Mercedes-Benz has recently announced the launch of its all-new purpose-built operating system, MB.OS, which will power its future vehicles. The software is designed to run on supercomputers and a comprehensive suite of sensors to enable the brand to climb towards self-driving functionality.
The MB.OS is built on Mercedes Modular Architecture (MMA) and uses chip-to-cloud architecture to offer an all-new infotainment suite and autonomous driving features. In addition to this, Mercedes has also partnered with Google to create the next-gen navigation system, which will integrate Google Maps into the car.
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One of the most exciting features of MB.OS is the Chip-to-cloud IoT, which mitigates the chances of bad actors breaching devices by removing potential gateways for hackers to exploit. This technology is especially important to ensure the security of Mercedes’ highly connected, lounge-like cabin and self-driving car ambitions.
During a recent conference, Ola Källenius, CEO of Mercedes-Benz, and Markus Schäfer, Chief Tech Officer, demonstrated the over-the-air Google ‘Places Details’ function and emphasized the security improvements made by adopting chip-to-cloud architecture. They also highlighted the unique customer ID feature of MB.OS, which ensures privacy by design and transparency with customers.
In terms of entertainment options, MB.OS will support a wealth of features, including gaming, movie streaming, conference-calling, and personalized scenting. The infotainment package is said to be vastly superior to smartphone mirroring and will also be cinematic by design.
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MB.OS will support SAE Level 3 autonomous driving, enabling drivers to be in a specific ‘self-driving’ lane on the motorway or in a traffic jam ‘chauffeur’ that moves the car forward without needing the driver’s attention. Mercedes is hoping to support self-driving speeds of up to 80mph, surpassing the UK’s regulated speed of 37mph.
Mercedes has invested heavily in research and development of self-driving cars, and the launch of MB.OS is not surprising. The brand has worked with selected partners to deliver this new software platform, including Luminar, which is providing Lidar sensors, and Nvidia Drive, which is powering the artificial intelligence capabilities and remote updates.
