Sierra Wireless rolled out its AirPrime AR7550 embedded wireless module, designed for automotive telematics and infotainment systems and specifically developed for use on Verizon Wireless' (NYSE:VZ) LTE network.
The module has received technical approval for operation on the Verizon network, and samples are available to OEM customers for testing and development purposes. Variants of the AirPrime AR7 module for LTE networks in other areas of the world are also sampling now.
The AirPrime AR7550 features a dedicated application processor, an open-source application framework and integrated cloud connectivity, said Sierra Wireless. Though the AR7550 is the first entry in Sierra Wireless' AirPrime AR7 series of automotive-grade modules for LTE networks, it is also part of the third generation of the vendor's modules for LTE networks.
The vision for integrating LTE technology into vehicles revolves around delivering high performance in-vehicle wireless connectivity infotainment, navigation and location-based services, noted Sierra Wireless.
Verizon Wireless has powered General Motors' OnStar offering since the service launched in the 1990s, but AT&T (NYSE:T) is set to replace Verizon in that role in 2014. Verizon Communications acquired Hughes Telematics last year for $612 million, a deal that might have soured the relationship between GM and Verizon.
For more:
- see this Sierra Wireless release
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