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Microsoft: From Personal Computers to Personal Cars

By kshitij ⋅ May 12, 2008 ⋅  Send this to a friend.. ⋅  Print this article. ⋅ Post a comment ⋅ Add to Technorati Favorites

In the past, telematics was for high-end, luxury cars only. But Last week Microsoft and Hyundai-Kia Automotive Group announced that the companies will “co-develop” the “next generation” of “infotainment systems.” In other words, you’ll be able to get ‘Microsoft Auto’ (name of the operating system) in Hyundai’s cheap cars by 2010.
All car manufacturers can customize and re-brand the system for its customers. The new operating system for cars does not include an end-user UI, which is developed by the car makers using Microsoft tools and specifications.
Currently “Microsoft Auto” customers are driving Ford or Fiat cars using a Microsoft Auto-based, Ford co-developed system branded “Sync” in Fords and “Blue&Me” in Fiats. Ford Sync allows users to integrate MP3 players and cell phones with their cars, allowing for hands-free calling and voice-controlled music selection. There are no particulars yet about what features will be on hand, but we can look ahead to similar functionality to Ford Sync, along with anything else Microsoft can come up with in time for the assembly line. The most recent version of Microsoft Auto3.0 lets you stream music from — and control — mobile phones, iPods, Zunes, Zens and other players via Bluetooth. You can also surf the Internet via Internet Explorer. It also supports GPS. All this is voice-controlled via technology developed by Nuance.
Head of general manager of Microsoft’s Automotive Business Unit, Mr. Martin Tall accentuates that the latest announcement only covers the strategic partnership, and doesn’t feature about the models that might carry the new system, or even how Hyundai Kia will brand it. He also added that Microsoft is keen to develop a strong speech experience with its automotive platform, and looks for a potential where the platform becomes the head unit in vehicles. He also suggested that the car manufacturers are searching for low-cost navigation, and suggested a solution of using dashboard left/right indicator lights for route guidance, rather than an expensive LCD.

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