Roadside assistance service OnStar is expanding its capabilities and beta testing new social features.  Soon drivers will hear their incoming text messages and Facebook wall posts read aloud, and they will be able to send text messages or post to Facebook.  The posts include transcriptions using voice recognition technology as well as a link to an audio file.  There were rumors of Twitter integration with OnStar last year, but as far as I can tell, it never happened.

In other news, automotive audio player Harman announced the purchase of Aha Mobile, a provider of on-demand mobile and location-based Internet content services.  They convert web-based social media, news and entertainment content and stream it to your radio or smartphone.  They also focus on making access safe and smart (based on where you are headed).

Both announcements highlight the market’s response to both the growing demands for always staying connected and the need to address the related safety issues caused by drivers using their gadgets with their hands.  They are also trying to compete with Ford’s Sync technology which already supports text messaging.  These features are increasingly becoming what sells cars.

If they can find ways to keep us safe and informed (many might question whether Facebook truly informs), I am all for it.  Chris Preuss, the President of OnStar, mentioned on CNBC this morning that it is difficult to predict how government regulation of driving habits will play out, which could limit investment in these technologies.  There is a fear that accidents caused by distracted drivers will force legislators to limit communication options.  In this case, I believe we need good technology that is easy for the driver to understand and use and not new laws.  Hands off will work best.

Photo by DioMakr.