As was foretold in prophecy [1], GM has released free smartphone apps that will allow owners of certain 2011 Chevy, Buick, GMC, and Cadillac vehicles to do all sorts of strange and wonderful things through their iPhone or Android phone. Features fall into three categories: location-based services like a parking reminder that lets you save your location to a GPS-based map, vehicle-specific information like frequently-asked questions from the owner’s manual and explanations of what all them thar lights on the dashboard mean, and OnStar connectivity that will allow remote locking/unlocking and engine start, and diagnostic information display on the phone.
[2]
Original Press Release:
DETROIT – Beginning today, owners of 2011 Chevrolet models can access their vehicle information and OnStar services right from their smart phones. The myChevrolet and OnStar MyLink applications, available as free downloads, provide drivers with unprecedented connectivity to their vehicles from their Android or Apple iPhone device.
“This is a great example of how we are focusing on smart technologies that address customers’ needs,” said Chris Perry, vice president, Chevrolet marketing. “With myChevrolet and Onstar MyLink apps, customers can search their owners’ manual, find their parking spot, and even unlock their car – right from their phone.”
Features of the apps, also available on Buick, GMC and Cadillac models, fall into three categories: location-based services, vehicle-specific information, and OnStar connectivity features.
The location-based services include a parking reminder that allows drivers to save their parking location to a GPS-enabled map, set a timer to track how much time they have on the parking meter, and even add a note or photo with details about their parking location. If they return to a flat tire, the driver can use the app to request roadside assistance or to locate the closest Chevrolet dealership and schedule a service appointment.
Vehicle-specific information is accessible after scanning the vehicle identification number using the smart-phone camera. These features include searchable content for the most-commonly accessed information in the owner’s manual, such as directions saving radio presets. The app also provides explanations of warning lights and indicators on the vehicle instrument panel at the touch of a button.
In addition, myChevrolet integrates with the OnStar MyLink app [3] to access exclusive OnStar technologies. Through OnStar’s unique connection to the vehicle, owners can send remote vehicle commands such as unlocking or locking the doors, and starting the engine. In addition, owners can access key diagnostic information, including fuel tank level and range, remaining oil life, current and recommended tire pressure and lifetime average miles per gallon. The diagnostic information is current as of the last vehicle start, giving OnStar subscribers an up-to-date health report of their vehicle anytime they need it.
myChevrolet and OnStar MyLink are currently available for download, free of charge, from www.apple.com [4], or from www.android.com [5].