Mini introduces Mobile Road Assist Application for BlackBerry
by The PocketBerry Team
Services in vehicles such as On-Star by GM and Road Side assist by Mercedes-Benz have been looked at the be the most convenient methods of seeking help while on the road. Mini has just introduced road side assitance through quite differently. Last week, Mini has developed an application for the BlackBerry and iPhone platform for roadside assistance. This eliminates having to talk to a human being or wait on hold with AAA services. The app is being offered free for BlackBerry and iPhone users who currently own Mini vehicles. Here we’re going to hook you up with some screnshots of the application to get a rough idea as to how it is. Of course we can’t walk you through the whole application as it does need a VIN # for a Mini vehicle.
To download this application, click here to have a link sent to your phone.
Current Supported Devices: Curve 8300/8310/8320/8330, Bold 9000
Click below to check out interactive screenshots, video review, and press release.
PRESS RELEASE:
Woodcliff Lake, NJ – August 20, 2008… MINI USA announced today the introduction of a free app to MINI owners that allows access to roadside assistance with the touch of an icon. The new MINI Road Assist mobile application was developed by Allstate Roadside Services and is available for iPhone and select BlackBerry users. The app connects users to roadside assistance while automatically supplying the service provider with all relevant information about the vehicle, most importantly, its exact location.
“MINI owners appreciate technological innovation and will welcome the additional peace of mind that comes from having fast, easy access to the free roadside services provided during their warranty period,” said Jim McDowell, Vice President MINI USA.
Whether it’s for a battery boost or to replace a flat tire, the new MINI Road Assist app for iPhone and BlackBerry users puts control in the driver’s hand – and handset. Perhaps the best part, it eliminates the need for lengthy conversations about vital vehicle information and location and jumps directly to sending help after a short call.
To begin using the app, MINI owners will need to download it to their iPhone or compatible BlackBerry device. Step-by-step instructions guide users to enter their Vehicle I.D. (VIN), name, address and other details – even uploading a photo of their MINI. When a MINI owner needs roadside help, they simply launch the app, select their service need and press the “call” button. Their user information, vehicle location and service need are all transmitted automatically to customer service representatives – saving valuable time to get them motoring again as quickly as possible.
This feature utilizes global positioning system (GPS) technology, pinpointing a caller’s location to help customer service representatives identify the nearest available service provider and communicating their exact location. Once service is confirmed, the mobile app delivers the driver with the service provider’s name, an estimated time of arrival and an automated service follows up to ensure the issue has been resolved.
“As the exclusive provider of roadside assistance for MINI USA and a number of other prestigious auto brands, Allstate Roadside Services is proud to launch this application designed to enhance the MINI owner’s experience,” said Patrick O’Brien, president of Allstate Roadside Services.
It’s free to MINI owners and can be downloaded here: http://www.allstateroadsideservices.com/mini/
To access a video of the app and how it works, click the link: http://www.youtube.com/miniusanews
All MINI USA owners have access to roadside assistance free of charge as long as the vehicle remains under warranty. Customers whose warranty has expired may still download the free app and use the roadside assistance for a fee set by the service provider.
-by Mac Jadalhack
Source: egmCarTech
