Apple has become a major part of the everyday life of many a person across the entire planet. The iPhone, iPad, iPod, and a slew of other computing devices are found in pockets, backpacks, and across the tables of nearly every coffee shop you can find. From answering emails to crushing candy and listening to music, the iPhone is one of the top players in the smartphone game.
It's also becoming increasingly useful in the automotive world. By pairing seamlessly through a car's Bluetooth connection, large personal audio libraries are easily accessible. Things are about to get even more convenient, however, according to some patent information that The Unofficial Apple Weblog (via Autoblog) recently found.
Apple is already working to bring its iOS software to power in-car infotainment and telematics. Now, however, it seems that Apple is also looking to make some simple in-car tasks that much more convenient.
Your iPhone would be able to connect with your car, which would then adjust a variety of items to be set to your personal preference. Your seat would be exactly where you like it while your mirrors automatically adjust to your preferred viewing angles. The steering wheel would tilt and telescope, and a bunch of other settings could be tailored to your tastes.
Sounds like the sort of tech that already exists in an increasing number of vehicles. What if you could bring your own settings with you though, as they're part of your smartphone not just your own car. Imagine hopping into a rental car that is equipped with the appropriate software. You pair your phone and all of your seating and safety settings are pulled up. Your favorite stations are set to the radio, and you're now a much more comfortable traveler.
While that sounds like the type of tech that's still some years out, it's not as far down the road as you might think. In fact, Sprint is already working on similar tech, and it seems it's merely a matter of getting the automakers to adopt systems that are already possible and available.
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