Audi Partners with CARIAD to Launch Audi in-Car App Store

Posted on Mar 2 2023 - 9:48am by Maria Campos
Audi Partners with CARIAD to Launch Audi in-Car App Store

German automaker Audi has joined forces with Volkswagen subsidiary CARIAD to introduce an in-vehicle app store to its selected models equipped with the MIB 3 infotainment toolkit. The app store will allow Audi’s customers to access third-party apps directly through their vehicles’ MMI without relying on their smartphones.

Access Third-Party Apps with Ease

With the app store, customers can download third-party apps via a separate MMI tile in various categories such as music, video, gaming, navigation, productivity, weather, and news. Since 2019, Amazon’s Alexa has been available in Audi models and will feature an improved graphical interface starting this summer.

Data Link and Billing

A data link will be necessary to use third-party apps, which will be billed via data volume for European Audi owners. The app store will be available in select models with the latest MIB 3 software cluster from June, including the Audi A3, A4/A5, Q5, A6/A7, 8 e-tron, and Audi e-tron GT. However, vehicles with an earlier production date will not have access to the third-party apps.

Audi’s Synergy with Volkswagen Group

Audi leverages the collective knowledge and synergies of the Volkswagen Group to ensure the success of intricate digital systems such as the new in-vehicle app store. CARIAD, the group’s software company, is responsible for developing the technology stack for automated and connected driving, driver assistance systems, a standardized infotainment platform, and a new digital ecosystem centered around the car.

In-Vehicle App Store for Audi’s Select Models

Audi’s new in-vehicle app store aims to provide a seamless user experience to its customers while driving. With the MIB 3 infotainment toolkit, the app store will enable users to access third-party apps directly through their vehicles’ MMI. This new feature will eliminate the need for customers to switch between their smartphones and their car’s display, making the driving experience smoother and safer.

Accessing Third-Party Apps via MMI

The in-vehicle app store will offer a wide range of third-party apps in various categories, such as music, video, gaming, navigation, productivity, weather, and news. Customers can download these apps through a separate MMI tile, making it more accessible than ever before. Moreover, with Amazon’s Alexa already available in Audi models since 2019, users can enjoy new features with an improved graphical interface from this summer.

Convenient Billing via Data Volume for European Audi Owners

European Audi owners can enjoy a hassle-free billing process with the in-vehicle app store. A data link is required to use third-party apps, which will be billed via data volume. This billing method will allow customers to pay for their app usage conveniently without any additional charges.

Audi’s Synergy with Volkswagen Group

Audi’s collaboration with Volkswagen subsidiary CARIAD signifies the company’s commitment to improving its digital offerings. CARIAD is responsible for developing the technology stack for automated and connected driving, driver assistance systems, a standardized infotainment platform, and a new digital ecosystem centered around the car. The partnership allows Audi to leverage the collective knowledge and synergies of the Volkswagen Group, ensuring the success of complex digital systems such as the in-vehicle app store.

The new in-vehicle app store from Audi and CARIAD is a significant milestone in the company’s digital journey. The seamless integration of third-party apps into the MMI will enhance the driving experience for customers, while the convenient billing process ensures that Audi remains at the forefront of customer satisfaction. The collaboration between Audi and the Volkswagen Group also highlights the company’s commitment to continuously improving its digital offerings and leveraging the expertise of its subsidiaries.