Continental's new VoicR application transforms the 40-year-old analog CB radio communication technology into a real-time, ad hoc voice-and location-based digital social network. VoicR enables subscribers to create short voice messages and broadcast them to other nearby users or on personalized “CB” style channels to users worldwide.

VoicR's “Internet of Everything” (IoE) style publication and subscription network opens up an unlimited number of user-defined channels based on user interests, including friends’ lists, destinations, events, shared interests and specific services. Certain closed channels can also be used for business, public services or governmental use. Subscribers can choose to join public channels and listen to or respond to voice messages about upcoming travel events, conditions and activities. This information and more can be shared far beyond the broadcast range of traditional analog radio to help drivers stay safe and informed about the road ahead with the click of a button.

“At Continental, we are always looking for ways to improve the driving experience and we are excited to be the first to transform a vintage technology into a modern cloud-based social network using GPS location,” said Johann Hiebl, executive vice president of Continental's Infotainment and Connectivity business unit. “We think of VoicR app as CB radio 2.0. With an easy and safe user interface, it allows the driver to stay focused on the road while still connected to what matters most while traveling."

VoicR supports Bluetooth hands-free operation in vehicle and push-to-talk via the wireless smart button known as Flic button. Continental is also investigating the possible integration with existing CB radios and the implementation of the software into embedded automotive infotainment systems, the use on special products in the area of commercial vehicles, public services and fleet management. With the integration of VoicR on a next-generation fleet management tablet solution like Continental’s Zonar Connect™, the software can even be used to replace old CB radios, add value and offer a smooth and enriched communication between the managers and drivers, the company says.

Another example of how VoicR can enrich the driving experience among private vehicle owners is by allowing them to join brand specific channels. For example, if a user of VoicR has purchased a motorcycle and wishes to find some other riders of the same brand to go on a weekend ride, he or she can search through the list of brand-related channels. Among the list, he or she can find two different results: a channel with the same OEM brand of owners that are planning a trip to a national motorcycle rally or a channel of a local group of the OEM brand owners. The user is able to connect with either group or both to share ride details, coordinate group trips and more.

VoicR was introduced at the 2018 Mid-America Trucking Show. It's available on Google Play or the App Store