A New Standard for In-Car Tech is Coming

(Updated: 2025-07-17)

Major tech consortiums have signalled a move towards a unified standard for in-car accessories, aiming to make chargers, mounts, and media hubs universally compatible and more efficient. Much like the Qi2 standard revolutionised wireless charging by integrating magnetic locking, this new push promises seamless, faster, and more reliable connections between any phone and any car.

Why it Matters for South African Drivers

Let's be honest, new tech takes its time getting to South Africa, and when it does, the price often gets a nasty bump from the Rand-to-Dollar exchange rate. While this new universal standard is exciting, we can expect the first certified products to carry a premium price tag, likely landing in SA 12-18 months after the international release.

The good news? This move towards standardisation is a huge win for consumers long-term. As detailed in reports by global tech authorities like PCMag, unified standards force competition and eventually drive prices down. Locally, the adoption of new vehicle technology is accelerating. A recent MyBroadband feature highlights how quickly new automotive brands are expanding their footprint, bringing advanced tech to the SA market faster than ever before. This competition should help make next-gen car gear more accessible.

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Optimise Your Current Setup

Make sure your phone’s charging port and your charging cables are clean and free of dust. A quick blast of compressed air or a gentle clean with a non-metallic pick can restore a solid connection and improve charging speeds on the gear you already own.

What to Watch Next 🔭

While we wait for the latest and greatest, here’s what we can realistically expect over the next two years:

  • First-Gen Premium: The first wave of "universally compatible" smart mounts and chargers will likely appear in South Africa by late 2026, targeting early adopters with higher price points.
  • Price Drops on Current Tech: As the new standard gains traction, expect fantastic deals and price reductions on the excellent car chargers and phone mounts available today.
  • More Integrated Solutions: Look for more cars to roll out with built-in, high-speed charging and mounting solutions that align with these new, open standards.

Get Your Car Ready Today

You don't need to wait for the future to have a smooth in-car tech experience. Upgrading your current setup can make a world of difference on your daily commute or next road trip. A great starting point is to explore the massive range of car tech already available.

From multi-port chargers to ultra-sturdy mounts, you can find proven gear from reliable brands like Promate that solves today’s problems. To see what’s just hit the shelves, it's always a good idea to browse the newest car tech arrivals. Investing in a quality setup now ensures you’re powered up and ready for the road ahead.

Upgrade Your Drive Why wait for tomorrow? Get a smarter, cleaner, and more powerful in-car setup today by exploring the entire range of car accessories at Evetech.