Facebook, Email Added to Stable of Apps for ASTEROID Car Devices

Parrot’s ASTEROID mobile technology brings smart car entertainment and touch screens to drivers, and they are now able better enjoy video and email on the devices.

The new slate of applications which were announced this week include VLC, GLympse, Recargo, ASTEROID Mail, Facebook for ASTEROID and Parkopedia and can be used on the company’s entire line of Asteroid devices.

VLC is a popular open source video application that will allow users to play virtually any movie file they happen to have through their ASTEROID powered device. In addition to standard video playback the application can also connect to network audio streams like those used for online radio stations. Currently, this version is marked as a beta, so its capabilities can change at any time.

Glympse allows users to share their location in real-time with others via Facebook, Twitter or text message. ASTEROID Mail keeps users up to date with the latest from their personal or work e-mail box.

Recargo bills itself as a way for electronic vehicle or EV users to connect with each other. Using the application, users who have EVs will, according to its description, be able to “drive with confidence knowing [where] the nearest charging stations [are]”. That could be a life saver for users who would like to stay within a certain area if their car’s internal batteries are low. Additionally users can share tips on driving and owning completely electronic vehicles with other community members.

ASTEROID will add support for Facebook with a dedicated application as well.

Lastly, Parkopedia allows users to instantly locate and get directions to the nearest parking space. The application also provides users with an overview of the current rates and payment methods for local parking as well. Unlike the other applications Parkopedia is not free. It will cost users $1.99.

According to ASTEROID maker Parrot, all of these applications will work across their entire mobile products ecosystem. These devices include the ASTEROID Smart, a car audio deck replacement that offers wireless calling, built in Wi-Fi, mobile hotspot support and compatibility with a user’s iPod, iPhone, or iPad. These applications will also run on ASTEROID’s line of mobile tablets as well, including the ASTEROID Tablet and the ASTEROID Mini. All of the entertainment and computing technology is powered by various versions of Google’s Android operating system.

Read:  Volvo to Support Spotify

As users become comfortable with the level of connectivity that owning a smartphone provides, auto technology companies are including systems like ASTEROID Smart equipment to provide that same experience without having to have a separate device. For example, Volvo recently announced that it would add support for popular music app Spotify in its Sensus Connected Touch platform.