Autoblog http://www.autoblog.com Autoblog http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/www.autoblog.com/media/feedlogo.gif Autoblog http://www.autoblog.com en-us Copyright 2009 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/<![CDATA[Microsoft teams up with automakers for Windows 7 theme packs]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/03/microsoft-teams-up-with-automakers-for-windows-7-theme-packs/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/03/microsoft-teams-up-with-automakers-for-windows-7-theme-packs/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/03/microsoft-teams-up-with-automakers-for-windows-7-theme-packs/#commentsFiled under: ,


Infiniti Essence concept wallpapers for Windows 7 - Click above for high-res image gallery

Microsoft has been in the car business for years, supplying specialized infotainment systems to automakers like Ford and Fiat. But the door swings both ways as a handful of automakers have released special theme packages for the new Windows 7 operating system.

So far Infiniti, Porsche, Ferrari and Ducati have all created custom themes for Windows 7, including desktop wallpapers, slide shows, screen savers and color schemes. Of course, automakers aren't the only companies taking part, with themes also available from Coca-Cola and Pepsi, the upcoming film Avatar, as well as Microsoft's own brands Bing, Gears of War and Zune. Follow the link to check out the growing selection, but unless you've got Windows 7 that's as close as you can get.

[Source: Microsoft]

Microsoft teams up with automakers for Windows 7 theme packs originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 03 Nov 2009 08:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>computerdesktopmicrosoftmicrosoft windowsmicrosoft windows 7MicrosoftWindowsMicrosoftWindows7pcthemewindows 7Windows7Tue, 03 Nov 2009 08:01:00 EST<![CDATA[BREAKING: Hyundai developing competitor for OnStar, Sync... but new system needs a name]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/02/breaking-hyundai-developing-competitor-for-onstar-sync-but/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/02/breaking-hyundai-developing-competitor-for-onstar-sync-but/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/02/breaking-hyundai-developing-competitor-for-onstar-sync-but/#commentsFiled under: , ,


Hyundai Equus - Click above for high-res image gallery

As part of its product and marketing development process, Hyundai has reached out to owners and enthusiasts to create a network of consumers with which to discuss everything from future models and technologies to advertising tactics, polls, and so on.

Autoblog has learned of a communiqué issued to members late last week where Dean Macko, Hyundai's Manager of Brand Strategy, appealed to focus group members to help come up with a name for a new "Advanced Technological System" - a telematics package likened repeatedly to General Motors' OnStar and Ford's Microsoft Sync.

According to Macko, the system Hyundai is pursuing focuses on "four buckets of service": Safety and Security (including theft immobilization and automatic emergency service notification in the event of a crash), Infotainment (wireless connectivity features for telephone, music, etc.), Navigation (like OnStar's turn-by-turn direction service), and Vehicle Diagnostics, a tool for both owners and dealers that could help track the need for maintenance and potentially even notify one's dealer to order parts for a forthcoming repair.

Macko admits Hyundai has come up with a number of possible names on its own, including In Touch, Ring, Fuse and Emerge, but the company is reaching out to its network for suggestions. Calling them "naming experts," Macko indicates that this focus group has already helped come up with titles for future paint colors.

To be clear, in Macko's video message, he only says that Hyundai is "thinking about" introducing such a system - he does not commit to a product, timetable, or price. However, given the tone of his message and the nature of the group that Macko is appealing to, we have to believe that this new technology is just around the corner... perhaps tied to the launch of the Equus luxury sedan?

Hyundai apparently needs these naming suggestions by this Wednesday, November 4, and while most of you probably aren't part of Hyundai's focus group, we know that top company officials trawl these hallowed precincts on a daily basis. Thus, if you have a suggestion of your own, why not drop it in 'Comments' - who knows, they just might pick yours. Thanks for the tip, Mike!


