AllYouCanTech

Survey Indicates That Numerous In-Car Technologies Are Considered “Unessential” by Consumers

### The Development of Automotive Technology: Are We Approaching a Critical Juncture?

Over the past ten years, the car industry has experienced a remarkable change, largely propelled by the swift evolution of technology. From sophisticated driver assistance systems (ADAS) to infotainment displays that compete with home entertainment systems, contemporary vehicles are filled with features that would have appeared as science fiction a few years back. However, a recent study by JD Power indicates that not all these technological enhancements are welcomed by consumers. In fact, some may be viewed as more of an annoyance than an advantage.

#### The Tech Rush: A Mixed Blessing

Getting into a new vehicle today, particularly if you own one manufactured before 2010, can be quite a shock. Car manufacturers have been on an unyielding mission to incorporate the latest technologies into their models, usually aimed at improving safety, convenience, and the overall driving experience. But as highlighted by the JD Power Tech Experience Survey, not every innovation is resonating positively.

The survey, which assesses the issues faced and the user experience with new advanced technologies, discovered that while certain features are highly valued, others are regarded as unnecessary or even bothersome. For instance, ADAS features such as blind-spot detection are generally well-received because they tackle genuine safety issues. Conversely, features like automatic parking systems and partial driving automation are viewed as having limited practicality among users.

This insight is consistent with data from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety, which recently noted that partial automation doesn’t automatically enhance driving safety. This prompts a critical inquiry: Are automakers prioritizing flashy, high-tech functionalities at the cost of more pragmatic, user-friendly solutions?

#### The Screen Conundrum: When Is Enough, Enough?

One of the most contentious trends in contemporary car design is the surge of screens. What began as a solitary infotainment screen in the center console has now proliferated to include additional displays for passengers, and in some instances, even a dedicated screen for the front passenger. This trend was initiated by luxury marques like Ferrari and Porsche, and has since been embraced by other manufacturers, including Mercedes-Benz with its “hyperscreen” and Audi with its active privacy functions for passenger displays.

Nevertheless, not everyone is enthusiastic about this trend. JD Power’s study found that numerous consumers consider these extra screens to be superfluous and perplexing. Dealers also face difficulties instructing new owners on how to effectively navigate these systems, further adding to the exasperation. The real question then becomes: Are these screens addressing a genuine issue, or are they merely complicating things to give an impression of advanced technology?

#### The Surge of Unnecessary Features

Beyond screens, the survey also underscores other tech features that consumers regard as less than helpful. Innovations such as facial recognition, fingerprint scanners, and gesture controls have drawn skepticism. For instance, Genesis’ facial recognition technology allows drivers to access their vehicle without a key, yet many still prefer to carry their keys for peace of mind. Similarly, BMW’s gesture controls, which let drivers manage the infotainment system through hand motions, can be inadvertently activated by those who gesture while speaking, resulting in unintentional actions like cranking the sound system up.

These innovations, while groundbreaking, appear to be solutions looking for a problem. They introduce complexity to the driving experience without necessarily enhancing it, and in some instances, they might even detract from it.

#### The Positive Developments: AI and Intelligent Features

Not all emerging technologies are encountering resistance. JD Power’s survey found that AI-driven features, such as smart climate control, have swiftly gained acceptance among users. These functionalities utilize artificial intelligence to adjust to the driver’s preferences and environmental context, creating a more comfortable and customized driving experience.

Kathleen Rizk, senior director of user experience benchmarking and technology at JD Power, stressed the significance of a robust advanced tech strategy for car manufacturers. “Many innovative technologies are meeting customer demands,” she noted. “At the same time, this year’s research clearly indicates that owners perceive certain technologies as either redundant or consistently irritating.”

#### The Path Forward: Where Should Automakers Direct Their Efforts?

The insights from JD Power’s survey suggest that automakers should exhibit greater discernment regarding their research and development allocations. While the allure of incorporating the latest technologies into vehicles is strong, it is vital to ensure these features genuinely improve the driving experience rather than complicate it.

