Part of a series of how things we barely notice are becoming incredibly feature-rich
Let’s start with auto mirrors – I am using examples from my SUV but after-market offerings work with most models and in many cases are even “smarter” with embedded technology.
The Side Mirrors
The Blind spot detection icon flashes on left mirror when a car is approaching in the left lane (right one for right lane). The mirror tilts downwards when the gear is in reverse to allow you to better see the curb when you are parking
The memory settings for seats also adjust the mirrors so other drivers don’t have to fiddle when them, or you when you get the car back. The mirrors can be adjusted remotely, and are also heated – handy in cold winters
The mirror housings have turn indicator lights to supplement those that blink in the front and rear of car. The right mirror has a convex spotter and both housings can be folded for parking in tight spots
Rear View Mirror
Mine is a electrochromic auto-dimming, night vision safety mirror with a Z-Nav compass display. The controls are for HomeLink (radio frequency transmitters for garage and other controls) and Hyundai BlueLink support (for roadside assistance, navigation and other services)
To give you an idea how rich each feature is, the compass can be adjusted for “True North” in each of the 15 Magnetic Zones in N. America.
We have come a long way from the 60s when the side mirrors were an option on cars!
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