The origins of in-vehicle infotainment (IVI), also known as in-car entertainment, can be traced back to car audio systems that consisted of radios and cassette or CD players. Today, IVI also comprises of USB and Bluetooth connectivity, automotive navigation systems, and in-car internet. Rear seat infotainment systems are the latest to join the mix. These systems not only entertain passengers on the rear side of the vehicle, but also provide information regarding vehicle navigation and connectivity. Rear-seat infotainment systems have ultimately emerged as an integral part of the automotive industry.
In 2015, 8 million units of rear seat infotainment were sold globally; according to analysts at Technavio, the global rear seat infotainment market is poised to grow at a CAGR of over 27% by 2020.
Adoption of MOST technology
Media oriented systems transport (MOST) technology allows manufacturers to connect the rear seat infotainment system to the front seat infotainment system. The rear-seat display is then able to command the head unit in the front seat via touchscreen or buttons. MOST also reduces the need for individual processors, thereby increasing the system’s flexibility while also reducing the overall cost. Apart from this, functions like around view monitors (AVM), devices link, and other technologies through USB and Wi-Fi modules have made the MOST network quite popular among car manufacturers. Leading brands such as BMW, Audi, Jaguar, Mercedes-Benz, and Volkswagen have adopted MOST technology in their cars.
Increased use of Linux
OEMs (original equipment manufacturers) are always looking for operating systems (OS) that make infotainment systems look and feel like smartphones, which is why they have turned to Linux. Linux is not only an open-source OS, but also provides manufacturers the freedom to control, add or choose features – something that isn’t possible with proprietary OS platforms. In fact, GENIVI, an industry group that drives the adoption of open-source development platforms for infotainment, prefers the Linux OS. According to analysts at Technavio, the adoption of Linux in automotive infotainment to further bridge the gap between smartphones and infotainment systems will allow customers to remain connected on the go.
Adoption of OLED
Organic light emitting diodes (OLEDs) are manufactured by placing a series of organic thin films between two conductors in order to produce a flat light emitting technology. Unlike LCD displays, OLEDs do not require any kind of backlight. Also, these diodes provide flexible design, have faster response time, and consume less power, which is why more and more OEMs are using them for rear-seat infotainment.
Demand for smart phone mirroring technology
As consumers’ interaction with mobile devices continues to increase, they demand the ability to connect these devices with their vehicle infotainment systems. This has led to innovations and improvements in in-vehicle technology, resulting in a better experience for both passengers and drivers.
Introduction of infotainment in mass-produced mid-segment vehicles
In-vehicle entertainment is no longer limited to premium or luxury cars. With the growing demand for telematics and built-in connectivity, there has been a trend towards the introduction of infotainment systems in mass-produced mid-segment vehicles. Automobile manufacturers like Volkswagen, Ford, Mahindra and Mahindra, Tata Motors, and GM are collaborating with software providers and in-vehicle entertainment and information systems manufacturers to provide infotainment solutions in their mid-range vehicles.
Some of the leading vendors in the global rear-seat infotainment market include Delphi, Alpine Electronics, Panasonic, Harman International and Pioneer.
Pre-order the 2016-2020 Global Rear-seat Infotainment Market Report at 20% Off
