Honda Launching HondaLink Internet Connectivity System in 2013 Honda Accord

Honda announced that it will be launching a new system in the 2013 Accord that will permit Internet connectivity through a smartphone. The system is called HondaLink and it will depend on an iPhone or Android smartphone to access the Internet. There is a wide array of content that can be accessed, including audible Facebook and Twitter updates, local restaurants, podcasts, audiobooks, and Internet radio stations.

Other motor companies like Toyota, Hyundai, and Ford have had Internet connectivity enabled in their vehicles for a couple years, but Honda has been holding out, until now. This will surely bring Honda’s in-car experience up to par with its competitors. Honda is initiating this system in the 2013 Accord but will later add the system to the 2013 Crosstour.

In order to organize and consolidate HondaLink content, there is an available HondaLink application for smartphones.  This application enables users to create presets for pages they’d like to visit. One of the advantages to HondaLink is that you can access presets via the vehicle display, using either steering wheel controls, center display controls, or voice control. The key thing for this to be successful amongst users is the preset. It’s important to prepare content before entering the vehicle as to minimize in-car distractions.

Unlike GM’s OnStar and Hyundai’s BlueLink, HondaLink is free. Whereas those other two systems depend on telematics and hardware installed in the car, HondaLink exclusively relies on the mobile connection of the smartphone to access content.  

Honda appears to be planning to offer HondaLink as a premium option. However, spokeswoman Alicia Jones declined to discuss details on pricing. 

Visit the autoMedia.com Honda Research Center for quick access to reviews, pricing, photos, mpg and more. Make sure to follow autoMedia.com on Twitter and Facebook.

2013 Honda Accord Official Website

Find a Local Honda Dealer