Nio has unveiled a high-end smartphone designed to be used with its electric vehicles, offering a range of functions such as instructing the car to park itself. The Nio Phone, priced between 6,499 and 7,499 yuan ($890-$1,030), is the first car-specific phone to be sold by a Chinese company. It will initially be available only in China. Nio CEO William Li said the phone has over 30 car-specific functions and has broken new ground with connection technologies.
Nio Launches Smartphone to Use with its EVs
Nio has introduced a high-end smartphone specifically designed for its electric vehicles. The Nio Phone boasts more than 30 car-specific functions and features advanced connection technologies. It allows drivers to remotely instruct their cars to park, drive to their location, and unlock even when the phone is switched off. Priced between 6,499 and 7,499 yuan, the Nio Phone will initially be available only in China. Nio’s focus on the smartphone is likely to collect user data to improve user experience and customer loyalty. The smartphone and automotive industries continue to merge, with other companies like Meizu and Xiaomi also entering the car market.
Advanced Features and Data Collection
The Nio Phone offers a range of advanced features, including the ability to remotely control the car’s parking and driving functions. It also allows users to unlock the car even when the phone is switched off. While Nio’s primary interest in designing the phone is likely to collect user data, it aims to enhance user experience and customer loyalty. By collecting data through the smartphone, Nio can improve its services and tailor them to individual user preferences.
Intermingling of Smartphone and Automotive Worlds
The introduction of the Nio Phone highlights the increasing overlap between the smartphone and automotive industries. Other companies, such as Meizu and Xiaomi, are also venturing into the car market. Meizu has unveiled smartphones that can connect to Geely’s Lynk & CO cars, while Xiaomi is set to start manufacturing cars. This convergence of industries reflects the growing demand for smart technologies and the integration of digital capabilities in vehicles.
