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is working with 29 other groups from the EU including automotive, IT and communications companies to solve a problem plaguing consumer hardware and software makers - compatibility. The project is called "webinos." It began in September 2010 and runs until August 2013. By that time, the organizations hope to have a solution. 

The problem faced by these automakers is huge. Most buyers keep their car for a little less than a decade and many people opt for a slightly used car when making a car purchase. A decade ago, the iPhone did not even exist, and while the platform is currently the standard, in a decade, it might be looked at as a relic. In contrast many people trade in their mobile devices every two or three years. How should they decide on a platform that can work on a variety of platforms but can adjust to the needs of the next decade? 

The webinos project has decided on modular web apps as the solution to the problem. The applications will be based on HTML5 web pages that can be accessed from either a dedicated web app like on an iPhone or from a web browser. Both will offer the same functionality. 

Users will have an account with the webino platform that allows data to be shared among all devices. The companies have developed 22 services so far including specific applications for vehicle data and navigation. 

BMW have developed an application that allows users to plan a trip on their computer or tablet and because the car is hooked into the platform, it knows about the trip as soon as the driver is in the car. The user's smart phone also follows the route and will navigate the user if the last part of the journey is only available on foot.