Pandora Eyeing Cars For Integrated Music Streaming

Streaming music provider Pandora have set their sights on in-car use, according to the company's chief technology officer, Tom Conrad.  Speaking at the SF Music Tech Summit, Conrad revealed that around half of Pandora's current users are believed to be using DIY ways to play their music while in the car; with that in mind, the company is working with car manufacturers, including Ford, to develop hands-free controls that would work either via a wired or wireless link.

Meanwhile the longer-term goal is to integrate Pandora into an in-car entertainment system, with a subscription for the streaming service included in the purchase price of the vehicle itself.  Conrad wouldn't be drawn on the timeline for such integration – which he described as challenging existing satellite and terrestrial radio offerings – but did indicate that there will be announcements relating to the system at CES this coming January.