It all sounds a bit James Bond, but it’s true: Sony Ericsson’s new Xperia X1 smartphone will have the ability to take control of the next generation of cars from Swedish manufacturer Saab.
Well, to an extent, anyway - while you won’t be using the touchscreen mobile to drive your motor from afar, the X1 will let you lock the doors, adjust the seats, open the boot and control ambient lighting.
The news comes from the Paris Motor Show, where Saab unveiled its jaw-dropping 9-X Air concept car. The Xperia X1 and the 9-X Air link up via Bluetooth, and the X1’s touchscreen icons will change to allow quick access to the car controls. It’s just a concept at the moment, so there’s a good chance it won’t go into production, but we can expect to see more Sony Ericsson/Saab collaboration in the future - and maybe even that elusive drive-your-car-by-mobile app we’ve been waiting for!
What you need to know
Out: October
Price: £TBC
Basic specs: 3G, Bluetooth, 3.2-megapixel camera, QWERTY keyboard
Killer feature: A true multitasker
Closest rival: HTC Touch Diamond
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I think it is james bond like and I think it has lots of potential. This is clearly just surfacing the technology and see how its perceived to then develop it. I see it cool just wonder if it works through bluetooth or some sort of signal. Obviously because this would determine how far from the car can you operate the capabilities but then, is just for show off and get the girl not so functional i think. GOOD ideas are always welcomed and since im planning on getting this phone i guess thanks,