, the Google Nexus 5 and 4, and the LG Optimus G Pro.