“With the acquisition, DENSO’s aim is, of course, to develop virtual key technology that could allow drivers to access their cars using their mobile devices.”
Automotive components supplier DENSO has acquired InfiniteKey, a specialist in mobile key technology.
It’s the latest sign of the growing convergence between the automotive and IT sectors as the smart car continues to emerge and evolve, with the announcement arriving soon after the news that DENSO had partnered with NEC Platforms to establish a joint venture focused on smart car technologies. The acquisition of InfiniteKey itself, however, was completed in October, with Michigan-based InfiniteKey now acting as a satellite office of DENSO’s North American division.
With the acquisition, DENSO’s aim is, of course, to develop virtual key technology that could allow drivers to access their cars using their mobile devices. InfiniteKey’s solutions are based on BLE and microlocating technologies, essentially turning smartphones into key fobs.
In a statement announcing the acquisition, DENSO asserted that this kind of technology “will become increasingly important for automakers, as ridesharing and driverless services progress beyond the need for keys,” with DENSO International America Engineering SVP Bill Foy adding, “Eliminating the need for physical keys will create a headache-free experience for car owners, and ridesharing and driverless services users.”
Terms of the acquisition have not been disclosed.
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