Naver is moving to formalize a mobility partnership with Hyundai Motor Group.
Naver said on the 26th that it has loaded key services such as the Naver app, Naver Map, and Whale browser onto Hyundai Motor Group's next-generation infotainment system, "Pleos Connect."
Starting with The New Grandeur and continuing with The All New Avante to be released within the year, the two companies plan to expand cooperation to deliver an innovative mobility experience in Hyundai Motor Group's software-defined vehicles (SDVs) equipped with Pleos Connect, using Naver's artificial intelligence (AI) technologies and services.
In Pleos Connect, users can access the Naver app (Naver Auto App), Naver Map, and Whale browser, all optimized for the mobility environment.
The Naver Auto App provides tailored essential information and content based on the driver's schedule, interests, and current location. It allows users to see the day's weather, top news, and upcoming appointments at a glance. As the time to visit a reserved place approaches, it naturally links to Naver Map navigation, enabling users to explore not only the route but also nearby attractions and popular restaurants.
Naver Map lets drivers quickly access core information needed for driving without separate operations such as CarPlay connection. On the main screen, users can view the expected destination at a glance along with nearby gas stations and a driving score, and also check notable restaurants nearby and available coupon information. The expected destination is recommended by comprehensively analyzing the driver's movement context and the vehicle's status. For example, when fuel or battery is low, it recommends nearby gas stations and electric vehicle charging stations, and during expected commuting hours, it helps users quickly check routes home or to the office.
With the Whale browser, drivers can use a variety of web-based services and content optimized for the in-vehicle environment. In addition to information searches, they can more conveniently explore web content they enjoy in daily life from inside the vehicle.
Choi Soo-yeon, Naver's CEO, said, "Cars are evolving beyond a simple means of transportation into platforms that naturally connect users' daily lives and digital experiences to create new value," adding, "Based on Naver's diverse service expertise and technological capabilities, we plan to expand our partnership with Hyundai Motor Group."