AT&T plugs 5G into in-car audio with iM Media Labs deal

AT&T and iM Media Labs are teaming up to build a unified in-car audio system that runs over the operator’s mobile network, covering 4G, 5G non-standalone, and standalone 5G. Announced at CES 2026, the platform aims to give carmakers a single built-in interface for music, podcasts and other audio, and a way to test different business models and revenue streams.

iM Media Labs supplies an AI-driven platform that uses real-time data and speech synthesis to deliver tailored listening, including curated playlists, AI “DJs,” and local updates such as news and weather. The companies say the service is designed to scale across different car brands and setups, with voice and quick-glance controls intended to cut driver distraction. AT&T points to third-party data to claim it now covers more US roads than Verizon and T-Mobile, a selling point as vehicles lean more on mobile networks for entertainment.