If you’ve been shopping for an Audi A4 or A5, here’s one more (geeky) reason to be interested: both 2013 models will come with in-car WiFi, which is connected to a 3G modem, which will work on the T-Mobile network. Yes, your car will now have its own SIM card (and wireless bill of $30 or so). This WiFi setup will be able to connect up to 8 devices to the internet, and we assume that it also enables local network communications in case folks in the back want to network-play.
Why T-Mobile (and why 3G?!) you may ask. Well, the fact that T-Mobile is a holding company for Deutsche Telekom has probably something to do with it. Also, tests and qualifications for any technology that gets into a car is often long and tedious, which would explain the ‘3G” part. Note that “3G” may also mean HSPA+, which we call “4G” in the USA… (learn more about 4G networks) so we’ll need to take a closer look at the specs.
Anyhow, some connectivity is infinitely better than no connectivity, so this is good progress. Additionally, Audi is adding a new in-dash navigation system that is powered by a Tegra processor (I’m guessing Tegra 2). Unfortunately, the system doesn’t run Android, so you can expect some oddities in terms of user interface, but that huge screen still beats a handheld GPS any day.