Do you own a smartphone such as an iPhone, BlackBerry or Android phone? If so, you have probably downloaded a few apps on the phone.
If you are unfamiliar with apps, apps are small software applications that are similar to computer programs. These can include games, music players as well as enhanced social media websites.
Toyota is bringing that app technology to its cars and trucks with the Entune system. The Entune system is a multimedia system that will include mobile apps, music and voice recognition software.
It was recently announced at the 2011 Consumer Electronics Show in Las Vegas.
Because Entune will have voice recognition software, you will not need to press any buttons to access any apps. This is great for safety purposes.
According to the Toyota news release, the Entune system will feature some popular applications. Here are some to the top applications that you will be able to download on Entune.
Pandora: This is an Internet radio service that allows you to select music based on a favorite artist or song. Pandora then selects similar sounding songs and artists for you to listen to. This app helps you discover new artists and songs.
Bing: This is an Internet search engine powered by Microsoft. It is becoming a very popular alternative search engine to Google. It will include Bing Maps, which will help you locate points of interest while driving your Toyota. If you have a question, Bing will answer it.
Movie Tickets.com: With this app, you will be able to see nearby movie times and purchase tickets for movies from your Toyota. This app is very similar to the movie tickets website. If you forget your phone, now you’ll be able to see show times from your car or truck. This is great for planning spur of the moment movie dates.
XM Radio: This is a satellite radio service that features more than 130 channels. It is very similar to cable TV. You pay for the service and you get a lot of channels. However with satellite radio, you don’t get the commercials. This is a subscription based service.
OpenTable: This is an online, real time restaurant reservation network that allows you to search for nearby restaurants in most major cities. It has more than 15,000 restaurants listed in the United States, Canada and the United Kingdom. You can earn dining rewards points by using this app.
Traffic Reports: With Entune, you will also get real time traffic reports. This includes weather reports, fuel prices as well as local news. When you are driving, Entune will help you avoid traffic.
According to the Toyota news release, Entune will only be available in select 2011 models this year. Entune will be part of the stereo system on select Toyota vehicles.
It is expected that this type of technology will become more widely available in the years to come. For people with older cars who want similar technology, they can use their smartphones in their vehicles.
For example many Toyota parts stores that sell genuine Toyota parts also sell accessories that allow you to integrate your iPhone and iPods into your Toyota.
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