Apple Inc. (NASDAQ:AAPL) is in the process of patenting a new technology that if implemented could significantly improve how cars communicate, thus reduce crashes on the road. The patent details a system whereby cars can scan the surroundings and communicate with each other with the help of Bluetooth short range wireless technology.
Apple Bluetooth Communication System
Apple’s patent does not describe the Bluetooth technology as a self-driving car but as a blind spot detection system, similar to the one in use in most cars. The tech giant is not the first company to detail a vehicle-to-vehicle communication system.
Broadcom is currently working on a similar technology as the race for features able to power self-driving cars continues to gain momentum. QUALCOMM, Inc. (NASDAQ:QCOM) also boasts of a number of detection systems that incorporate Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, and 3G/4G LTE Capabilities.
Apple Autonomous Cars Plans
Apple’s Chief executive Officer Tim Cook has already confirmed that they are investing a lot on resources and time in the development of autonomous systems.
“We’re focusing on autonomous systems. And clearly, one purpose of autonomous systems are self-driving cars. There are others,” Cook said in an interview with Bloomberg on June 5. The executive is yet to say what they intend to do from the product point of view with regards to the technology.
Initially, it was believed that Apple would come up with its own self-driving car. However, the tech giant recalibrated its ambitions last year to prioritize the development of the technology that powers self-driving cars. Ballooning cost and head count according to reports led to the sudden change in strategy.
The iPhone maker secured a permit from the California Department of Motor Vehicles in April that allows it to carry tests on self-driving cars. It has since emerged that the company might have carried tests on half a dozen cars featuring its technology in public roads. However, the company is yet to confirm the claims.
Apple stock was down by 1.92% in Thursday’s trading session to end the day at $157.86 a share.