News

Better Cars through Wireless Technology

• 07/16/2001

Oracle Corp. and Wingcast , a joint venture of Ford Motor Company and QUALCOMM Incorporated will form a strategic alliance intended to help the companies develop next-generation wireless telematics services. As part of the alliance, Oracle and Wingcast will immediately form an Accelerated Development Center (ADC) in San Diego to develop, test and implement advanced telematics services. Wingcast has selected Oracle as its premier first strategic technology partner and will deliver its telematics service offerings to consumers based on Oracle's software, including Oracle9i Application Server Wireless and Oracle9i Database. Oracle and Wingcast will accelerate the development of wireless applications and services that benefit consumers both inside and outside vehicles from a variety of devices and access methods, including voice. Wingcast will launch services in model year 2003 vehicles, including Ford Motor Company and Nissan vehicle lines, available in market to consumers mid-2002.

Telematics integrates computing and wireless telecommunications technology with motor vehicles to enhance the safety, productivity and enjoyment of consumers in a mobile environment. Key categories of wireless telematics services that Wingcast and Oracle expect to collaborate on include: communications, infotainment/entertainment, mobile commerce and position commerce, business and personal information and safety/security. Additionally, Oracle and Wingcast plan to work together on integrated true-location services to compliment Wingcast's telematics offering.