Gallery: The Unending Struggle to Make Your Car Feel Like Your Phone

  • Image may contain Transportation Vehicle Automobile Car Cushion and Machine
    Jack Bool for WIRED
    01

    323A3391.jpg

    While many automakers struggle with new infotainment systems, Tesla has made waves with a huge center screen and over-the-air updates.
  • Image may contain Helmet Clothing Apparel and Steering Wheel
    Jack Bool for WIRED
    02

    323A3378.jpg

    The ability to update software using a WiFi connection means Tesla cars can improve, even after they're sold.
  • Image may contain Machine Human Person Gearshift Electronics Headphones Headset and Camera
    Jack Bool for WIRED
    03

    wheel-clutch-1.jpg

    Durability and safety requirements make it tricky to simply shove the latest mobile tech into the vehicle.
  • Image may contain Cushion Cell Phone Electronics Mobile Phone Phone Headrest Screen Monitor and Display
    Jack Bool for WIRED
    04

    monitor-2.jpg

    As more sophisticated driver assistance technologies reach the road, especially those that require access to the cloud, the possibilities for what a car can do and provide expand.
  • Image may contain Cushion Car Vehicle Transportation Automobile and Car Seat
    Jack Bool for WIRED
    05

    323A3504.jpg

    GM’s new Chevrolet Bolt electric vehicle, for example, doesn’t even offer a built-in navigation system.
  • Image may contain Transportation Vehicle Automobile Car Machine Wheel Spoke Alloy Wheel and Steering Wheel
    Jack Bool for WIRED
    06

    323A3513.jpg

    Drivers can instead pair their phone’s mapping app to the center screen.