The Mercedes-Benz Operating System, dubbed MB.OS, was in the works as from 2021. The team at Mercedes cited that the system would be introduced later on in 2024. The team is striving at delivering an in-house-developed operating and navigation system. Quite a number of automakers rely on on conventional systems like Linux, QNX, and recently Google Android. However, the transition to an in-house developed system hands the car manufacturers a greater control and flexibility and retrospectively, newer financial opportunities.

The MB.OS should cover a vast spectrum of vehicle domains including infotainment, self-driving technology, comfort, powertrains and charging. Mercedes will have full control over updates and upgrades as well as the security of any personal data.

As earlier cited, the new O.S would provide avenues for Mercedes to grow revenues. For example: offering subscriptions or one-off upgrades to digital features that can be added after purchase of the vehicle. This has already been witnessed where car owners are subjected to pay a certain fee to “unlock” their car’s fu;l potential. In the era of buying phones without charging bricks, it would be wise for the consumer to anticipate anything.

An in-house OS would also make it easier for Mercedes to deliver a tailor-made user experience. One that is well suited to it’s own vehicles and customers as well. A textbook example is that of it’s navigation system which relies on information supplied by Google Maps but is featured using Mercedes interface. This will be particularly helpful for EVs since it will be able to provide precise information on remaining range as it will have access to all vehicle data, including state of charge, energy consumption and the nearest charging station.