Texas Instruments has launched a family of wireless combo-connectivity solutions for the automotive industry at the CES show. The new the WiLink 8Q system-on-chip family features Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, Bluetooth low energy, NFC and GNSS options “for multimedia streaming, hands free calling and A2DP stereo with easy pairing.”

“Wireless connectivity is becoming a key feature in automobiles for sharing and viewing content from smartphones and tablets to in-car systems, easy pairing of devices, navigation and replacement of expensive cables for in-car communication,” says TI.

“Delivering the familiar experience consumers have with smartphones and the tablets into the automobile to share information and content from drivers’ and passengers’ devices is driving the need for strong wireless connectivity solutions,” explains Mattias Lange, automotive connectivity product line manager for TI’s wireless connectivity solutions division. “Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, NFC and GNSS have to work together seamlessly as integrated parts of the entire system.”

Initial parts are expected to sample in 2Q 2013 and should be in production in early 2014, says TI, though WiLink 8Q solutions are intended only for high-volume automotive manufacturers and will not be available through distributors.

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