Gallery: Quick Spin: Hyundai Equus

equus_ride---01equus_ride---02equus_ride---03equus_ride---04equus_ride---05

BREAKING: Hyundai developing competitor for OnStar, Sync... but new system needs a name originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 02 Nov 2009 20:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bluetoothbreakingbreakingnewsconnectivityDean MackoDeanMackoFord SyncFordSyncGeneral MotorsGeneralMotorsGMGPShaptichyundaiimmobilizerinfotainmentinfotainment systemInfotainmentSystemMicrosoftMicrosoft SyncMicrosoftSyncOn StarOnstarSat-navtelematictelematicstheft recoveryTheftRecoveryvehicle diagnosticsvehicle immobilizationVehicleDiagnosticsVehicleImmobilizationwireless connectivityWirelessConnectivityMon, 02 Nov 2009 20:31:00 EST<![CDATA[VIDEO: Microsoft may one-up Google Street View with virtual video drives]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/20/video-microsoft-may-one-up-google-street-view-with-virtual-vide/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/20/video-microsoft-may-one-up-google-street-view-with-virtual-vide/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/20/video-microsoft-may-one-up-google-street-view-with-virtual-vide/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Click above to view the video after the jump

Until cars drive themselves and we absolutely can't get lost, automakers and sat nav companies are steadily enhancing the graphics of navigation systems to make it easier to find the next right turn. Navigation systems in Renaults, for instance, provide a graphic representation of buildings that you'll see as you drive along, and now Microsoft, working with researchers at the University of Konstanz in Germany, have added video to navigational maps.

The project took the snapshots of cities collected by mapping companies (like Google Streetview does) and 'plays' them like video at important sections of the route. The text route and route overview are still provided, the video simply aids in noting or remembering where you need to remember a crucial direction.

You can watch the video before you actually get in your car so that, like cheating for an exam, you'll visually recognize the turn or a landmark when the time comes. The photographs are also skewed as necessary to create the right perspective, and when you get to a turn, the video will look in the proper direction beforehand so that you can note specific features. It's currently still in trial phase, but during the first study it improved people's ability to follow direction by 20 percent. Follow the jump to watch the video, and here's to no more getting lost. Soon.

[Source: Microsoft and MIT]

Continue reading VIDEO: Microsoft may one-up Google Street View with virtual video drives

VIDEO: Microsoft may one-up Google Street View with virtual video drives originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 20 Oct 2009 09:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>germanyMicrosoftMicrosoft ResearchMicrosoftResearchnavinavigationnavigation systemNavigationSystemsatnavtechtechnologyuniversity of konstanzUniversityOfKonstanzvideoTue, 20 Oct 2009 09:58:00 EST<![CDATA[VIDEO: The future of car configurators, brought to you on Microsoft Surface]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/09/30/video-the-future-of-car-configurators-brought-to-you-on-micros/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/09/30/video-the-future-of-car-configurators-brought-to-you-on-micros/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/09/30/video-the-future-of-car-configurators-brought-to-you-on-micros/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,


The Neue Digital / Razorfish car configurator - Click above to watch video

Microsoft Surface is, at its most basic, a table-sized touchscreen computer. You can play with them at rather select locations, but we haven't yet begun to see what the thing can do because there aren't enough people investing in applications for it. But for a glimpse of a potential automotive use, Neue Digitale / Razorfish (ND/R) created a configurator that turns accessorizing into building a car in your bare hands.

One of the coolest things about ND/R's take on customizing is that Surface allows for a huge car because the screen is, literally, a table. The haptic controls let you move the car - in this case, an Audi - with a finger or two in any direction, and zooming and jumping in and out of the vehicle take just a few finger touches. The neatest thing of all is the actual physical widget that, when placed on the screen, pulls up a topical menu on the screen that can be flipped through by rotating the widget. And get this: two people can use it at the same time.

It's not quite as revelatory as the configurator that Aston introduced last year for the DBS, only because it's not yet real. But it probably will be soon enough. Follow the jump to have a look at the video.

