Vinli Developer Update + Hardware News
Since TechCrunch Disrupt a ton has been happening behind the scene at Vinli and we've been a bit tightlipped about things we realize, but so goes the startup world, funding and hardware production. The good news is that it's all about to change as we begin the deluge of updates.
Before we break down the forthcoming hardware, we'd like to share a fun picture of our CEO, Mark Haidar. Who could argue that he's looking like something between the chef from the Muppets and Luigi from Super Mario Bros during his recent visit to our contract manufacture (CM) partner in Shenzhen, China.
The Hardware
We are nearly through finalization and resiliency testing and have begun the technology transfer process. Also finalized is the device enclosure with molds are being milled as we speak. Additionally, our US-based manufacturing partner is ready to produce small-batch numbers for our initial set of Beta Partners.
CAD Drawing of the enclosure
Bottom Board
On the softer side of things, we have finalized the firmware on the Vinli OBD Interface Module and other programmable parts within the device. This gives us the ability to begin on-boarding our Alpha and Beta partners. Once our alpha partners have successfully ripped through our stack, we will release it to beta partners for extended testing. We've also been transferring vital developer tools to Vinli's GitHub repos. These will be opened to all developers in coming weeks.
We firmly believe Vinli to be the most advanced connected car solution out there. In addition to being open to developers and – as we've mentioned before – this tiny device supports: WiFi, LTE/3G/2G, GPS, Bluetooth, Accelerometer and it's all running on completely custom firmware. This will have the industry and developers in a tizzy soon, so get ready to make some waves with us!
Notable events for your May calendar
Please let us know if you'll be in any of the following places this month. We'd love to connect face to face.
May 12, 2015 Mobility NYC Kickoff + Lightning Pitches In partnership with our friends Dash and BMW i-Ventures, we're hosting a night curated for individuals and companies interested in the future of mobility, urban tech and the connected car.
May 20, 2015 Connected Car Meetup San Francisco The verdict is in and people want more connected car in SF! Join 150+ hackers and thought leaders to discuss opportunities in connected car.
May 22, 2015 Reboot the Commute We're making our maiden voyage to Hawaii to inspire entrepreneurs and developers to solve Oahu's massive traffic problems. We'll be on deck to kick things off and work alongside teams. We're also bringing in a special guest or two from the west coast.
That's all for now folks! Up next, Vinli Developer Portal unveiling, pre-order campaign and announcements of Vinli launch partners.