Core Viewpoint - The article discusses the controversy surrounding in-car advertising on digital screens, highlighting the lack of user control and regulatory clarity in the automotive industry [1][6][12]. Group 1: Advertising Controversy - The emergence of in-car advertising has sparked significant backlash from car owners, who feel that they have not consented to such advertisements [1][3]. - A specific incident involving Deep Blue Automotive's pop-up ads has led to complaints from numerous car owners, raising questions about the consent process and the visibility of advertising policies [3][5]. - The automotive display market is projected to grow from $16 billion in 2024 to $48.9 billion in 2034, indicating a lucrative opportunity for advertising [6]. Group 2: User Control and Privacy - Many car owners are now scrutinizing the privacy policies of automotive apps, which often include clauses about advertising and user consent [9][10]. - Users who refuse to accept privacy agreements may lose access to essential vehicle functions, leading to frustration and confusion about ownership rights [10][11]. - Legal experts argue that car owners should have full control over their vehicle's information and advertising content, but the current ecosystem is often closed and lacks transparency [12][14]. Group 3: Regulatory Challenges - The automotive industry is still in the exploratory phase regarding advertising regulations, with significant differences in how companies implement compliance measures [12][14]. - Current regulations for internet advertising do not adequately cover in-car advertising, leading to frequent complaints and confusion among users [16][18]. - The distinction between service notifications and advertisements is often blurred, complicating the consent process for users [17][18]. Group 4: Safety Concerns - The potential for in-car advertisements to distract drivers raises serious safety concerns, with no standardized technical guidelines to prevent such occurrences [18][19]. - The article draws parallels between the early days of smartphone advertising and the current state of in-car advertising, emphasizing the need for clearer regulations to ensure user safety [19].

Core Viewpoint - The article discusses the ongoing controversy surrounding Deep Blue Automotive's advertising practices on in-car screens, highlighting the company's response to allegations of intrusive advertising and privacy policy changes [1][2]. Group 1: Advertising Practices - Deep Blue Automotive faced backlash from car owners for pushing advertisements on the vehicle's display without consent, which some owners claimed affected their driving experience [2]. - The CEO of Deep Blue Automotive apologized for the incident, stating that the intention was to inform customers about a promotional offer, but acknowledged the mistake and committed to improving communication methods [2][3]. - The trend of using in-car displays for advertising has become common among automakers as competition intensifies, with several brands employing similar strategies to promote new models and offers [3]. Group 2: Regulatory and Privacy Concerns - The rise in complaints about in-car advertising has led to increased scrutiny from regulatory bodies, with new regulations requiring clear disclosure of advertising practices and user consent [4]. - Concerns about personal data privacy have escalated, with consumers worried about potential data collection by automakers for targeted advertising, including sensitive information such as location and in-car activities [4][5]. - A significant number of data breach incidents related to automotive companies have been reported, prompting the industry to implement measures for better privacy protection [5][6].

Core Viewpoint - Deep Blue Automotive has responded to recent controversies regarding in-car advertising, asserting that claims about safety risks and forced ad viewing are false, and emphasizing their commitment to user privacy and safety [1][2]. Group 1: Company Response - Deep Blue Automotive's legal department clarified that advertisements can only appear when the vehicle is in park (P mode) and that users can close them at will, ensuring no ads pop up while driving [1]. - The company addressed misinformation regarding updates to its app's privacy policy, stating that changes were made to enhance user privacy and were not related to advertising practices [1]. Group 2: Industry Context - Deep Blue Automotive is not the first company to face backlash over in-car advertising; other brands like Volkswagen, Toyota, and Mercedes have also been reported to push ads during driving [2]. - The China Automobile Dealers Association reported a 210% year-on-year increase in complaints about in-car advertising in 2024, indicating a growing concern within the automotive industry [2]. - The prevalence of in-car advertising is driven by automakers' need for additional revenue in a competitive market, despite the potential safety risks associated with distracting drivers [2]. Group 3: Sales Performance - Despite the controversy, Deep Blue Automotive's sales figures show a positive trend, with total deliveries reaching 25,521 units in May, marking a 78% year-on-year increase and a 27% month-on-month increase [2]. - The number of pre-orders for the Deep Blue S09 has surpassed 21,168 units, suggesting potential for further sales growth in the future [2].