Polestar’s (and Volvo’s) parent company Geely bought a majority stake (79.9%) in Meizu, a Chinese electronics company, last year as the company looked to expand its digital platform offerings. 

Meizu was once one of China’s most popular smartphone makers and known as an up-and-coming Android rival, but it has since lost market share to larger tech companies like Xiaomi. 

Although the brand lost relevance over the years, its technology could play an integral role in helping it compete in an auto market that continues progressing toward connected digital experiences. 

Geely is quickly putting the technology to work as two of its business units – Polestar and newly acquired Meizu – will work together to improve the digital experience with an in-house OS. 

The joint venture will develop Meizu’s existing tech platform, Flyme Auto, into a seamless OS for Polestar electric cars sold in China. Some of the services will include in-car apps, streaming, and intelligent vehicle software. 

Polestar will own 49% of the new JV, while Xingji Meizu will own the remaining 51% and will be in charge of its future financing. 

Xingji Meizu chairman Ziyu Shen said, “The future will be enabled by integrated devices and platforms that deliver an immersive experience for end users.” He added that with Meizu’s technology, “Polestar will take the lead in the field of smart mobility.” 

Meanwhile, Polestar says it will continue to embrace its close collaboration with Google, and its cars in the rest of the world will still use Android Automotive OS.