Sony Honda Mobility Inc. (SHM) and Crunchyroll, the leading platform for anime content, have announced an innovative collaboration that will integrate the anime streaming service into AFEELA cars. This agreement makes SHM the first company in the world to offer such an in-vehicle entertainment experience in North America. According to officials, the alliance aims to merge mobility and entertainment, allowing users to enjoy anime while on the go.
SHM, whose vision is to create an entertainment space in mobility, will offer AFEELA drivers and passengers access to Crunchyroll’s library, which includes over 25,000 hours of content, with new series added every season. Terry Li, Executive Vice President of Emerging Business at Crunchyroll, expressed his excitement: “Bringing Crunchyroll to AFEELA vehicles not only expands accessibility for dedicated fans, but invites new viewers to discover the world of anime in a unique way.”.
For his part, Shugo Yamaguchi, Director and Vice President of SHM, noted that the company's purpose is to offer a mobility experience enriched with attractive content: “We are excited about our collaboration with Crunchyroll, a platform loved by anime fans around the world.“.
A good idea or a road hazard?
While this proposal sounds fascinating for anime lovers, an important question arises: is it really safe to include the possibility of watching anime inside a car? Although the integration of Crunchyroll into AFEELA vehicles promises an innovative entertainment experience, it could pose certain risks if not managed properly. Watching anime, or any audiovisual content, while driving could become a dangerous distraction, putting the safety of the occupants and other people on the road at risk.
In-car entertainment technology should be implemented with strict safety measures, such as limiting the playback of visual content to passengers and blocking it for drivers while the vehicle is in motion. The temptation to watch an episode of a favorite series while driving could distract attention, increasing the chances of accidents. Additionally, integrating displays and streaming services into vehicles requires design that minimizes distractions, such as intuitive controls and driver-only audio options.
The idea of turning cars into entertainment centers is innovative and attractive, especially on long trips or when vehicles are in autonomous mode. However, in the current context, where autonomous driving is not yet a mass reality, it is crucial to prioritize safety and ensure that these new features do not become a danger on the road.
Fountain: Official Site
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