OnStar Expands Mobile App Technology

July 29, 2010
Posted by Carguide Editorial

Owners of most new 2011 Chevrolet, Cadillac, Buick and GMC vehicles will soon be able to control key vehicle functions from their smart phones, thanks to the power of OnStar.
Chevrolet, Cadillac, Buick and GMC are developing brand-specific mobile applications that will leverage OnStar technology to allow vehicle owners to activate all of the functions available on a traditional vehicle key fob - remote start, horn and lights and door lock/unlock - from their smartphones.
This means drivers will no longer have to be within a requisite distance, or even have their keys with them, to control these functions on their vehicles.
For example, say someone is racing to catch a flight and realizes at the gate that he forgot to lock his vehicle. OnStar's mobile app technology allows him to sign into his Chevrolet, Cadillac, Buick or GMC app and send a remote lock signal to his vehicle, giving him the peace of mind to go on with his trip knowing his vehicle is secure.
Or, for example, a family attending a baseball game on a hot summer day could remotely start their vehicle as they are leaving the ballpark, so the vehicle is cooled to a comfortable temperature by the time they reach it.
In addition, the Chevrolet, Cadillac, Buick and GMC apps will leverage OnStar's unique connection to the vehicle to provide key diagnostic information, including fuel tank level and range, remaining oil life, current and recommended tire pressure and lifetime average miles per gallon.
Chevrolet, Cadillac, Buick and GMC mobile applications will offer a variety of other features tailored specifically for each brand's customers that will be revealed in totality when the brands begin bringing their apps to market in the months ahead.