Audi & Cisco to Deliver Webex to Vehicles via app Store Developed by HARMAN & CARIAD

Audi and Cisco have announced that Webex will be the first collaboration app to come to select Audi models. The vehicles will be equipped with online meeting capabilities designed for for hybrid workers.

The Webex automotive application will be available through the in-vehicle Audi Application Store, which has been developed by Volkswagen Group’s software company CARIAD and Samsung subsidiary HARMAN.

It has been designed for select Audi vehicles, with additional Volkswagen Group brands to follow at a later time.

To ensure a safe collaboration experience, attendees can join and participate in meetings easily, minimising distractions; video happens only when parked.

As of July 2023, the Application Store, from which the Webex App can be downloaded, will be available in new production models of the Audi A4, A5, Q5, A6, A7, A8, Q8 e-tron, and e-tron GT in Europe, USA, Canada, Mexico, and overseas markets.

Webex is a leading provider of cloud-based collaboration solutions, which includes video meetings, calling, messaging, events, polling, asynchronous video and customer experience solutions like contact centre and purpose-built collaboration devices. 

Dr. Riclef Schmidt-Clausen, Senior Vice President, Domain Intelligent Cockpit & Body, CARIAD, says: “We are excited to offer Volkswagen Group’s customers Webex meeting capabilities that make hybrid work more convenient and adaptable. With our new Group Application Store we will offer customers a vast variety of essential and popular apps, seamlessly connecting their car with their digital life. Together with our Volkswagen Group brands and partners, we take the digital in-car experience to the next level, turning the car into a smart companion for drivers.”

Albert Jordan, VP and GM of HARMAN’s Automotive Applications Business Unit, adds: “We are delighted to partner with like-minded leaders at the forefront of technology and automotive to bring Webex capabilities into the car for hybrid and remote workers. The HARMAN Ignite Store, a white label solution for Volkswagen Group Application Store, makes it easy for developers to adapt their content and services for automotive, all while ensuring the experience is safe and optimised for the vehicle environment. It’s collaborations like these that will transform the in-cabin experience, keeping drivers connected to what matters.” 

HARMAN designs and engineers connected products and solutions for automakers, consumers, and enterprises worldwide, including connected car systems, audio and visual products, enterprise automation solutions; and services supporting the Internet of Things.