Operator's LTE Multicast technology is coming into the limelight this year as the highly efficient delivery of content to simulteneous users enables Operators to power a large number of services - from broadcasting of major events, to mass software upgrades on connected machines and devices including M2M devices/equipments and location specific broadcasting services. The technology is able to save on bandwidth, reduce costs for users and network operators and is a perfect solution for many applications that require mass scale and simulteneous delivery of digital content.
In line with the development in the LTE Multicast space, Visteon, a provider of innovative products for the auto industry is debuting a connected vehicle equipped with the technology at the ongoing International CES. According to Visteon, the connected car leverages Verizon's LTE Multicast technology, which is based on the Enhanced Multimedia Broadcast Multicast Service (eMBMS).
According to Visteon, Verizon's LTE Multicast technology enables its Connected Vehicle Hub to communicate with an embedded automotive telematics module designed to receive Firmware Over-the-Air (FOTA) updates. This allows automakers to simultaneously transmit FOTA updates to vehicles in an entire fleet, manufacturing plant or region. The technology also allows intelligent targeting, transmitting the information based on a vehicle's make, model and electrical and component architecture, as well as customer and location – creating a host of potential connected applications ranging from personalization to enhanced location-based services.
On top of this, Visteon's Connected Vehicle Hub features Visteon's rear seat infotainment, which highlights broadcast entertainment delivered via eMBMS where multiple channels of programming can be streamed directly to vehicles equipped with an LTE Multicast capable telematics control unit and display screens, added the company.
Martin T. Thall, Visteon's executive vice president and president, electronics
By working with Verizon, we're able to offer vehicle manufacturers an unparalleled solution for FOTA updates. Our solution significantly reduces network costs and is designed to provide higher bandwidth and more capability and security than current alternatives.
Parissa Pandkhou, director, Product and New Business Innovation at Verizon
The automotive industry is quickly becoming the next frontier in connectivity. Visteon is at the forefront of creating new solutions that tap in to the potential of LTE Multicast technology and Verizon's 4G LTE network that deliver real benefits to automakers and ultimately to consumers.
