Automatic Launches App Store for Cars, New Adapter

Automatic today announced some major new features for both the app and the dongle. First, the company is announcing the Automatic App Gallery -- the app store for cars. Automatic notes that over twenty apps exist on the app store already, which can help you do everything from managing your mileage as a business-related expense, to Yo-ing your friends when you're on your way. There is even a Nest app that can control your thermostat as you arrive to your home. Other apps include Jawbone, IFTTT, DashCommand, Concur, Expensify, Xero, YourMechanic, Harry’s LapTimer, RescueTime and SherpaShare.

“The next wave of connected devices poised to change the world are those we’ve been using for decades: our cars,” said Thejo Kote, Founder and CEO of Automatic. “Just as the iPhone App Store unlocked the power of the smartphone, we’ve built an open platform that makes it possible for the world’s best developers to build amazing apps for your car.”

In addition to an app gallery, Automatic also launched a new adapter today. The company noted that many of the most highly requested features required new hardware, so the company spend the last year working on an entirely new dongle. While the adapter looks the same, it has all new internals making it faster and more reliable, as well as its own GPS chip, so every trip is logged. Finally, the new Automatic has dual Bluetooth capabilities so third party apps can stream data from the car's onboard computer in real time.


Since launching over two years ago, Automatic has made lots of changes and improvements to its app by launching a web dashboard, adding fuel level readings, and partnering with different companies and apps.

Automatic is giving current owners a $20 discounted upgrade if they wish to purchase the new unit. It is available for pre-order on Automatic's website for $99.

You can download the Automatic app from the App Store for free, but note you'll need an adapter to use the app.