[Source: Emerging Experiences via German Car Blog]

Continue reading VIDEO: The future of car configurators, brought to you on Microsoft Surface

VIDEO: The future of car configurators, brought to you on Microsoft Surface originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 30 Sep 2009 11:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>audiauto buyingAutoBuyingavantcar buyingcar configuratorCarBuyingCarConfiguratorconfiguratorfalsemicrosoftmicrosoft surfaceMicrosoftSurfaceNeue DigitaleNeueDigitaleRazorfishtechtechnologyvideoWed, 30 Sep 2009 11:30:00 EST<![CDATA[SYNC You Very Much: Ford to help Microsoft promote Windows 7]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/09/29/sync-you-very-much-ford-to-help-microsoft-promote-windows-7/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/09/29/sync-you-very-much-ford-to-help-microsoft-promote-windows-7/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/09/29/sync-you-very-much-ford-to-help-microsoft-promote-windows-7/#commentsFiled under: , ,



Ford and Microsoft, sittin' in a tree... right, you know the rest. With the official October 22nd launch of Windows 7 right around the corner, the Blue Oval has reportedly pledged to support the Washington-based software company's new operating system however it can.

That support will include upgrading all of Ford's own computers from whatever version of Windows they happen to be running (any bets that Ford never made a wholesale switch to Vista?) to the new release. Also making the switch will be Continental Airlines, Starwood Hotels & Resorts and Intel.

Further, these selected companies are currently meeting with Microsoft CEO Steve Ballmer to discuss how else they can help promote Windows 7. Ford's tie-in with the house that Bill built stems from the fact that the two companies paired up to launch Ford's excellent SYNC infotainment system back in 2007.

[Source: Auto Observer, Bloomberg]

SYNC You Very Much: Ford to help Microsoft promote Windows 7 originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 29 Sep 2009 18:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>fordford syncFordSyncmicrosoftmicrosoft syncMicrosoftSyncsyncwindowswindows 7windows sevenWindows7WindowsSevenTue, 29 Sep 2009 18:29:00 EST<![CDATA[Microsoft CEO gets 1,000,000th Ford with SYNC]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/05/28/microsoft-ceo-gets-1-000-000th-sync-vehicle/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/05/28/microsoft-ceo-gets-1-000-000th-sync-vehicle/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/05/28/microsoft-ceo-gets-1-000-000th-sync-vehicle/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


One Millionth SYNC: Click above to view the high-res gallery

Ford and SYNC have combined to be the peanut butter and jelly of automotive tech combo deals. 80% of the vehicles Ford sells now has the infotainment system, helping the Blue Oval and Microsoft reach 1 million sales of the infotainment system in less than two years.

Since Microsoft created the SYNC software, it has just as much reason to celebrate its success as Ford. Microsoft CEO and Detroit native Steve Ballmer decided the best way to celebrate was to get his hands on SYNC vehicle number 1 million; a 2010 Ford Fusion Hybrid. The 41 mpg sedan was delivered by none other than Ford CEO Alan Mulally.

Mulally reiterated his support of SYNC, saying that Ford would "continue to innovate and expand the capability of SYNC by integrating even more new technologies that fit our customers' lifestyles." SYNC already interfaces with navigation and entertainment systems, and 911 Assist helps call emergency services in the event of an accident. SYNC will receive further updates this summer when it gains the ability to deliver traffic, directions and information services. Hit the jump to view the Ford press release, and check out the gallery below to see Mulally deliver a 2010 Fusion Hybrid to the Microsoft CEO.


Gallery: One Millionth SYNC


[Source: Ford]

Continue reading Microsoft CEO gets 1,000,000th Ford with SYNC

Microsoft CEO gets 1,000,000th Ford with SYNC originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 28 May 2009 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ballmerfordFord FusionFordFusionfusionfusion hybridFusionHybridhybridmicrosoftmulallysyncThu, 28 May 2009 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[REPORT: Bill Gates files patent for electromagnetic generator, plasma injector]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/04/15/report-bill-gates-files-patent-for-electromagnetic-generator-p/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/04/15/report-bill-gates-files-patent-for-electromagnetic-generator-p/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/04/15/report-bill-gates-files-patent-for-electromagnetic-generator-p/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,



What's this? A Mr. William H. Gates, III, (that would be Bill Gates of Microsoft fame, of course) is listed as one of the inventors on a recent patent application for an "Electromagnetic engine." What's that mean? According to the filing at the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office, the contraption somehow "converts mechanical energy of a piston to and from electrical energy during each piston cycle." There are two engine designs illustrated in the patent, and the basic premise of both is to combine the electrical generating capabilities of a generator with the moving pistons of an internal combustion engine.

