SAMSUNG ACQUIRES HARMAN FOR
$8 BILLION TO GET
INTO YOUR CAR

Samsung Electronics has acquired Harman International Industries for $8 billion, signaling a sizable effort in the growing connected-car marketplace, where it will face off with Apple (Carplay) and Google (Android Auto). Best known for its car audio systems, and JBL and Harman/Kardon brands, Harman technology is currently in 30 million connected cars.

This is a logical move as cars continue to get more screens, computers and connectivity, and dashboards more closely resemble smartphones. This acquisition will provide Samsung with firsthand knowledge on selling products to carmakers and access to Harman’s designers and engineers. Additionally, Harman’s brands will fit in well with Samsung’s range of consumer electronics, as the company continues its recovery following #firegate.The deal is expected to close in mid-2017.

Whether driverless cars will fight with you over what music to listen to remains to be seen.