Mercedes-Benz integrates smartwatch functions in connected cars

German car maker Mercedes-Benz has developed an app for the Pebble smartwatch that enables a range of information and infotainment functions. Pebble is a wrist-wearable mobile device running its own operating system that invites developers to create custom applications. Unlike Samsung’s competing Gear, which serves as an alternate interface for the Galaxy Note 3 phone, the Pebble stands alone as a wearable computer. In addition to its new Pebble app, Mercedes-Benz is also developing an app for Google Glass.

By choosing app development for existing devices, Mercedes takes a quicker path to market than inventing hardware from scratch. Nissan has recently shown an inclination for the slower, but arguably sexier route with its Nissan 3E, a complete alternative to Glass. (Details presumably forthcoming, but this video is clearly meant to stir the imagination.)

The Mercedes/Pebble app is marketed as a general information assistant, checking car diagnostics, door-lock status when away from the vehicle, and warning of bad traffic while driving. Infotainment options come into the picture with the Pebble’s three surface buttons, which can be programmed to control the car’s media system, according to the company’s press release.

In developing for Pebble, Mercedes is playing at an intersection of three hot technology and auto issues: driving safety in digitally complex cars, wearable technology, and “the Internet of things” — a tech meme which foretells network connectivity of day-to-day objects. the car company will show off its new Pebble functionality at the upcoming CES show in Las Vegas.