Audi Connect

For some reason Audi wasn’t notified of T-Mobile being bought out by AT&T. The automaker announced yesterday that T-Mobile, which is now a part of AT&T, will serve as the U.S. wireless carrier for its Audi Connect systems in the company’s newest Audi luxury vehicle lines.

Starting with the 2012 Audi A7 in April, the Audi Connect Service will include voice-activated Google Earth, Google Local Search, and Sirius Traffic information combined with Google Earth imagery. The service will also allow drivers to get real-time news, weather, and fuel prices from other providers.

But that’s not all folks. The Audi Connect Service  is also able to turn the vehicle into a secure mobile Wi-Fi hotspot. Audi Connect services are enabled with a T-Mobile SIM card that is connected to T-Mobile’s network and is inserted into the advanced Audi MMI Navigation Plus system. To facilitate easy activation, T-Mobile SIM cards will be included with the vehicle, which will allow buyers to sign up for a service plan at the time of vehicle purchase or at any time during or after the six-month complimentary trial period.

“The launch of Audi Connect is part of a foundational strategy to help Audi lead with first-to-market, cutting-edge connected services,“ said Johan de Nysschen, President, Audi of America. “We’re looking forward to a productivel relationship with T-Mobile USA as we give motorists and passengers the ability to access the most current information and enhance their enjoyment of their Audi vehicle.”

Following its debut on the 2012 Audi A7, the Audi Connect service will be available on the 2012 Audi A8,  and the 2012 Audi Q7. It will also make its way into future models like the Audi Q5 Hybrid.

- By: Omar Rana