HearMeOut Ltd (ASX:HMO) has expanded into another key market, with its voice-based social media platform now available to Ford (NYSE:F) customers in India using the SYNC® in-car entertainment technology.
The platform enables users to share and listen to 42-second audio posts through the platform’s native feed or on other social networks, such as Twitter or Facebook.
Platform already deployed in the U.S., UK and Ireland
HearMeOut platform is already enabled to be used in Ford SYNC® in-car entertainment technology in the U.S., UK and Ireland.
The new deal in India provides immediate exposure to a market that has a strong engagement with social platforms and voice-based platforms.
HearMeOut has a strong influencer network in India, with influencers such as RJ Balaji, Andrea Jeremiah, and Chinmayi Sripaada, having in excess of 150,000 followers on the platform already.
The company is aiming to rapidly add its platform to additional Ford markets, which is a key element of its connected car strategy.
Connected car market to grow to €113 billion by 2020
HearMeOuts sees the connected car market as key to validating the platform, attracting content publishers and platform users.
The connected car market is expected to grow to €113 billion by 2020 - enabling new in-vehicle services and automated driving capabilities.
Importantly, Ford’s validation of the HearMeOut platform is expected to assist the company in fast tracking discussions with additional car manufacturers looking to introduce the platform to their own in-car entertainment platforms.