HOLLAND – Automotive component manufacturer Denso International America Inc. has acquired Holland-based InfiniteKey Inc., along with several key patents and research and development resources. The terms were not disclosed. Denso is the North American regional headquarters of Denso Corp.
Many cars today have push button ignition which will start your car as long as you have have you vehicle’s key fob with you. This requires a driver to carry around an extra item in their pocket.
InfinteKey has developed software which allows a smartphone to be used as a “key”, to control many of the functions that used to be only possible with the key fob. For example, a user may set up InfinteKey to unlock a car’s doors automatically when outside the vehicle.
This application can be used for car-sharing service, so the vehicle is ready once the driver approaches it carrying their smartphone. InfinteKey addresses these problems, but goes beyond it, allowing a smartphone to be used as a key for other functions in the era of smart mobility services.
Denso says the acquisition provides foundational pieces to developing phone-as-a-key technology and increases its lead in developing and deploying smartphone-based automotive access, a critical component of the company’s strategy to create a future with frictionless mobility.
This type of technology will become increasingly important for automakers, as ridesharing and driverless services progress beyond the need for keys, according to Denso.
“This acquisition demonstrates Denso’s aggressive approach to supporting startups and technologies we view as significantly valuable for the future of the transportation industry,” says Tony Cannestra, director of corporate ventures. “Whether it’s through direct investment or acquisition, Denso will find a way to support and partner with companies to help transform mobility.”
“When we consider the future of mobility, the customer experience is always at the forefront of our design,” said Cannestra. “Eliminating the need for physical keys will create a headache-free experience for car owners, and ridesharing and driverless services users,” says Bill Foy, senior vice president of Engineering, Denso International America. “This acquisition brings us one step closer to making this experience a reality and advancing vehicle access technologies.”
