Mercedes-Benz is offering developers a platform to work with its Mercedes me apps, which link a driver’s smartphone with their vehicle.

Three apps are available to download with immediate effect in the App Store and in the Google Play Store and will be available in over 40 Mercedes me markets by the end of the year.

The actual innovation runs in the background of the Apps, which are based for the first time on a common, standardised development platform. Last year the company was the first vehicle manufacturer to grant software developers from all over the world access to their Software Development Kit.

The Mercedes me App links the smartphone with the owner’s vehicle. This enables key status information – such as mileage, range or tyre pressure – to be displayed very conveniently. Digital command functions additionally enable the stationary heater, the soft top or the side windows to be operated by app, and a brand new feature serves to flash up the headlamps so that the vehicle can be located in a dark car park, for example.

The Mercedes me Store App offers convenient access to the digital products from Mercedes-Benz. It provides a quick overview of the term of each of the Mercedes me connect services and on-demand features used. These can be extended via smartphone at any time, as required.

The Mercedes me Service App provides a reminder in good time of service appointments such as service or maintenance work. It displays active warning lamps and recommends appropriate measures, such as checking the tyre pressure at the next filling station.