Also on the patent filing is a design for a "plasma injector." Ostensibly a replacement for a spark plug, the plasma injector would kick off "a chemical reaction" (think: combustion cycle) that would be required to get the piston moving in the first place. It's all rather interesting stuff, and if you've got an hour or two (or ten) to digest it, click here.

[Source: U.S. Patent and Trademark Office via Jalopnik]

REPORT: Bill Gates files patent for electromagnetic generator, plasma injector originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 15 Apr 2009 17:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>autobloggreenBill GatesBillGateselectromagneticMicrosoftpatentplasmaplasma injectorPlasmaInjectorWed, 15 Apr 2009 17:59:00 EST<![CDATA[Microsoft Auto 4.0 to take over stereo entirely]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/03/04/microsoft-auto-4-0-to-take-over-stereo-entirely/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/03/04/microsoft-auto-4-0-to-take-over-stereo-entirely/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/03/04/microsoft-auto-4-0-to-take-over-stereo-entirely/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

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]

Microsoft Auto 4.0 to take over stereo entirely originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 04 Mar 2009 09:32:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>blue MeBlueMefordhyundaimicrosoftmicrosoft autoMicrosoftAutosyncWed, 04 Mar 2009 09:32:00 EST<![CDATA[CES 2009: SYNC updated with Traffic, Directions and Information]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/01/08/ces-2009-microsoft-ford-update-sync/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/01/08/ces-2009-microsoft-ford-update-sync/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/01/08/ces-2009-microsoft-ford-update-sync/#commentsFiled under: , ,



Ford and Microsoft debuted SYNC at the 2007 Consumer Electronics Show, updated the system at last year's event and now keep the tradition alive with more enhancements for 2009. The next iteration of SYNC will sport new features able to take full advantage of a user's GPS-enabled bluetooth smartphone.

Boiled down to the bare essentials, these features are summed up as Traffic, Directions and Information. The Traffic feature sends texts messages with traffic alerts to the user's phone, or the SYNC system can read them aloud in the car. The Directions function mimics a full-feature navigation system by displaying directions on the radio and speaking them audibly through the sound system. And finally there's information, which allows users to access sports, weather and news of all types through SYNC.

The best part is that all of these features follow you to any vehicle equipped with SYNC via your smartphone. Ford even claims that the iPhone works with these new capabilities despite the fact Apple limits the phone's Bluetooth capability and AT&T doesn't allow data tethering. We'll be sure to get more details on how all this works later today when we meet with Ford execs and get a demonstration.

The big Blue Oval says it will offer these new SYNC features on almost all Ford, Lincoln and Mercury vehicles with three years of service included right up front. Check out Ford's full press release and see a video demonstrartion of the new features after the jump.

[Source: Ford]

Continue reading CES 2009: SYNC updated with Traffic, Directions and Information

CES 2009: SYNC updated with Traffic, Directions and Information originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 08 Jan 2009 07:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>CESces 2009Ces2009ford syncFordSyncmicrosoftmicrosoft syncMicrosoftSyncsyncThu, 08 Jan 2009 07:59:00 EST<![CDATA[VIDEO: First footage of BMW Product Navigator using Microsoft Surface]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2008/11/30/video-first-footage-of-bmw-product-navigator-using-microsoft-su/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/11/30/video-first-footage-of-bmw-product-navigator-using-microsoft-su/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/11/30/video-first-footage-of-bmw-product-navigator-using-microsoft-su/#commentsFiled under: , ,



We can think of worse things to do than spend a day at a BMW dealership configuring the vehicle of our choice. To make the experience of selecting the Ultimate Driving Machine even more engaging, BMW and Microsoft have teamed up on futuristic touchscreen tech. BMW's Product Navigator is like the iPhone, only supersized and on steroids, and it proves that the inventive types at Microsoft are alive and well. Hit the jump to view BMW's new Product Navigator in action. The tabletop touchscreen interface enables users to pick a BMW, modify colors and content, and even save the finished project to a thumb drive to take home with them. As customers configure their vehicle on the Product Navigator, a plasma TV on the wall displays video and specs of that exact vehicle. Neat. Thanks for the tip, Markus!

