GM Launches In-Vehicle Development App

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Detroit automaker General Motors Co. has launched GM Dev Client, an industry-first app for approved developers to test their applications in a real GM vehicle. In-vehicle testing is available for all developers whose proof of concept has been submitted using GM’s infotainment software development kit that was launched in January, NGI SDK, and has been approved by GM.

“By introducing GM Dev Client, we’re giving developers the missing link they need to finalize their applications,” says John McFarland, director of global digital experience for GM.

Once approval has been received, a developer will provide GM with their vehicle identification number, and GM Dev Client will be available for download in the vehicle’s AppShop from anywhere in the U.S.

Since developers will no longer have to make a trip to Detroit for testing, McFarland expects the expedited development process to ultimately bolster the quality of apps available to the public.

The app’s launch is just the second step taken by GM in its attempt to attract added developers.

“Sharing more emulated data points through the SDK than any other automaker was the first step in opening the door for developers,” says Kent Helfrich, executive director of connected ecosystem integration for General Motors. “After such strong adoption of the SDK, we wanted developers to take the next step and allow real-world testing in our vehicles.”

GM is expected to offer templated framework, such as a media player layout, for developers by the end of 2017.