Samsung subsidiary Harman is launching a 5G telematics control unit (TCU) using Snapdragon Digital Chassis connected-car technologies from Qualcomm.

The Ready Connect TCU is based on Qualcomm’s Snapdragon Auto 5G Gen 2 modem-RF device, delivering rich in-cabin experiences for consumers while reducing time to market and engineering efforts for OEMs. It was shown at last month’s Mobile World Congress (MWC) in Barcelona.

“Together, Harman and Qualcomm are working to redefine the future of automotive connectivity,” said Pascal Peguret, senior vice president at Harman. “The Ready Connect 5G TCU is a testament to that shared vision, disrupting the traditional TCU approach as an off-the-shelf TCU product. Ready Connect 5G TCU is designed to meet the needs of automakers simply and effectively while expediting the time to market and significantly reducing development cost.”

Jeff Arnold, vice president at Qualcomm (www.qualcomm.com), added: “As pioneers in wireless technologies, Qualcomm is pleased to further strengthen our longstanding relationship with Harman to help bring the Ready Connect 5G TCU to the industry. This product exemplifies our dedication to driving connectivity innovation in the automotive industry, delivering a seamless combination of performance, reliability and cutting-edge features through the utilisation of our Snapdragon modem-RF Gen 2 system.”

Also at MWC, Harman demonstrated its connected in-cabin experience for the automotive industry. Leveraging expertise from its parent company Samsung, Harman developed its smart conformal antenna deployed in its Ready Connect range, resulting in improved packaging design with integrated antenna sub-system and better connectivity performance.

“As the automotive industry continues to transform and embrace emerging technological breakthroughs and heightened consumer expectations, Harman continues to provide innovative new products and experiences for the vehicle,” said Suman Sehra, vice president at Harman. “New additions to the Ready product portfolio underscore the power of collaboration across diverse areas of expertise to boost safety, personalisation and sustainability for automakers and consumers. Harman stands out by delivering products that pave the way for the next generation of connected and autonomous vehicles.”

The firm’s Ready Vision portfolio seamlessly integrates important audio and visual needs for consumers, offering a safer and more informed driving experience that helps keep the driver’s eyes and mind on the road. The latest product in the line, Ready Vision QVue, is powered by Samsung Neo QLED and provides the right information in the right place for reduced distraction and increased engagement, bright illumination in all light conditions, along with size and feature-set flexibility.

Harman (harman.com) designs and engineers connected products for automakers, consumers and enterprises worldwide, including connected car systems, audio and visual products, enterprise automation, and services supporting the IoT. The company has a workforce of approximately 30,000 people across the Americas, Europe and Asia. In 2017, it became a wholly-owned subsidiary of Samsung Electronics (www.samsung.com).