OnStar, General Motors’ telematics subsidiary, has released the next-generation of its RemoteLink mobile app. Dubbed RemoteLink 2.0, the redesigned app features a new look and capabilities. It is available now for Apple iOS and Android users.
The result of years of customer feedback, RemoteLink 2.0 includes a new user experience to streamline access to information and application commands. It also provides users with more information, including access to OnStar account details that were previously only available by phone or through the OnStar.com website. The latter part makes sense, as consumers today are increasingly relying on mobile devices to manage their accounts, and RemoteLink now offers access to key OnStar account information and settings through a smartphone interface.
“The new version of the app is designed to be more intuitive for customers, with a simpler, cleaner design,” said Dan Kinney, director, User Experience, Global Connected Customer Experience, General Motors. “This new user experience should allow our customers to easily find and access all the features RemoteLink has to offer.”
In addition to a redesigned interface and access to OnStar account information, RemoteLink 2.0 also includes the ability to view data consumption and see how much data is left on a particular plan for owners of Chevrolet, Buick, GMC and Cadillac vehicles equipped with OnStar 4G LTE.
The OnStar RemoteLink features a wide array of functionality, including the ability to check a vehicle’s vitals (such as fuel/charge levels, oil life, tire pressure, and odometer readings), perform remote commands, find and send a destination to the vehicle, and set Wi-Fi Hotspot settings for properly-equipped vehicles. The remote features of the app – ability to remotely start/stop an engine with factory-installed remote start, lock and unlock automatic door locks and activate the horn and lights – are included with no subscription cost for five years from delivery on 2014 model year and newer GM vehicles. In addition, the ability to manage the vehicle’s Wi-Fi hotspot is also included for five years on properly-equipped 2015 model year and newer Chevrolet, Buick, GMC and Cadillac vehicles. All other RemoteLink features require a paid OnStar subscription.
The app is available for Apple iOS, Android, Windows Phone and BlackBerry devices. Specifically, the all-new RemoteLink 2.0 is available for Apple iOS and Google Android devices; it will become available for Windows Phone and Blackberry users in coming weeks, according to GM-OnStar.
Comments
There are many refinements and additions I’d like to see; but, overall, version 2 is nicer and seems to send commands/retrieve data somewhat faster. I’m happy that it’s now a universal app that works at native size on the iPad.
When will the app be available for the new BlackBerry Classic?