OnStar Mobile App Services on Tap for Most 2011 GM Vehicles

DETROIT — OnStar on Thursday said it is getting ready to extend mobile app technology on most 2011 Chevrolet, Cadillac, Buick and GMC vehicles, with "features tailored specifically for each brand's customers."

The details will be "revealed in totality when the brands begin bringing their apps to market in the months ahead," said OnStar in a statement.

The mobile app services will be available on such vehicles as the 2011 Chevrolet Cruze and 2011 Cadillac CTS Coupe. The 2011 Chevrolet Volt will get a unique app that will be launched with the vehicle, GM announced earlier.

The brand-specific mobile apps will use OnStar technology to let owners activate "all of the functions available on a traditional vehicle key fob — remote start, horn and lights and door lock/unlock — from their smart phones," said GM. Drivers do not have to be within a set distance or "even have their keys with them" to control the functions, the automaker explained.

The apps will also provide such information as fuel tank level and range, remaining oil life, current and recommended tire pressure and lifetime average miles per gallon.

"We're working aggressively to bring the Chevrolet, Cadillac, Buick and GMC applications to market as soon as possible," said Joel Ewanik, GM marketing vice president. "Because we know that each brand's customers have different tastes, wants and needs, the apps will be very specifically tailored to offer them the services they value most."

Inside Line says: OnStar leverages the power of the smartphone to keep current with its customers. — Anita Lienert, Correspondent