[Source: YouTube]

Continue reading VIDEO: First footage of BMW Product Navigator using Microsoft Surface

VIDEO: First footage of BMW Product Navigator using Microsoft Surface originally appeared on Autoblog on Sun, 30 Nov 2008 09:04:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>BMWBMW Product ManagerBmwProductManagerMicrosofttouch screenTouchScreenSun, 30 Nov 2008 09:04:00 EST<![CDATA[Hyundai/Kia teams up with Microsoft on in-car infortainment]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2008/11/04/hyundai-kia-teams-up-with-microsoft-on-in-car-infortainment/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/11/04/hyundai-kia-teams-up-with-microsoft-on-in-car-infortainment/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/11/04/hyundai-kia-teams-up-with-microsoft-on-in-car-infortainment/#commentsFiled under: , ,



Ford won't be the only automaker in the U.S. to have Microsoft technology underhood for long, as Hyundai has hooked up with the software giant on new infotainment technology partnership. The first new jointly produced system will provide voice-controlled connectivity between mobile devices for Hyundai and Kia vehicles beginning in 2010. Microsoft will also work with Korea's Institute for IT Advancement to open an Automotive IT Innovation Centre in Seoul. The Korean auto giant will partner with Microsoft on auto telecommunication, telematics, navigation systems, and improving Human Machine Interface technology.

Recent developments in automotive technology show that infotainment tech like Ford's SYNC and BMW's in-car Internet systems are hot. Microsoft appears to be capitalizing on the new trend by netting a second automotive partner, while Hyundai gets the new interactive tech that customers are craving. If its cars are anything to go by, Hyundai's version of the technology will probably cost less and do more.

[Source: Hyundai]

Continue reading Hyundai/Kia teams up with Microsoft on in-car infortainment

Hyundai/Kia teams up with Microsoft on in-car infortainment originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 04 Nov 2008 08:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>hyundaiinfotainiment systemsInfotainimentSystemsmicrosoftsyncTue, 04 Nov 2008 08:59:00 EST<![CDATA[Microsoft getting into the car WiFi biz]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2008/08/29/microsoft-getting-into-the-car-wifi-biz/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/08/29/microsoft-getting-into-the-car-wifi-biz/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/08/29/microsoft-getting-into-the-car-wifi-biz/#commentsFiled under:

The Internet has been invading every aspect of our lives, but until recently most of us have gone without a connection to the World Wide Web inside our cars. That's changing with third party companies and OEMs beginning to offer 3G WiFi solutions for automobiles, and Microsoft says it's working on an even better idea. The Seattle-based software giant is working with the Universities of Massachusetts and Washington to develop a more reliable WiFi experience that enables the reception of multiple signals simultaneously to cut back on choppy service.

Microsoft's WiFi solution would leverage fledgling municipal wireless infrastructures to bring the Internet to your car. The Ballmer boys are betting that WiFi services will spread like wildfire in the future, and its new technology will be able to utilize multiple signals at the same time to make in-car Internet as smooth as what you get at home. On the surface, in-car Internet sounds ridiculous, but think of all the iPhone-like apps that could make your life easier. Weather, navigation, information, show times, and even gaming for your passengers would be a click away. You could even read Autoblog in the parking lot while your spouse goes shopping.

