Clever connectivity with the SmartphoneHub from Bosch

Stuttgart/Reutlingen – Digitisation on the pedelec takes things to the next level and opens up more and more choices for users. The new SmartphoneHub from Bosch eBike Systems connects the eBiker with the online world by means of the smartphone and the COBI.Bike app. The smart control centre offers a wide range of useful functions - from navigation, music control, fitness tracking and making calls to the connection to other services and apps, such as Strava or komoot. An integrated display that supplies the eBiker with the most important riding data, even without the smartphone, ensures sufficient flexibility while on the road. Bosch is offering pedelec riders a fully connected riding experience from model year 2020 onwards with the new SmartphoneHub.

Intelligent connectivity from the handlebar of your eBike

"Kitchen appliances, cars, lawnmowers: society has already embraced the Internet of Things. Connectivity is the ultimate topic of the future for bicycles, especially eBikes: In the future, connected bicycles will offer users almost unlimited possibilities. We are already working on solutions for the mobility of the future, as well as driving developments relating to all aspects of connected biking with new products like the SmartphoneHub," explains Claus Fleischer, CEO of Bosch eBike Systems.
If you also want to use your smartphone while riding your pedelec, you'll find the SmartphoneHub provides the perfect connection: click the smartphone into place, open the COBI.Bike app, start pedalling and the connected eBike experience can begin. Using a 2D or 3D map view, the app will reliably guide you to your destination; if you wish you can even get the navigation instructions as voice output. Accurate weather information enables you to enjoy carefree trips through the countryside. Fitness enthusiasts can keep a permanent eye on their training data such as performance, cadence and calorie consumption, while a heart rate monitor can also be connected using Bluetooth. The SmartphoneHub can turn into a personal trainer by connecting to fitness and health services like Apple Health, Google Fit, Strava and komoot. Entertainment has not been forgotten: the COBI.Bike app allows eBikers access to music and audio book streaming services, such as Spotify or Audible.

Easy operation for more riding enjoyment

The SmartphoneHub and all applications can be easily and intuitively controlled with the separate control unit, enabling you to keep your hands on the handlebar. The voice output means that eBikers don't even have to look at the display while navigating or changing functions. Flexibility while on the move: the smartphone can also be stowed safely in a backpack, the most important riding data will then be displayed on the 1.52-inch LCD display integrated in the hub. Sufficient battery reserves are guaranteed: The smartphone can be charged via USB during the ride thanks to power from the eBike battery. Software updates for the SmartphoneHub can be installed with ease using wireless technology with the help of the COBI.Bike app.

Practical additional functions and matching accessories

In addition, there are other useful features for connected riders. The USB port is not only used to charge external devices, but also allows bicycle dealers to connect the Bosch diagnostic device. On request, intervals can be defined for the next service or software updates and fault diagnoses can be carried out on the eBike system. The two-stage walk assistance function can be activated at the push of a button, making it easier to push the pedelec when carrying luggage or negotiating obstacles. For iPhone users, there is also a special smartphone case that fits the SmartphoneHub and charges the smartphone using the integrated Lightning plug.
The SmartphoneHub can be retrofitted for eBikes of the Bosch product lines Active Line, Active Line Plus, Cargo Line, Performance Line and Performance Line CX from model year 2020 onwards. Exceptions are the Cargo Line Speed and Performance Line Speed as well as combinations with Bosch eBike ABS, eShift or eSuspension.