Volkswagen demos in-car control of Magenta SmartHome at IFA 2017
Volkswagen and Deutsche Telekom presented prototype integration of smart home controls in the e-Golf at IFA 2017, using the car’s infotainment system and MirrorLink-enabled smartphones.
Volkswagen and Deutsche Telekom jointly demonstrated a prototype system at IFA 2017 in Berlin that allows drivers to control smart home functions directly from their car’s infotainment screen. The technology was shown in a Volkswagen e-Golf, with visitors able to adjust temperature, deactivate the security system and switch exterior lights at a connected home.
The integration relies on Telekom’s Magenta SmartHome platform, which manages compatible devices such as thermostats, lighting and security systems. To use the feature, drivers need an Android smartphone with MirrorLink support and Volkswagen’s Car-Net App Connect. Once configured, the car’s infotainment system gains access to the Magenta SmartHome app, allowing for remote control of home devices while on the move.
How the system works
Volkswagen’s approach uses MirrorLink to display and operate the Magenta SmartHome app from the connected smartphone on the car’s central touchscreen. According to the demonstration, the system could simulate presence at home by activating lights, music or even vacuum cleaner noises through the so-called “house sitter” function. This feature aims to enhance home security while the owner is away.
- Requires a MirrorLink-compatible Android phone (around 50 models supported, including Samsung, HTC, Sony and LG).
- Car must support Car-Net App Connect (standard on most Volkswagens since May 2015).
- Home must be equipped with Deutsche Telekom’s Magenta SmartHome system.
Availability and limitations
Volkswagen said it planned to introduce the smart home connectivity feature later in September 2017, but only for users with homes already set up for Telekom’s Magenta SmartHome. There was no mention of support for other smart home platforms such as Google Home or Apple HomeKit at launch. The system also requires a compatible Android phone, as iPhone support was not announced at the time.
Volkswagen’s move followed similar efforts by other manufacturers to integrate consumer electronics and vehicle functions, with BMW and Ford also developing remote-control features for cars and homes. For more on the trend towards in-car technology, see Ford’s Bill Ford urges opt-out for new car tech features.
