Mobile hotspot or cellular modem can't be hard to install...How would any of this work without an on-board modem? If the Slate doesn't have internet connectivity then how would this function?
I think one thing to keep in mind is that "simple" and "minimalism" are not just about what the consumer buys, it is also about the focus of engineering resources.I prefer minimal but practical features for this. I say let the guy who wants a fob have a fob. If i want wireless entry and remote entry then let me buy that and install it!
Oh i totally get that aspect if it but once the time and money is allocated to such idea if everyone (fleet and consumer) ask for it they have to respond, and the best part is I don't have to buy a new car for the new feature I can hopefully buy the addon and install it!I think one thing to keep in mind is that "simple" and "minimalism" are not just about what the consumer buys, it is also about the focus of engineering resources.
Slate has a certain amount of resources available to it in both cash and engineering/design teams. Each significant feature like this ability to have optional wireless entry takes a team of people working on it. Even a "tweak" of the rumored existing fleet option to allow consumer access takes resources.
My guess is that once it is out and stable, hopefully some of these resources will be available to work on such desired options based on demand.
Seems like its fairly obtainable. Hopefully they can devote resources to it soon!I reached out in January and suggested adding support for Apple’s CarKey standard. I went as far as sending them a link to the spec sheet. As I understand it it doesn’t require adding anything like cellular, and would greatly improve functionality.
Day to day I only carry my phone and a little 3 card magnetic wallet on the back of it. If I could also not carry car keys because they’re on my phone that would be great. My house keys are on my phone, my driver’s license is on there, etc.
At least for the mobile wallet car keys like Apple CarKey I think they need to from the OEM. Even if it was an additional add-on I could buy after the fact or down the road and add it then, I’d be happy with that.I think tech like Apple Car-Key, on board modems, NFC, mobile hotspots, or even ADAS systems start to eventually invade Slate’s marketplace, it may start to diminish the appeal of the Slate.
While I do believe 3rd party suppliers will pursue this route, it will NEVER be officially endorsed by Slate.