Mercury Marine has unveiled four new helm and propulsion control technologies, all making their public debut at the Miami International Boat Show. The release covers the Mercury Keyless System, Boost performance software, a redesigned Premier Joystick, and the DTS Performance Pedal. Each product sits within Mercury's SmartCraft platform, the company's broader ecosystem connecting engine management, helm controls, and onboard digital systems.
Mercury Marine president John Buelow positioned the announcement as a signal of where the brand is heading. "By launching these innovations together, Mercury delivers a clear message: the future of boating is smarter, more connected, and more intuitive," he said. "Each solution addresses a core consumer need such as control, performance, ease of use, and personalisation, while working together to create a more cohesive on-water experience." Buelow has also noted the company's continued focus on developing propulsion systems that unite mechanical hardware and digital control.
Of the four products, Boost is the most squarely performance-focused. The software upgrade adjusts engine calibration to sharpen acceleration with no hardware changes required. Depending on engine model and installation, Mercury says owners can expect mid-range acceleration and zero-to-top-speed performance to improve by between five and 21 percent. Authorised dealers can apply Boost to eligible Mercury outboards already in service, and Mercury has confirmed it will ship included on certain new engines later this year. The approach reflects a growing shift across the marine sector, where software-delivered performance gains allow manufacturers to extract more from existing hardware.
The Mercury Keyless System brings smartphone-based access technology to boat ownership, allowing operators to unlock, start, and secure their vessel from a mobile device. It connects directly with SmartCraft Connect, drawing engine control, security functions, and digital connectivity into one unified interface.
The system supports both single- and multi-engine configurations, handling setups running as many as six engines. Compatibility extends to Mercury outboards rated at 75 horsepower and above.
Mercury's Premier Joystick has received a thorough update covering both the hardware and its associated display interface. A new function called Dockhook has been introduced, providing active assistance in holding the boat steady alongside a dock while lines are secured. The update also brings Skyhook repositioning and remote helm Skyhook control, both using GPS-assisted positioning to keep the vessel in place. Compatibility now extends to outboard boats fitted with dual bow thrusters, giving operators improved lateral movement and greater precision at low speeds. Vessels equipped with Mercury Autopilot gain additional capability through the updated system, including heading hold and position hold functions.
The fourth product, the DTS Performance Pedal, targets a more specialised corner of the market. Built for high-speed single-engine boats capable of 120 km/h or more, including bass boats, small sport boats, and single-engine catamarans, it transfers throttle control to the foot, freeing both hands to remain on the steering wheel at speed.
The pedal is built around a new throttle sensor intended to improve control feel and response. Constructed from anodised billet aluminium, it features a non-slip EVA deck surface and an integrated toe hook for added stability under load.
