Software-defined innovation is not just transforming the automotive sector but also revolutionising the boating industry. Discover more at the Smart Mobility Summit, MWC25 Barcelona.
Björn Qvarsell, Head of Product Portfolio, KDDI Spherience
In recent years, the battleground in automotive manufacturing has centered around software, electrification, and supply chain resilience. Of these, software and electrification have posed significant challenges for legacy automakers. As a result, competitive strength in the automotive sector increasingly hinges on how well an automaker can become truly “Software Defined.”
The boating industry is—or will soon be—facing similar challenges and opportunities. While the transition to being Software Defined may look different for boats due to unique operational and environmental factors, the core principles of leveraging software and connectivity for innovation, customer experience, and operational efficiency remain the same.
When defining “the Connected Boat Opportunity,” it is helpful to examine both the similarities and differences between the automotive and maritime industries. Both cars and boats are vehicles that serve as a means of transport or leisure, yet boats vary widely in form and function, presenting distinct challenges and opportunities for innovation.
As a Connectivity Aggregator, we will not claim to be maritime industry experts—that is a role better suited for our good friends in the industry. However, we are well-versed in the transformative potential of connectivity for an industry poised to accelerate its digitalisation journey.
Software in Boats
Software is quickly becoming the backbone of innovation in many industries, and boating is no exception. From smart navigation systems to automated maintenance alerts, software has the potential to enhance every aspect of boat ownership and operation. Advanced software systems can enable features like:
- Intelligent Navigation: Real-time data for weather, currents, and obstacles to optimize routes.
- Predictive Maintenance: Monitoring onboard systems to prevent costly breakdowns and reduce downtime.
- Automated Systems: Features like automated docking or anchoring to make boating safer and more accessible for less experienced users.
However, implementing software in boats comes with unique challenges. To a greater extent than cars, boats operate in harsh environments, including saltwater, extreme temperatures, and remote areas with limited connectivity. These conditions demand durable hardware and resilient software solutions.
To the customer, the software defined model means continuously expanded feature sets, seamless maintenance scheduling and a potential for infinite customization.
Connectivity as a Core Principle of ‘Software Defined’
Connectivity is the lifeblood of any Software Defined system, and it is particularly critical in boating. A robust connectivity infrastructure enables boats to communicate in real time with onshore systems, other vessels, and global services. This opens opportunities such as:
- Over-the-Air (OTA) Updates: Keeping software and navigation systems up to date without requiring a visit to the marina.
- Real-Time Data Sharing: Supporting predictive maintenance, weather alerts, and fleet management for commercial operators.
- Remote Monitoring and Control: Allowing owners to monitor their vessel's systems and performance from a smartphone or tablet.
Given the variable connectivity in open waters, solutions such as hybrid satellite-cellular systems will be essential to ensuring consistent and reliable connections. The peace of mind in being connected is a benefit to Customers who can also enjoy the digital services they are accustomed to in their daily lives – if, and when they want to.
A Digital Customer Experience
Today’s customers expect intuitive, smartphone-like experiences in every aspect of their lives, and boating should be no exception. By investing in a seamless digital experience, boat builders can attract a new generation of tech-savvy customers. This includes:
- Personalized Interfaces: Dashboards that adapt to the user’s preferences and skill level.
- Integrated Ecosystems: Apps and platforms that connect with other devices, such as wearables and smart home systems.
- Enhanced Entertainment Options: High-quality audio, video, and internet services to transform the onboard experience.
With the control of their boats literally at their fingertips, customers can now enjoy peace of mind in their boat ownership. Something that previous generations have struggled with.
The Value of Data
As boats become increasingly connected, the data generated by their systems becomes an asset. This data can be used to:
- Optimize Performance: Identifying inefficiencies and improving fuel consumption or battery usage.
- Enhance Safety: Leveraging real-time insights to reduce accidents and ensure compliance with maritime regulations.
- Support New Business Models: Data can enable subscription-based services, fleet management tools, and more.
Importantly, the collection, storage, and use of this data must be handled responsibly, with robust security measures to protect against breaches and misuse. When handled responsibly, the sharing of data will significantly simplify service and maintenance of the boat for the customer.
Navigating a Software Defined Future
The boating industry has a golden opportunity to redefine itself by embracing software and connectivity as cornerstones of innovation. The pioneers who act now will not only improve their operational efficiency but also deliver new value to their customers and reach new segments of the market.
As we have seen in the automotive sector, the journey to becoming Software Defined requires a paradigm shift and a customer-first mindset. The boating industry will rise to this challenge, leveraging the lessons learned from other sectors while addressing its own unique opportunities.
Join us at the MWC25 Smart Mobility Summit and explore the connected boat as the next frontier of Software Defined Vehicles. The summit will also discuss the future of mobility, including building the backbone of modern mobility, developing critical network APIs and AI, and forging strategic partnerships for monetisation.
The four-session summit covers:
- Unlocking the Potential of Level 4 Autonomy in Mobility Ecosystems
- Building the backbone: The infrastructure behind modern mobility
- Empowering mobility: how network API and AI drive innovation
- Keys to success: monetisation, partnerships, and sustainability
You can register here https://www.mwcbarcelona.com/agenda?date=2025-03-05&track=Connected+Industries