AT&T to develop in car video streaming service

US operator AT&T plans to develop an in-vehicle video service as part of its connected car offering, following on from the opening of a connected car centre in Atlanta, the AT&T Drive Studio in January.

AT&T Drive is a modular connected car platform that aims to package connectivity, billing, data analytics and infotainment to car makers and developers. The carrier has teamed up with multi-play services vendor QuickPlay Media to launch a live linear TV and video on demand streaming services to car makers collaborating with the operator in the AT&T Drive Studio.

According to QuickPlay, its solution includes a configurable, customisable client application, support for adaptive streaming, content protection with DRM solutions, dynamic advertising, banner ad support, multi-language support and featured content.

It added it will enable AT&T to provide in-car infotainment by allowing it to stream hundreds of live linear TV channels and hours of premium video on demand content.

”In-vehicle video services are going play a crucial part in making the next generation of connected cars,” said Chris Penrose, senior vice president, emerging devices at AT&T Mobility.

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“Due to this collaboration, automotive manufacturers around the world will be able to provide consumers with cutting edge multiscreen entertainment.”

Connected car initiatives appear to be gaining momentum in 2014. Earlier this week, iPhone maker Apple announced the upcoming launch of Apple CarPlay, which will be available on select new cars in 2014. The firm claims it will be a smarter and safer way for consumers to use their iPhone in the car.

Last month, it came to light that the United States could soon make M2M connectivity in new vehicles mandatory, following research undertaken by the US Department of Transportation’s National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). And at Mobile World Congress last month, automaker Ford rolled out an updated version of its Focus model, showcasing advanced drive assist and mobile connectivity features, while M2M specialist Jasper Wireless unveiled a cloud-based platform targeting the automotive OEM sector, helping car companies implement and enhance the connected car experience.

And in the first week of the year, leading tech firms teamed up with automotive manufacturers to create an industry alliance aimed at bringing the Android platform to connected cars. Audi, GM, Honda, Hyundai and Nvidia joined Google to form the Open Automotive Alliance (OAA).