HondaLink Internet streaming launches with redesigned 2013 Accord

Honda will introduce technology, called HondaLink, that links vehicles with the Internet via smartphones with the redesigned 2013 Accord that goes on sale this fall.

The HondaLink app on the driver's phone will access a large menu of information and entertainment services streamed from Aha, a service of audio-equipment supplier Harman.

Honda's goal with HondaLink is to enable drivers to access services such as Slacker Internet radio and Yelp restaurant reviews without the need to touch their cell phones. The service comes as the federal government increases pressure on automakers to minimize distractions for drivers.

In many ways, the HondaLink system follows a strategy similar to Ford's Sync, General Motors' MyLink, Toyota's Entune and Hyundai's BlueLink-using the driver's cell phone as the gateway to streaming Internet services into the vehicle.

HondaLink was introduced with arrival of the Fit EV electric car that Honda recently started leasing in California. But this version of HondaLink is different from the version aimed for the Accord.

HondaLink in the Fit EV uses technology embedded in the car to exchange data with the owner's smartphone. The phone can display the car's state of charge and distance to the nearest charging station. The driver can also remotely command the car to begin cooling or heating the cabin, and preset charging times.

Honda says the information and entertainment version of HondaLink launches with the new Accord and the restyled Crosstour wagon this fall. The system will be available on higher (more expensive) trim levels of the vehicles. But Honda notes that the technology was designed to be flexible and will be offered throughout Honda's vehicle lineup in the future, at various price points.

In addition to audio entertainment, HondaLink can access popular social-media sites such as Facebook. The system will read updates, but won't allow the driver to post information to the Web page.

The driver can also use voice commands to seek information, such as restaurant locations and reviews, and then have the address automatically sent to the car's navigation system.

HondaLink is designed to connect to Apple iPhones via Bluetooth or a USB cable, and to Android phones via Bluetooth. Honda officials said HondaLink is not yet configured to work with tablets but noted that those connections will be available in the future.

By Dale Jewett