Microsoft Auto 4.0 to take over stereo entirely
Infotainment systems have taken off over the past couple of years, and Microsoft is looking to keep the momentum going with an upgrade to its Microsoft Auto software. Version 4.0 will add the ability to control a vehicle's entire stereo as well as its communication system. This way, only one piece of hardware will be needed to perform both tasks where it currently requires two. The software launches in the Spring and should save big bucks for OEM that adopt it.Ford and Fiat currently use an older version of Microsoft Autos, which the automakers have branded as SYNC and Blue & Me, respectively. Hyundai also struck a deal with Microsoft last year to include the Redmond's automotive software in future models. There's no word yet on when Ford and Fiat will incorporate MA4 into their systems, but considering the success of SYNC in the U.S. at least, we're guessing soon.
[Source: Automotive News subs req'd]
Reader Comments (Page 1 of 1)
eb110americana 1:11AM (3/05/2009)
Forget the automakers, when can I buy one? How great would it be to update an older vehicle with things like voice recognition, navigation, built in hard drive, and mp3 capability. It's probably possible now, but not without going totally Pimp-My-Ride on your car, thereby banishing a great deal of class in the process.
Having a cohesive, single piece of hardware with all the software not only developed, but installed and tested would be a great option. Then adding a few peripherals like a touch screen, DVD drive, or iPod connectivity could be optionally upgraded the the base Sync system and mounted in any vehicle.
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inteller 11:19AM (3/30/2009)
I'll take mine with 3G connectivity via bluetooth tethering please.
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