Automatic Labs' $99.95 Automatic Link accessory got the Apple endorsement and is now available for purchase at abou 250 store locations as well as online.
Connecting to a car's standard ODB-II port (standard in cars made after 1996), the Automatic Link pulls driving data by connecting to an iPhone (4s and higher) app through Bluetooth. The device can then display driving habits to save gas or remember where a driver parked. More effective features include the ability to understand or clear the vehicle's "check engine" light and automatically call for help and alert loved ones of a serious automobile accident. Once the device is purchased, there is no additional subscription fee.
The Automatic Link has earned critical acclaim and awards like winning Fast Company's Innovation by Design Awards and ITS America Smart Solution Spotlight since its announcement in March 2013. Before getting Apple's sales backing, the device was sold exclusively through its own website.
Automatic Lab's CEO and co-founder Thejo Kote appreciated Apple boosting their profile.
"Apple sets a high bar for the quality of products they carry in their stores. We're thrilled to make Automatic available to millions of people who trust Apple to curate beautiful and easy to use products," Kote said.
Kote also pointed out the company's goal of providing a long list of quantifying vehicle data. As more people use Automatic Link, the device will not only access your own vehicle data but compare it to thousands of other cars of the same make and model.
However, for now, the usefulness of the device is being questioned by many, including GIGAOM's Kevin Fitchard.
"While I've been impressed by the app's ease of use and have been fascinated by the sudden flood of new driving data, I have to admit I don't find the data all that useful," wrote Fitchard. "The app alerted to me some of my less laudable driving habits, but apart from locating my parked car, I don't find much occasion to access Automatic's data."
Though it has Apple's backing, the device is also set to support select Android phones in December.
