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Ditch those keys: start your car with your iPhone
Car keys are going the way of the Dodo. We're already starting our cars with the push of a power button rather than with the turn of a key, so it only makes sense that soon enough we won't need to carry keys around at all. And Viper is leading the way towards just such a future with their new iPhone app that unlocks and starts your car for you.
The free app connects to a Viper SmartStart hardware module installed in your car, letting you start your car, turn on the heat, unlock the doors or trunk and turn the alarm on or off. And you don't need to be anywhere near your car for it to work, either, as it works via cell networks. Feels like the future, doesn't it?
By Rokk at 5:49 PM ON 10/13/09
...the future of thievery coming to a mall parking lot near you!
By ehhh at 9:11 PM ON 10/13/09
yayyy hackers can break into my car now
By Anonymous at 10:54 AM ON 10/14/09
so...what if there is no reception where your car is? does that mean you cant unlock it? cause that would be miserable. Cool idea though
By djl at 10:40 AM ON 10/16/09
so now I have to loan my phone as well as my car to my moocher friends?
By TomG1013 at 12:40 PM ON 10/16/09
The future Conan?
By CarpeDiem at 6:03 PM ON 12/28/09
Hey guys, just thought I'd mention that Click-Vroom.com is coming out with a product that does all the SmartStart does and more for less than HALF the price! I don't know how Viper can get away with charging so much, but that will soon end. Enter the DynaKey! I know I'm gettin one!
Incidentally, I own a normal remote starter myself, and there's no need for concern regarding theft because all you're doing is starting your car's engine. The key is needed to drive it off, and the engine will be killed instantly the moment someone tries to change gears otherwise.
As for reception, it would mean that you're unable to start your car from miles away, but you could still get into your car with your keys/remote like you normally would.
Anyway, just thought I'd throw that out there.
Cheers,
Tim G.
on your cellphone!
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CarpeDiem:
Hey guys, just thought I'd mention that Click-Vroom.com is coming out with a product that does all the SmartStart d...More »