OREANDA-NEWS. The 1.3 million users who regularly use OnStar’s RemoteLink mobile app will soon find an update with a new look and capabilities waiting for them in the app store. The update, now available for Android and iOS users, is the result of years of customer feedback and includes a modern user experience to streamline access to information and application commands.

OnStar RemoteLink’s new interface comes as more customers than ever are opening the app seeking their current tire pressures or requesting a remote start as winter enters full swing. The app experienced record-setting use in December 2014, with nearly 7 million total requests. Usage growth has continued since, with multiple days this month totaling more than 450,000 requests in a 24-hour period.   

“The new version of the app is designed to be more intuitive for customers, with a simpler, cleaner design,” said Dan Kinney, director, User Experience, Global Connected Customer Experience, General Motors. “This new user experience should allow our customers to easily find and access all the features RemoteLink has to offer.”

The updated app will provide customers with more information, including access to OnStar account details previously only available by phone or through OnStar.com. Consumers are increasingly relying on mobile devices to manage banking and shopping needs, and RemoteLink now offers access to key information and settings through a smartphone interface.

For Chevrolet, Buick, GMC and Cadillac vehicles equipped with OnStar 4G LTE, RemoteLink includes the ability to view data consumption and see how much data is left on a particular plan. Customers also can manage their Wi-Fi hotspot from the app, by either turning it on/off or changing their Wi-Fi SSID (hotspot name) and password. Wi-fi requires a paid plan. 

“RemoteLink use has been steadily increasing over the past year, as our customers realize the advantages of a remote connection to their vehicle,” said Kinney. “Whether they’re warming their car up, cooling it down or checking vehicle information, the app has many practical uses.”  

In the second half of 2014, RemoteLink was updated with a feature that allows drivers to pinpoint the location of their vehicle on a map.  Vehicle Locate is currently the app’s third most-used feature, and is integrated within the updated app’s Map Location Services page. This feature is not available in Canada. 

The remote features of the app – ability to remotely start/stop an engine with factory-installed remote start, lock and unlock automatic door locks and activate the horn and lights - are included with no subscription cost for five years from delivery on 2014 MY and newer GM vehicles. The ability to manage the vehicle’s Wi-Fi hotspot is also included for five years on properly equipped 2015 MY and newer Chevrolet, Buick, GMC and Cadillac vehicles. All other RemoteLink features require a paid OnStar subscription.