iPhone and Android programmers, start your engines. OnStar recently stated that they will give selected developers access to a proprietary application program interface (API) to create innovative mobile applications designed to interact with OnStar’s suite of services.
Since all new Chevy’s (and GM’s) come equipped with OnStar these days, the availability of options for something like this seem endless to. This means the possibility for developrs to create apps to do nearly every function in their Chevy that OnStar touches. Whether it’s putting on a movie for your kids to watch in the backseat or adjusting the temperature of your house from the car even when you are miles away.
As hot rodders, the possibilities are endless. With the interface creating an interactive environment with new GM vehicles, this means having the ability to tune a new Camaro via our iPhone at the track rather than having to reserve expensive dyno time. The savings don’t stop there, either. With tuning available through smartphones, this also means hiring a second-hand tuning wizard is almost unnecessary.
The first partner to use OnStar’s API (application programming interface) cloud technology will be RelayRides; the world’s first peer-to-peer car sharing marketplace. With RelayRides, millions of vehicle owners will soon be able to leverage OnStar to rent out their idle cars with the owner controlling the rates and availability of the car. By using the app, renters will be able to use remote features with their smartphones, such as unlocking vehicles to access a reservation.
In the past, OnStar has worked on API-based solutions with companies like Mapquest and Google to provide the company’s eNav, service. An API solution was also used in the company’s beta test of Facebook Audio Updates. OnStar will make its closed API available in the first half of 2012. Developers interested in the API should contact OnStar at developers@onstar.com.