[Source: Kicking Tires]

Microsoft getting into the car WiFi biz originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 29 Aug 2008 08:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>in-car internetIn-carInternetmicrosoftmicrosoft wifiMicrosoftWifivifiFri, 29 Aug 2008 08:29:00 EST<![CDATA[Tech avalanche: Microsoft goes big for automotive]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2008/07/29/tech-avalanche-microsoft-goes-big-for-automotive/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/07/29/tech-avalanche-microsoft-goes-big-for-automotive/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/07/29/tech-avalanche-microsoft-goes-big-for-automotive/#commentsFiled under: ,

The rapidly shrinking US auto market has left automakers scrambling for any way to differentiate their products from the competition, and the fastest way to get the job done is with technology. Microsoft is all too aware of this, and the tech giant is betting big on automotive to give itself a larger presence in a rapidly growing field. Microsoft has increased both staffing and funding by 30% in an effort to get in on the connectivity and infotainment ground floor. Sync has been Microsoft's crowning achievement in the automotive space to date, with over 200,000 units sold so far and 1 m expected by the end of 2009. Though Ford owns Sync branding rights, Microsoft will be able to peddle the inexpensive system to other automakers in 2009. Microsoft's "Live Search" technology is also available to automakers, and it will spawn in-car systems that allow drivers to search for nearby businesses.

Since every other aspect of our lives is now interconnected, it makes sense for cars to follow the trend. Whether you love the Microsoft or hate it, having the 800-pound gorilla in the automotive realm is a good thing. We just hope we won't have to worry about a blue screen of death plaguing our family wagon.

[Source: Detroit News]

Tech avalanche: Microsoft goes big for automotive originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 29 Jul 2008 16:33:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>fordMicrosoftsynctechnologyTue, 29 Jul 2008 16:33:00 EST<![CDATA[Hyundai, Kia to get version of Microsoft's in-car connectivity]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2008/05/06/hyundai-kia-to-get-version-of-microsofts-sync/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/05/06/hyundai-kia-to-get-version-of-microsofts-sync/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/05/06/hyundai-kia-to-get-version-of-microsofts-sync/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

While Ford has enjoyed a year of exclusivity with its SYNC-branded version of Microsoft's in-car connectivity technology, the Redmond-based company has been itching to expand the availability of its in-car gadget integration system to other marques. According to the AP, the first post-Ford carmakers to use the platform in the U.S. will be sister companies Hyundai and Kia.

According to the report, the Korean automakers will have the right to offer the technology on its cars in November, but probably won't do so. The AP report quotes Velle Kolde, senior product manager for Microsoft Auto, saying the two companies are busy developing their own custom applications and don't plan to be ready until after that date.

There is no word yet on what the new system will be named, its cost or what vehicles it will be offered on. Currently the only automaker offering Microsoft's system in the U.S. is Ford. Fiat has rights to sell it internationally and calls its version Blue&Me.

UPDATE: Ford reminded us that only its version of Microsoft Auto's technology is called SYNC, so other brands will have to come up with and market their own names for it.

[Source: Associated Press]

Hyundai, Kia to get version of Microsoft's in-car connectivity originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 06 May 2008 10:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>hyundaikiamicrosoftmicrosoft hyundaimicrosoft kiaMicrosoftHyundaiMicrosoftKiasynctelematicsTue, 06 May 2008 10:02:00 EST<![CDATA[Microsoft launches new Clearflow traffic avoidance system]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2008/04/14/microsoft-launches-new-clearflow-traffic-avoidance-system/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/04/14/microsoft-launches-new-clearflow-traffic-avoidance-system/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/04/14/microsoft-launches-new-clearflow-traffic-avoidance-system/#commentsFiled under: ,



Eric Horvitz is the president of the Association for the Advancement of Artificial Intelligence, as well as being an AI researcher at Microsoft. When stuck in traffic one day in Seattle, he asked his nav system to reroute him via side streets, and the result was worse than being stuck on the highway. That incident turned into four years of research and data collection on traffic patterns to create the Clearflow traffic avoidance system for Microsoft's web portal-based Live Search Maps.

