OnStar To Launch Developer Platform For API In 2012

OnStar is preparing to launch a platform for third-party developers that would allow them to utilize its API, GM Authority has learned from a source with a proven track record. According to the source, OnStar is very focused on providing developers a great deal of access to its data and systems, but is taking steps to safeguard its network while installing a “kill switch” that would grant it control over third party apps.

The “kill switch” would provide a high level of security and peace of mind, for rogue apps — for example, while preventing unauthorized access of a user’s connection to the OnStar network (that eventually connects to the vehicle). The first trial stages of third party API access have already been released earlier in 2012 in the form of RelayRide Car Sharing and Carma ride sharing applications developed in limited settings that are not widely available.

The source also said that the API could theoretically be used to develop applications that replace or complement OnStar’s own RemoteLink app, which currently is only compatible with vehicles of certain model years — a situation that has caused some owners of late model-year GM products grief.