As the automotive sector continues to progress, it will be intriguing to observe how manufacturers heed this feedback. Will there be a transition away from superfluous technology features, or will the competition to innovate persist without pause? Only time will reveal the answer, but one thing is certain: The future of in-car technology will be defined not only by what is feasible, but also by what consumers genuinely desire and require.

Ikea Introduces Classifieds Platform for Trading Used Furniture, Rivaling Craigslist

### Ikea Introduces Secondhand Furniture Marketplace to Compete with eBay and Craigslist

Ikea, the renowned furniture powerhouse, is entering the resale market with a new peer-to-peer platform termed Ikea Preowned. This initiative aims to enable customers to buy and sell preowned Ikea furniture directly among themselves, allowing the company to compete directly with well-known platforms such as eBay, Craigslist, and Gumtree.

#### A New Phase in Ikea’s Digital Evolution

The Ikea Preowned platform is presently undergoing trials in Madrid, Spain, and Oslo, Norway, with intentions to broaden its reach globally if these trials are successful. Jesper Brodin, CEO of Ingka Group, which runs the majority of Ikea stores worldwide, expressed that this initiative has been a long-cherished aspiration finally being realized.

“This has been a dream in the making for some time,” Brodin shared with the Financial Times. “We’re at a point in Ikea where we can undertake more advanced and exciting ventures. The confidence in the company’s digital evolution is remarkable.”

The debut of Ikea Preowned is part of a larger transformation strategy that Ikea has been pursuing in recent years. Historically recognized as an out-of-town retailer where consumers gather and assemble their own furniture, Ikea is transitioning toward a more digitally-forward business model. This shift encompasses online sales, urban stores, and added services such as furniture assembly.

#### Functionality of Ikea Preowned

The new platform is crafted to ensure ease of use and efficiency. Sellers can list their Ikea furniture by uploading personal photos and determining a selling price. Ikea’s AI-driven database enhances these listings with promotional visuals and dimensions, enhancing their attractiveness and informativeness for interested buyers.

Buyers will retrieve their purchased items directly from the sellers, simplifying the transaction process and minimizing logistical issues. Sellers can choose to receive payment either in cash or as an Ikea voucher, which includes a 15% bonus as an added incentive.

#### Competing in the Resale Arena

Brodin pointed out that Ikea already possesses a substantial presence in the secondhand furniture market, even overshadowing its new furniture sales. The company has previously operated a limited program wherein it purchases used furniture from customers to resell in stores. However, Ikea Preowned represents a more ambitious effort to capture a larger share of the secondhand market.

“Frequently, there exists a monopoly or oligopoly on operating platforms,” Brodin remarked, referencing established competitors like eBay and Gumtree. In Oslo alone, the Norwegian classifieds site Finn lists 8,700 Ikea items. Initial listings on Ikea Preowned feature large items such as sofas costing up to €600 and wardrobes for €450, as well as smaller items like a toilet roll holder priced at €4.

While the platform currently allows for free listings, Brodin indicated that Ikea might eventually implement a “symbolic fee” to maintain its operations.

#### Aligning with Sustainability Objectives

The introduction of Ikea Preowned coincides with the company’s wider sustainability ambitions. Ikea has pledged to become “circular and climate positive” by 2030, and the Preowned platform is a vital step towards achieving this goal. By promoting the resale of furniture, Ikea is facilitating the reuse of products, thereby minimizing waste and encouraging a more sustainable lifestyle.

#### The Future of Ikea’s Digital Framework

The Covid-19 pandemic expedited Ikea’s digital evolution, compelling the company to launch online shopping globally within a mere six weeks—a transition originally projected to span three years. “That was a matter of survival for us,” Brodin recollected. “We were 100 percent closed. The digital transformation was our savior.”

Looking forward, Ikea intends to cultivate a comprehensive digital platform that will serve as the “ultimate destination for home furnishing.” The Preowned marketplace is anticipated to be a key element of this ecosystem, alongside additional services like home planning, finance, and shopping.

As Ikea continues to advance, the Preowned platform could revolutionize how consumers acquire and sell furniture, facilitating a more efficient and sustainable approach to decorating homes worldwide.

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*Note: This article draws on insights from the Financial Times and other sources. All rights reserved by the original publishers.*