Hyundai, Kia, Samsung Partnership Enhances SDV Experience

In a significant move towards the future of transportation, Hyundai Motor Company and Kia Corporation have announced a strategic partnership with Samsung Electronics. This collaboration aims to enhance the integration between software-defined vehicles (SDVs) and smartphones, marking a pivotal step in the evolution of mobility services. The signing ceremony took place at Samsung Electronics' Seoul R&D Campus, with key figures from all three companies in attendance, including Chang Song, President of Hyundai Motor Group's Advanced Vehicle Platform Division, and Paul (Kyungwhoon) Cheun, President and CTO of Samsung Electronics' Device eXperience Division.

As the automotive industry shifts towards SDVs, Hyundai and Kia are preparing to offer a range of innovative in-vehicle services. They are developing a next-generation infotainment system in collaboration with 42dot, Hyundai Motor Group's global software center. This new system is designed to create a user-centered vehicle environment, enhancing connectivity and providing personalized services that go beyond mere transportation.

"Our goal is to enrich Hyundai Motor and Kia customers' mobility experience by offering personalized services that extend beyond transportation, seamlessly integrating vehicles with smartphones," stated Chang Song. This vision is set to materialize with the unveiling of the new infotainment system in 2026.

One of the key features of this partnership is the integration of Samsung Electronics' "SmartThings" platform. This technology will allow Hyundai and Kia to link SDVs with the smartphone ecosystem, enriching the overall customer experience. By connecting with the global Internet of Things (IoT) platform, users will enjoy a seamless transition between their vehicles and smartphones, making the use of SDVs more convenient and efficient.

Paul (Kyungwhoon) Cheun emphasized the benefits of this collaboration, stating, "Through our collaboration with Hyundai and Kia, customers will experience the convenience of SmartThings not only at home but also in their vehicles, transcending space." This integration will also introduce a vehicle location verification service, which will be enhanced through the "SmartThings Find" feature, allowing users to track their vehicles globally.

Customers will be able to easily check their vehicle's location through the Connected Car Service app, which is particularly useful in situations like forgetting where they parked or in the unfortunate event of theft. Even those whose vehicles are not registered with the Connected Car Service can access their vehicle's location via the Samsung SmartThings app.

Hyundai and Kia are also simplifying the registration process for new users by linking accounts with Samsung Electronics. Looking ahead, they plan to offer services tailored to customers' lifestyles, including healthcare and pet care, while continuing to work closely with Samsung to enhance mobility experiences.

In addition to these advancements, Hyundai and Kia, along with 42dot, are committed to creating a seamless connection between vehicles and smartphones. They aim to introduce new services that prioritize user experience and convenience. This includes sharing vehicle data application programming interfaces (APIs) and software development kits (SDKs) with various partners, including Samsung Electronics, through their next-generation infotainment system.

Furthermore, Hyundai and Kia are set to host the "2025 Developer Conference" in the first half of next year, where they will announce plans for an SDK that allows external developers to create innovative applications for SDVs. This initiative is expected to foster a vibrant ecosystem of applications that enhance the user experience.

The partnership between Hyundai, Kia, and Samsung Electronics represents a forward-thinking approach to the future of mobility. By integrating advanced technology with user-centered design, these companies are not only enhancing the driving experience but also paving the way for a more connected and convenient future. As the automotive landscape continues to evolve, such collaborations will be crucial in shaping the next generation of transportation solutions.