New Delhi: India is on track to enter a groundbreaking “smartphone era” for automobiles in 2025, marked by the rollout of cars equipped with 5G M2M (Machine-to-Machine) connectivity and cutting-edge AI capabilities, according to the India Connected Consumer Report 2025 by Techarc. The report highlights that the country’s automotive industry will bypass 4G and adopt the more advanced 5G network to support vehicle connectivity. Consumers, it noted, are shifting focus from acquiring multiple smart devices to enhancing the overall value through improved features, performance, and user experience. Notably, 22% of respondents expressed interest in streamlining their smart device usage. Among emerging product categories, smart/connected cars are seeing growing consumer interest, with 55% of survey participants reporting recent exposure to news or updates about them. Beginning in 2025, Indian passenger vehicles will feature embedded GenAI, 5G M2M communication, and cloud integration, expanding access to high-tech solutions across a range of price points. Technologies like onboard computing, generative AI, and cloud-based services will become integral to vehicles, enabling real-time data processing for improved driving assistance. Cars priced at ₹20 lakh and above are expected to include these features as standard. The total revenue of automotive chipset makers has already exceeded $1.5 billion, with Qualcomm and MediaTek at the forefront. Drivers will soon be able to use various applications on the go, including video/audio conferencing, streaming platforms, music and podcast apps, e-commerce, and vehicle maintenance services. According to Sadat Ahanger, AutoTech Analyst at Techarc, “Connectivity and the technologies it brings will redefine the automobile sector, shaping the future experience, comfort, safety, performance, and entertainment for both drivers and passengers. What was once considered premium will soon become standard across many models.” With 22 auto manufacturers producing close to 5 million passenger cars annually, India is well-positioned to become a major player in the global 5G M2M automotive market in the coming years. The report also noted that MG Motors leads in the connected car segment in India, with 21% of consumer recognition, followed by Kia Motors at 18% and Tata Motors at 15%. Hyundai and Maruti Suzuki were also among the top five brands. The findings are based on a survey of 4,500 “connected consumers” from both metropolitan and non-metropolitan areas. These individuals were defined as those owning a smartphone along with at least three other smart devices. Click here to read more technology news