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Kiosks, downloads, and automobiles

February 18, 2002

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LAS VEGAS - The future of digital wireless downloading will include zapping MP3 music files to automobiles, according to Delphi Automotive Systems (NYSE:DPH), which will exhibit the wireless technology at the Consumer Electronics Show in Las Vegas on Jan. 8.

Working with Intel Corp., Delphi has equipped an automobile with wireless digital technology that can download video and audio files, along with other wireless data. Intel provided 802.11a wireless networking hardware for the car, while Delphi developed a software system for the demonstration, which will take place at a special display.

Using the car, Delphi will demonstrate how to purchase and download digital files from distances of up to 100 meters. Files can be downloaded to the car from kiosks, home computers, and gas pumps at speeds of up to 54 megabits per second.

"Advancements in wireless data transfer are stretching the possibilities of mobile multimedia entertainment and conveniences for consumers and creating new commercial venues for businesses," Jeff Owens, Delphi Delco Electronic Systems president, said in a news release.

Delphi is one of several technology-based companies experimenting with digital wireless downloads. At the NACS Show in Las Vegas last October, NCR Corp. displayed its Freedom 4 ATM, which can transfer digital wireless downloads of MP3 files directly to personal digital assistants (See story: Kiosk deployers seeks forum at NACS Show).

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