Originally Set For May Release, Automatic Link Car-Connected System Delayed Until August
May 25, 2013
About a couple of months ago, we told you about Automatic Link, a yet to be launched "smart driving assistant" from San Francisco-based and Y Combinator-funded startup Automatic Labs. Automatic Link, which is essentially a car plug-in adapter that connects to a companion iPhone app, was originally scheduled for release this month. But Automatic Labs has just announced that its release has been delayed until August.
As reported by Engadget, the postponement has been made by Automatic Labs on account of the companion iPhone app's incompletion.
The startup explains:
Our small team has been working hard to build a seamless connected car experience that works on thousands of makes and models, and we've made tremendous progress. The good news is that the Link – that little device that plugs into your car – is ready and being manufactured! Unfortunately, we underestimated the time needed to complete the iPhone app and we're sorry to say that it won't be ready until the end of August.As noted by my colleague Brent, the on-board diagnostics port needed by the Automatic Link is standard in every car manufactured since 1996 in the U.S. When connected to the port, the device works in tandem with its companion iPhone app to present users with various data concerning their vehicles and driving habits. If you can't see the video embedded above, please click here. Watch the video above for an overview of the features of Automatic Link, including a Crash Alert option that automatically sends help in the event of an accident. Compatible with iPhone 4S and iPhone 5, the Automatic Link may be preordered for $69.95 through its official website. As mentioned, it's set to be released in August. But Automatic Labs notes that if you preordered early, you may sign up to receive the Automatic Link for use with a beta version of the companion iPhone app. Although stable, the beta version of the app lacks certain features like the aforementioned Crash Alert and support for multiple cars and users. If you do decide to opt in, you can expect to receive the Automatic Link next month.
