Samsung announces Drive Link in-car app for Galaxy S3

KOREAN HARDWARE FIRM Samsung has launched an in-car app for the Galaxy S3 named Drive link, which allows drivers to listen to music and make hands-free phone calls while being guided via GPS navigation.

The app's welcome screen displays widgets for local weather and upcoming appointments, alongside large icons for navigation and calls.

"Drive Link has complete navigation functionality using the smartphone's GPS features, allowing the user to select preset, recent or favorite destinations, or search for a specific address," the firm said in its Global electronics blog on Tuesday.

"If a text message with address information is received while using the App, users can set the address as their destination with just a single click on the text."

Drive Link can also connect to the car's in-Vehicle Infotainment system through the MirrorLink app. This allows drivers to use text-to-speech technology so text messages received on smartphones can be read aloud. Stored music can also be stream through the car's speakers using this app.

Meeting the safety regulations established by the Japanese Automotive Manufacturers Association, Samsung's Drive Link is available now in the UK from Samsung Apps.

Samsung said Drive Link will remain exclusive to the Galaxy S3 for the time being, but will be available on other Android handsets "in the near future". µ