The point of Clearflow is to provide accurate route information that gives you the best chance to avoid traffic on highways and on the side streets. By logging data from 16,500 trips over 125,000 miles, Microsoft engineers came up with algorithms to predict traffic flow on highways and adjacent streets, the latter of which can be even more crowded than the main arteries.

Using the data collected in Seattle, along with the results from highway sensors, the system works for 72 cities, and can "predict congestion based on time of day, weather and other variables like sporting events." Clearflow went live Thursday, April 10, with the choice to "Choose route based on traffic".

[Source: New York Times]

Microsoft launches new Clearflow traffic avoidance system originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 14 Apr 2008 09:03:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>clearflowclearflow traffic avoidanceClearflowTrafficAvoidancecongestionmicrosofttraffic conditionstraffic congestiontraffic controltraffic jamsTrafficConditionsTrafficCongestionTrafficControlTrafficJamsMon, 14 Apr 2008 09:03:00 EST<![CDATA[Microsoft sees in-car advertising coming]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2008/03/07/microsoft-sees-in-car-advertising-coming/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/03/07/microsoft-sees-in-car-advertising-coming/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/03/07/microsoft-sees-in-car-advertising-coming/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Ford's SYNC system is winning friends left and right, with CNET giving it the nod as Coolest New Car Tech and The Detroit News calling it "the best $395 option of 2007". Sales of the Ford Focus, in which the system debuted, are up 22.5% this year, despite the car's iffy redesign. According to Ford, consumers are choosing to add SYNC to their cars two to one over those who skip it, and Microsoft, which supplies the software to run SYNC, has noticed this popularity. The software giant from Redmond has pretty big plans for its Automotive Business Unit beyond supporting Ford's SYNC system, and hopes to give its software system "daily relevance" within five years by networking infotainment systems with each other. A local search function, for instance, could offer multiple possible routes based on up-to-the-minute information gathered from the network.

All of these upgrades need to be paid for somehow, and Martin Thall, the General Manager of Microsoft's Automotive Business Unit, has suggested that they may integrate advertisements into the infotainment system as opposed to charging subscription fees like General Motors does with its OnStar service. After all, you hear ads on your radio and pass by billboards every time you get in your car, right? Would serving up advertisements or coupons to Starbucks while you're driving be a distraction, though? They better think this through carefully.

[Source: CNET]

Microsoft sees in-car advertising coming originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 07 Mar 2008 16:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>fordmicrosoftmicrosoft syncmicrosoft-syncMicrosoftSyncsyncsync advertisingsync-advertisingSyncAdvertisingFri, 07 Mar 2008 16:29:00 EST<![CDATA[CES 2008: Bill Gates announces SYNC 2.0]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2008/01/06/ces-2008-bill-gates-announces-sync-2-0/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/01/06/ces-2008-bill-gates-announces-sync-2-0/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/01/06/ces-2008-bill-gates-announces-sync-2-0/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,



SYNC appears to be a big win so far for Ford, with the communications technology helping to move vehicles off dealer lots faster than vehicles without the system. Ford and Microsoft have been working to take SYNC to the next level, however, and the changes announced by Bill Gates at CES show that the technology is on an upward trajectory. Gates announced two new capabilities for SYNC that will help Ford offer a richer multimedia experience while competing with GM's OnStar satellite service.

First, SYNC will soon be able to assist drivers in calling 911 if an accident is detected. Drivers will need a SYNC-paired phone for SYNC 911 Assist to work, and since the SYNC simply uses the driver's phone, there is no monthly charge for the service. Ford tells us that it had to clear hurdles for 911 Assist because the government doesn't want systems to call 911 without human intervention, so a 10-second buffer gives drivers the ability to cancel the call. If the occupants of the vehicle are incapacitated, SYNC will automatically call 911 if the driver doesn't cancel the 911 call after 10 seconds. Ford points out that 911 Assist doesn't need an operator working as a 911 middle-man, giving it a speed advantage over OnStar. Hit the jump to read about SYNC's Vehicle Health Reports and Ford's official press release.

You can see a gallery of photos from the CES announcement here.

