Continental Shows Off Private and Public Infotainment Modes
Continental claims it has developed a dynamically operating infotainment display system that can switch between private and public modes.
Its Switchable Privacy Display is said to be able to allow front passengers to use multimedia content such as videos or the infotainment system without distracting the driver from road traffic. If necessary and the traffic situation permits, all vehicle passengers can optionally be given access to this content by means of a switchover.
Although privacy functions have been used for some time for laptop and smartphone displays, they were not previously suitable for use in the automotive sector. Continental says using private mode prevents content from being viewed by people in their immediate vicinity.
It is achieved for in-car use by combining the light in privacy mode in such a way that less than 1% of light emission is received by the driver. This does not impair their awareness. At the same time, the display generates a high-quality image. By switching the privacy function on or off, the display makes content visible either to only the front passenger or to all passengers. The market launch of the new Switchable Privacy Display is planned for 2024.
“Modern vehicles are increasingly becoming smartphones on wheels for drivers and passengers. Driver distraction is still one of the main causes of traffic accidents. With our new display solution, we are therefore aiming for a digital experience that minimizes distraction,” says Philipp von Hirschheydt, head of Continental´s user experience business area. “The user experience is becoming a fundamentally distinguishing feature and game changer in the mobility of tomorrow. The crucial factor here is that we also provide the front passenger with new infotainment options.”
— Paul Myles is a seasoned automotive journalist based in Europe. Follow him on Twitter @Paulmyles_
