CES 2022 Reveals Cars as Connected Living Rooms and High-Tech Devices
Automakers at CES 2022 showcase vehicles as third spaces focused on entertainment and connectivity rather than just transportation. Advanced chips and digital cockpits take center stage to power these new in-vehicle experiences.
Automakers and tech companies at CES 2022 make it clear that the modern vehicle is about much more than simple transportation. Instead of just moving passengers from point A to point B, these companies now view the car as a third space where people can work, relax, watch television, and connect with their other digital devices. This shifting paradigm turns the vehicle into a connected device and proactive assistant that anticipates the needs of its occupants.
The biggest themes at the virtual event revolve around new in-vehicle experiences and the advanced driver-assistance systems that enable them. Companies introduce digital cockpits equipped with various "co-pilot" features, ranging from intelligent voice assistants to automated driving controls. These new systems emphasize continuous entertainment and streaming video capabilities, which require massive amounts of underlying processing power to function smoothly.
To support these demanding digital environments, the automotive chip industry plays a major role at this year's show. Qualcomm expands its presence by attracting new original equipment manufacturers to its Snapdragon Digital Chassis, a suite of cloud-connected platforms. This comprehensive system includes specialized chips and software for automated driving, 5G connectivity, vehicle-to-everything communication, and next-generation infotainment, with major automakers like Volvo and Honda already signing on.