At this week’s Mobile World Congress in Barcelona, LG Electronics introduced a smart telematics unit with integrated antenna to enhance in-vehicle connectivity and design.

The debut comes as the automotive industry transitions from software-defined vehicles (SDVs) to AI-defined vehicles (AIDVs), an evolution that is seeing in-vehicle communications technology emerge as a core driver of future mobility competitiveness. As autonomous driving and in-vehicle infotainment systems continue to advance, South Korea-based LG aims to strengthen its collaborations with global automakers and telecommunications companies.

At MWC, LG is hosting a private exhibition space exclusively for automakers and other B2B customers. The company is showing its evolved vehicle communications and exploring business opportunities in connected mobility.

According to estimates based on data from independent research firm TechInsights, LG held the top position in the worldwide telematics market in 2025 with a 23 per cent share. This is underpinned by the company’s end-to-end design capabilities across core telematics components, including network access devices, antennas and overall system architecture.

The smart telematics unit on show combines an antenna capable of receiving multiple external signals – such as 5G, GPS, V2X and satellite communications – with a telematics control unit (TCU) that processes and transmits data to in-vehicle systems. Integrating these components into a single module enhances overall efficiency.

Developed and optimised in-house, the TCU has a reduced module size, enhanced signal-processing algorithms and upgraded software capabilities. By consolidating components previously installed in separate locations, it reduces signal loss at connection points and enables fast, stable processing of external data and data exchanged with in-vehicle IT devices. It also meets international standards for cyber security and regulatory compliance.

In addition, the simplified architecture reduces wiring complexity and improves vehicle assembly efficiency. It also allows for the removal of the shark fin antenna, which in turn enables cleaner, more streamlined vehicle designs.

LG previously partnered with Saint-Gobain Sekurit (www.saint-gobain-sekurit.com), an automotive glass manufacturer, to introduce transparent film-type antennas – both on-glass and in-glass – that can be applied across various vehicle models without compromising vehicle design.

LG is also strengthening its competitiveness around its AlphaWare in-vehicle software suite, to accelerate innovation in vehicle technologies and support the transition from SDVs to AIDVs. AlphaWare comprises: PlayWare, which delivers in-vehicle entertainment; MetaWare, which leverages AR, MR and AI technologies to provide context-aware information and immersive in-cabin experiences; and VisionWare, which uses ADAS, AI algorithms and camera sensors to analyse driver and passenger behaviour, helping prevent accidents and support safer driving. LG was also the first company to have its automotive content platform applied to commercialised electric vehicles.

“In-vehicle connectivity has become a core pillar of mobility competitiveness,” said Eun Seok-hyun, president of LG’s vehicle technology company (www.LG.com/global/mobility). “Building on our world-leading telematics capabilities, LG will continue to deliver innovations that go beyond the SDV paradigm and lead the industry into the AIDV era.”