Saudi Arabia-based telecommunications firm, Saudi Telecom Company (STC) has entered into a partnership with Irish vehicle software firm Cubic Telecom to develop in-car software solutions for Saudi drivers.
As part of the collaboration, the software will allow STC to easily add a range of in-car services to Saudi vehicles, including an emergency call system that automatically alerts healthcare services in the event of an accident.
Mr. Gerry McQuaid, chief commercial officer at Cubic said, “Basically we partnered with STC as a premier car integrity partner in Saudi Arabia. We are enabling the customer to benefit from a range of safety, entertainment, and navigation features when they purchase the car.”
Similar to every market, Saudi Arabia has strict regulations on how connectivity is handled, he said, adding that the software collaboration will make it easier for carmakers and third-party developers to add features.
Gerry McQuaid CCO – Cubic Telecom
“I can’t give a precise date, but in a not-too-distant future you actually don’t need a driving license, the car will actually drive autonomously for the citizens. That is a big difference. Already software solutions can support this capability, but it does need important regulations to be introduced to start with semi-driving. You can request the car on your smartphone, and it will drive to you to get in and the car will drive to your destination. You can listen to music, do some work, and have a conversation while the car drives. This is not science fiction.”
In terms of safety regulations, Mr. McQuaid explained that the software contains an “emergency call” system that will automatically warn emergency services in the event of an accident, include information about the incident, and indicate whether it required attention.
Mr. Barry Napier, CEO of Cubic Telecom commented, “We are delighted to be working with STC to help car manufacturers activate new opportunities in a very significant market.”
“Partnering with Cubic enables STC as a digital enabler to simplify the delivery and management of advanced in-car services and gives us a foundation for innovating and meeting the changing needs of customers as new services evolve,” stated Dr. Sultan bin Saeed, STC’s vice president of business development.
Cubic Telecom has already collaborated with some of the Gulf region’s largest network operators. And, it also offers connected tech solutions to over 5 million vehicles and smartphones in at least 100 countries.
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