Toyota unveils 'smartphone mirror'

Toyota has launched a new technology which will allow drivers to control their smartphones via their vehicle infotainment system. This is a new solution which mirrors the smartphone display on the car's 7-inch touch screen, a step Toyota describes as a world-first.

Toyota has launched a new technology which will allow drivers to control their smartphones via their vehicle infotainment system.

Toyota Touch Life, announced October 25, is a new solution which mirrors the smartphone display on the car's 7-inch touch screen, a step Toyota describes as a world-first.

By hooking up the system, drivers will be able to control their sm artphone using the vehicle's touch screen or steering-wheel based controllers, with direct access to features such as telephony, apps, music and videos.

Toyota said that Nokia smartphone users would have access to the full functionality of their devices when the vehicle is stationary, and access to essential, non-distracting features on the go.

Apple iPhone users, meanwhile, will have access to apps such as Garmin StreetPilot, internet radio apps AUPEO! and Stitcher, and Facebook and Twitter using the system.

The system is expected to make its debut on the Toyota iQ city car at the end of this year.

Last week, Ford announced an upgrade to its own telematics system Ford Sync, bringing the package the ability to read text messages allowed for all compatible Bluetooth-equipped mobile phones.