Autocar Mercedes Launches New In-Car App Platform for "Digital Ecosystem"

German luxury automaker Mercedes Benz has launched the next-generation of its Mercedes "me" apps. The three new apps allow drivers to stay connected to their Mercedes Benz vehicles. The updated app interface lets drivers check their vehicle's status remotely, activate certain controls, schedule service, or summon roadside assistance wherever they are.

The three apps include the Mercedes "me App", "Store App" and "Service App." The new apps and features work on 2019 or newer Mercedes-Benz vehicles.

The updated Mercedes-Benz me Apps combine improved base functionalities with a better customer experience, the company said. Mercedes also redesigned the user interface, so the app is easier and more intuitive to use.

The Mercedes me app allows drivers to check key status information, including vehicle mileage or tire pressure, In addition, new digital command functions can turn on the vehicle's heater, open or close the convertible roof or open the windows.Mercedes also added a new feature that flashes the headlamps so that the vehicle can be located at night in a parking lot.

Depending on the model, drivers can start the engine, lock or unlock the doors, track the location of their vehicle or summon roadside assistance. The updated me apps can even activate certain features of the vehicle using Google Home or Amazon Alexa voice assistants.

Other functions include the ability to remotely open and close the windows or the panoramic sunroof and check the condition of the brake pads on some vehicles.

"The new generation of Mercedes me Apps makes it even easier for our customers to contact Mercedes-Benz around the clock. They can book a service appointment at their preferred dealership or send their next travel destination directly to their car by app, for example. We are always focused on making life easier for our customers," said Britta Seeger, Member of the Board of Management of Daimler AG and Mercedes-Benz AG, in charge of Marketing & Sales.

The companion Mercedes me Store App offers convenient access to the digital products from Mercedes-Benz. It provides an overview of the terms for each of the Mercedes me connect services as well as on-demand features used.  Monthly subscription fees for any add-on services can be extended via smartphone at any time as needed using the Store app.

The Mercedes me Service App is designed to keep owners up to date on vehicle vehicle's service needs. The app pushes reminders of service appointments or reminds drivers when their vehicle is due for scheduled maintenance.

The Service App displays any active warning lamps and recommends appropriate maintenance checkups, such as checking the tire pressure at the next fuel stop. Customers can also book service appointments at their local dealer using the app. In addition, the app also offers how-to videos with interesting information on the use of the vehicle, including the ability to browse the owner manuals.

Mercedes Benz first launched its Me app in 2015 and was one of the first automakers to offer smartphone connectivity to its vehicles. The app will be available in over 40 Mercedes me markets by the end of the year. The automaker said it was developed in close cooperation with partners and customers.

The updated Mercedes me apps are built upon a standardized developer platform, so developers can build new apps for the ecosystem. In 2019 Mercedes-Benz was the first vehicle manufacturer to grant software developers from all over the world access to its Software Development Kit (SDK).

The new Mercedes me apps are available now for iOS devices on Apple's App Store and for Android devices via the Google Play Store.

August 05, 2020