[Source: Ford]

Gallery: CES 2008: Microsoft announces SYNC 2.0

Continue reading CES 2008: Bill Gates announces SYNC 2.0

CES 2008: Bill Gates announces SYNC 2.0 originally appeared on Autoblog on Sun, 06 Jan 2008 21:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>breakingFordLincolnMercuryMicrosoftSYNCSYNC 2.0SYNC updatesSync2.0SyncUpdatesSun, 06 Jan 2008 21:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Popular Mechanics honors Ford's SYNC]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2007/10/11/popular-mechanics-honors-fords-sync/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/10/11/popular-mechanics-honors-fords-sync/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/10/11/popular-mechanics-honors-fords-sync/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,



Popular Mechanics is handing out its breakthrough awards, and Ford's SYNC made its way into the tech magazine's top 10 breakthrough products. SYNC's reasonable $395 price tag and voice recognition capability gave Ford and Microsoft's joint project the edge, and Popular Mechanics also really liked the fact that SYNC can read your text messages to you. SYNC will be available on 12 Ford products for the 2008 model year, with more availability in 2009.

Ford wasn't the only automaker to make its way onto the breakthrough award list, either. GM, BMW, and DaimlerChrysler's joint Two-Mode Hybrid project was also recognized for its ability to save fuel on the gas guzzlers that need it most.

[Source: Popular Mechanics]

Popular Mechanics honors Ford's SYNC originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 11 Oct 2007 18:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Audio entertainmentAudioEntertainmentFord SYNCFordSyncMicrosoftPopular MechanicsPopularMechanicsThu, 11 Oct 2007 18:57:00 EST<![CDATA[Microsoft and Siemens partner for in-car entertainment system]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2007/09/07/microsoft-and-siemens-partner-for-in-car-entertainment-system/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/09/07/microsoft-and-siemens-partner-for-in-car-entertainment-system/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/09/07/microsoft-and-siemens-partner-for-in-car-entertainment-system/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,


Siemens and Microsoft have announced a joint partnership to develop the next generation of in-car entertainment and sat-nav products, which, much like the Ford/Microsoft Sync system, will allow users to connect everything from mobile phones to media players. Recognizing that standalone audio systems are quickly becoming a thing of the past, the new system seeks to integrate every facet of the "digital lifestyle" into one all-encompassing unit. The fruits of their labors should be in production by 2009, assuming all goes well over in Redmond.

[Source: Automotive News - Sub. Req.]

Microsoft and Siemens partner for in-car entertainment system originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 07 Sep 2007 17:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>in-car entertainmentIn-carEntertainmentipodmicrosoftmp3navigationsiemenssyncFri, 07 Sep 2007 17:58:00 EST<![CDATA[Greatest video game accessory EVAR]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2007/08/25/greatest-video-game-accessory-ever/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/08/25/greatest-video-game-accessory-ever/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/08/25/greatest-video-game-accessory-ever/#commentsFiled under: , ,



Home racing games have come a long way since Pole Position, with controllers providing feedback to virtual drivers, while true to life graphics and vehicle driving dynamics making the action feel much more real. Microsoft has even engineered some real-life smoke from their official steering wheel, even though the software giant from Redmond, Washington really wishes the problem didn't exist.

The pneumatic experts at Festo have taken a big step towards making the most real-life racing game experience, and the extent of on-road feel of their new contraption looks very impressive. Festo uses Fluidic Muscles and mechatronic systems to give users a true sensation of either driving or flying, depending on the software being used. It's really more of an industrial simulator than a game, and we're pretty sure it costs a bit more than a Playstation 3. Either way, we'll need to come up with a business case to AOL for buying one for the Autoblog team. You can check out a video of the Festo system after the jump.

Thanks for the tip, thesawzall!

Continue reading Greatest video game accessory EVAR

Greatest video game accessory EVAR originally appeared on Autoblog on Sat, 25 Aug 2007 18:27:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>AirmotionFestoGamingMicrosoftRacing gameRacingGameSat, 25 Aug 2007 18:27:00 EST