Software testing is vital for the automotive sector, especially as fitted advanced technology in vehicles proliferates. In a recent study carried out by Harvard Review on developers, results showed that most developers spend more than 35% of their time testing software.
To assist with testing, BlinqIO has developed a software as a service (SaaS) based mediation platform that leverages the power of generative AI in the testing world. It says the platform allows generative AI to perform the work of a test engineer autonomously.
The company offers 24-hour testing at scale, enabling companies to provide better support to existing software teams and refocus their efforts on other important tasks.
We spoke with Tal Barmeir, CEO and co-founder, BlinqIO to learn more about the importance of software testing and to highlight her journey as a woman in the engineering industry.
Just Auto (JA): How can the company’s technology assist the automotive industry?
Our technology can greatly benefit the automotive industry by ensuring that the software that powers the majority of modern vehicles is both robust and reliable.
By leveraging BlinqIO’s AI Test Engineers, automotive companies can autonomously generate and maintain test automation for vehicle software. This covers a wide range Tal Barof functionalities, from infotainment systems to autonomous driving features, allowing for continuous testing at scale without the need for extensive manual effort.
It also ensures software updates and new features meet the highest quality standards before they reach the consumer. Some software platforms, including ours, can autonomously test and maintain various systems including infotainment, connectivity, validating touch, gestures, and voice control among others.
Could you discuss the importance of software testing automation with newer vehicles?
I think that software testing automation is critical in the automotive industry, especially as most newer vehicles are AI-powered. With many, particularly electric cars, almost every aspect from driving controls to entertainment systems rely on software. This almost makes vehicles sophisticated computers on wheels.
I think that software testing automation is critical in the automotive industry
Ensuring safety and smooth operation is paramount, requiring flawless software performance. As a result, automated testing is essential because it allows for continuous, efficient, and comprehensive testing across different platforms and languages. This is crucial for the iterative development processes seen in automotive software engineering.
Moreover, it ensures that ongoing monitoring, upgrades, and enhancements, are implemented swiftly and without errors.
What are the benefits of testing vehicles, and what does that mean for OEMs?
There are many benefits to testing. Not only does it ensure intuitive user experiences by validating features like touchscreens, navigation, and smartphone integration for safety and efficiency, but it also enhances safety systems, such as collision warnings and fatigue detection. These are rigorously tested to reduce safety risks and help car manufacturers comply with regulations.
Advanced technologies such as AR navigation and EV range estimators can be validated to ensure accuracy and usability in real-world scenarios. Early issue detection also minimises warranty claims and enhances reliability, reducing costs for original equipment manufacturers. There are many benefits to thoroughly testing systems. This boosts brand reputation and attracts tech-savvy customers whilst fostering customer loyalty, giving OEMs a competitive edge in the automotive market in return.
Could you discuss the challenges you have faced as a female entrepreneur in tech?
Balancing the demands of entrepreneurship with family and personal commitments requires a high level of organisation and prioritisation. It sometimes feels like a tightrope walk! I firmly believe that founders, through having a strong support system (both professionally and personally) can turn these challenges into opportunities for growth.
Despite these hurdles, I wouldn’t change the journey. Building a successful company from the ground up, staying true to my vision, and eventually exiting on my terms was incredibly rewarding. I hope my story shows that, while the road may be tougher for women in tech, it’s worth walking down.
What were your goals for this year’s International Women’s Day?
My goals ahead of International Women’s Day were to partner with schools, organisations, and other entrepreneurs to ensure girls and young women feel supported enough to explore careers within these fields. Whether it’s through workshops, hackathons, or simply mentoring one-on-one, I want to show them that tech is not just a space where they belong, but a space where they can lead.
I think we must create environments where women feel both encouraged and supported to take on leadership roles.
I would like to see the focus shift for International Women’s Day. I think that increasing the visibility of female entrepreneurs in tech and inspiring more girls to pursue exact sciences like maths, engineering, and computer science is so important.
I feel that the tech world thrives on diversity of thought, and, as a result, we need more women at the table, founding companies, driving innovation and shaping the future. To achieve that I think we must create environments where women feel both encouraged and supported to take on leadership roles.
Sharing stories of women who’ve built and exited successful companies such as mine, is one way to highlight what is and isn’t possible, all while motivating others to follow suit.
