Tata Motors Uses Harman Ignite to Power its App Store in Passenger Cars

Tata Motors has chosen Harman’s Ignite platform to power its default app store for Android-based in-vehicle infotainment systems. The Ignite platform is optimised for automotive applications and promises to help consumers extend their digital lives into their vehicles while allowing OEMs to customise the user experience with their own branding, and control app distribution. Harman will host Tata’s Arcade.ev app suite, which is already available in the Tata Nexon.ev and Punch.ev.

Tata Motors will also be able to monetise in-vehicle services and digital experiences. Car owners will be able to find apps for entertainment, gaming, media streaming, productivity, EV charging, navigation, travel assistance, and various other purposes. Apps currently available include Gaana, JioSaavn, TuneIn Radio, and Pocketcasts, along with some games. 

The Ignite Store is based on the Android Automotive Operating System and third-party developers can integrate their own offerings while users are promised a simple UI and security protections. Harman provides developer support and also tests and validates apps that are published to the Ignite Store. Payment processing for apps, subscriptions, and in-app content is also supported.  

The Nexon.ev can be configured with up to a 12.3-inch touchscreen powered by Harman along with a 9-speaker cinematic JBL sound system, while the rest of Tata’s current passenger EV offerings are also listed with Harman infotainment systems. 

The US-based company has been operating a research and development facility in Karnataka since 2009 and has a manufacturing plant in Pune. It has over 9,000 employees in India across eight cities. It says over 50 million vehicles currently on roads around the world are equipped with its connected car systems.  

Also read: 2024 TOTMs: Tata Nexon.ev Wins Viewers’ Choice Car Of The Year

Harman, an independent subsidiary of Samsung Electronics, is best known for its consumer, professional and in-vehicle audio products which are sold under brand names including Harman/Kardon, JBL, AKG, Mark Levinson, Soundcraft, and Bang & Olufsen Automotive. It has in recent years expanded into smart in-vehicle software and services as well as passenger safety, telematics, digital cockpits, augmented reality, and cybersecurity.