Motor insurer NRMA Insurance is building its smartphone application presence with the release of two new products for the iPhone.

As the insurance industry largely plays catch-up on smartphone applications, the IAG subsidiary is building a sizeable presence in the iTunes store. It released a roadside assist application in December last year and added two new applications this month.

The new Car Inspector application gives users information on safety, security and environmental aspects of new cars, allowing users to compare models and request an insurance quote.

NRMA Insurance Research Centre Manager Robert McDonald says the information will help buyers make an informed choice when purchasing a vehicle.

“Many Australians are missing out on potentially life-saving technology innovations like electronic stability control,” he said.

NRMA’s Insurance’s other new application, Valuables Vault, acts as a repository of any items an insurance policyholder would claim after a theft or fire.

Assets are grouped into categories such as electronic goods and jewellery, and can be photo-tagged.