Hyundai, Kia, and Samsung have joined forces to create a next-generation infotainment system that will link software-defined vehicles from the automakers with smartphones. This collaboration, alongside Hyundai Motor Group’s global software centre, 42dot, will integrate future Hyundai and Kia models into Samsung’s ‘SmartThings’ ecosystem, allowing vehicle owners to operate smart Samsung devices remotely via an Internet of Things (IoT) platform.

This partnership will enable drivers to control smart home devices, like Samsung air conditioners, wirelessly from their vehicles. Additionally, the ‘SmartThings Find’ feature will allow Hyundai and Kia drivers to track their vehicles using crowdsourced data from millions of Samsung Galaxy devices, enhancing vehicle security. If a vehicle is stolen, this system could help locate it globally.

Paul Cheun, Samsung’s CTO, emphasised that the collaboration will extend SmartThings’ convenience beyond the home and into vehicles, offering new lifestyles and services for customers. Hyundai and Kia also plan to launch new services tailored to their customers’ daily experiences, including a vehicle app market for software-defined vehicles.

The expanded SmartThings platform will allow in-vehicle health monitoring through Samsung Galaxy devices and wearables like smartwatches. The new infotainment system is slated for unveiling in 2026, though details about its integration into production models have not yet been disclosed. Chang Song, president of Hyundai’s Advanced Vehicle Platform Division, emphasised the goal of enhancing mobility by seamlessly integrating vehicles with smartphones for a personalised driving experience.