Autoblog http://www.autoblog.com Autoblog http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/www.autoblog.com/media/feedlogo.gif Autoblog http://www.autoblog.com en-us Copyright 2013 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/<![CDATA[Hand gesture controls coming to a car near you?]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/07/29/hand-gesture-controls-coming-to-a-car-near-you/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/07/29/hand-gesture-controls-coming-to-a-car-near-you/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/07/29/hand-gesture-controls-coming-to-a-car-near-you/#commentsFiled under: ,

Microsoft Kinect

It looks as if the gesture-sensitive interface for the Cadillac Cue infotainment system is just the beginning of gesture integration in our vehicles. Wired reports that Microsoft is already investigating ways to incorporate technology lifted from its Xbox Kinect. Likewise, Harman has unveiled a new system that recognizes both hand and facial cues to control various cabin features. Drivers can reportedly use eye blinks to turn the stereo on, tilt their heads to turn up the volume and even tap the steering wheel to skip songs. Temperature adjustment gets taken care of by raising or lowering a hand above the gear shift, while pulling up a Bluetooth-connected phone is as simple as mimicking a phone with a hand.

How does it work? The system relies on an infrared sensor to "watch" for certain gestures. When it sees them, it passes a signal to separate processor, which in turn handles the connected hardware.

That sounds all well and good, but as anyone who's stood cursing at a motion-activated faucet in an airport restroom can tell you, these systems aren't foolproof. Fortunately, Harman says it won't have anything ready for market until it's been thoroughly tested, which may be up to three years from now.

Hand gesture controls coming to a car near you? originally appeared on Autoblog on Sun, 29 Jul 2012 19:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cadillac cuecuegesturegesture controlharmankinectmicrosoftxboxxbox kinectSun, 29 Jul 2012 19:02:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20287148/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/07/29/hand-gesture-controls-coming-to-a-car-near-you/20287148/article-detail.xml 20287148 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/07/microsoft-kinect_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/07/microsoft-kinect.jpg <![CDATA[Porsche Expansion Pack available today for Forza Motorsport 4]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/05/22/porsche-expansion-pack-available-today-for-forza-motorsport-4/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/05/22/porsche-expansion-pack-available-today-for-forza-motorsport-4/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/05/22/porsche-expansion-pack-available-today-for-forza-motorsport-4/#commentsFiled under: ,



The day has finally arrived. Porsche cars have returned to the Forza Motorsport series on XBox 360 with the availability today of the Porsche Expansion Pack for Forza Motorsport 4. Pony up 1600 Microsoft Points ($19.99 in real world money) and you'll get 30 new cars, 20 new events, 10 new achievements and a Porsche-only Rivals Mode. Developer Turn 10 says that seven of the cars (scroll down for a full list) are all-new to the Forza series, which brings the game's fourth installment - including all of the vehicles released via downloadable content - to a grand total of 625 cars.

We know what you're thinking. Twenty bones is a lot to drop on a single chunk of downloadable content when you've already paid $60 for the game itself and another $30 for the Season Pass, the latter of which has already filled your virtual garage with dozens and dozens of extra cars to drive. That's all true, and no one would blame you for passing on this Porsche DLC, especially considering that Porsches were included with the price of the game in Forza 1, 2 and 3.

Consider this: 959, 962, 911 Sport Classic, GT2 RS ... Those are just four of the thirty cars from Stuttgart that you'll be passing up the opportunity to drive (digitally) if you say no to the Porsche Expansion Pack. So now that you're armed with all of the info, you can make the decision that's right for you while we go download our decision.

Scroll down to check out the official gameplay trailer that shows all 30 vehicles in action, as well as the full list of all 30 vehicles included in the Porsche Expansion Pack.

Continue reading Porsche Expansion Pack available today for Forza Motorsport 4

Porsche Expansion Pack available today for Forza Motorsport 4 originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 22 May 2012 16:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>forzaforza motorsport 4microsoftporscheporsche expansion passseason passturn 10xbox 360Tue, 22 May 2012 16:28:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20242866/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/05/22/porsche-expansion-pack-available-today-for-forza-motorsport-4/20242866/article-detail.xml 20242866 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/05/porsche-expansion-pack-1_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/05/porsche-expansion-pack-1.jpg <![CDATA[February ALMS Pack brings R18 and 787B to Forza 4 [w/video]]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/31/february-alms-pack-brings-r18-and-787b-to-forza-4-w-video/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/31/february-alms-pack-brings-r18-and-787b-to-forza-4-w-video/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/31/february-alms-pack-brings-r18-and-787b-to-forza-4-w-video/#commentsFiled under: ,

Audi R18 TDI on Forza Motorsport 4

If you've been enjoying Forza 4 on your Xbox 360 but have been clamoring for some new cars to try out, you'll want to mark February 7 on your calendar. That's when Microsoft is releasing the new American Le Mans Series pack, complete with ten new cars in digital, downloadable format.

The February ALMS Pack includes some serious race machinery, including the Audi R18 TDI that reigns as current champion at the 24 Hours of Le Mans, the Mazda 787B that was the last Japanese car to win the race back in 1991, the new Panoz Abruzzi "Spirit of Le Mans", and the iconic 1986 Audi Sport Quattro S1. Also included are the Platinum Motorsport Bentley Continental GT, Quinton "Rampage" Jackson's Dodge Challenger SRT8, the 1992 Alfa Romeo 155 Q4 touring-car-for-the-road, the 1995 Ford Mustang Cobra R, the Holden HSV GTS and, for when a little hatchback is called for, the Volkswagen Polo GTI.

The downloadable content pack is included in the Forza Motorsport 4 Season Pass, or can be bought for 560 MS Points (worth $7). Check out the new additions in the video after the jump and the image gallery above.

Continue reading February ALMS Pack brings R18 and 787B to Forza 4 [w/video]

February ALMS Pack brings R18 and 787B to Forza 4 [w/video] originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 31 Jan 2012 19:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dlcfebruary alms packforzaforza 4forza motorsportforza motorsport 4microsoftturn 10turn 10 studiosvideoxboxxbox 360Tue, 31 Jan 2012 19:30:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20161338/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/01/31/february-alms-pack-brings-r18-and-787b-to-forza-4-w-video/20161338/article-detail.xml 20161338 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/01/webr18-fm4_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/01/webr18-fm4.jpg <![CDATA[Ford says SYNC base is now 4M, will reach 13M by 2015]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/14/ford-says-sync-base-is-now-4m-will-reach-13m-by-2015/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/14/ford-says-sync-base-is-now-4m-will-reach-13m-by-2015/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/14/ford-says-sync-base-is-now-4m-will-reach-13m-by-2015/#commentsFiled under: ,

MyFord Touch

Ford SYNC is a success. The connectivity software has found its way into four million cars since its introduction in 2007. With European and Asian buyers getting SYNC for the first time this year, and North American offerings like the Fusion and Flex getting it as standard equipment, Ford expects to add nine million more users by 2015.

The prediction isn't solely based car buyers' increased access to SYNC; even in the U.S. the uptake continues to grow, from 80 percent of buyers in 2010 to 82 percent in 2011. The percentage of those recommending SYNC has remained stable at 80 percent, but that might also rise with more features and apps on the way. You can read all about it in the press release after the jump.

Continue reading Ford says SYNC base is now 4M, will reach 13M by 2015

Ford says SYNC base is now 4M, will reach 13M by 2015 originally appeared on Autoblog on Sat, 14 Jan 2012 14:36:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ford syncinfotainmentmicrosoftmicrosoft syncsyncSat, 14 Jan 2012 14:36:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20147874/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/01/14/ford-says-sync-base-is-now-4m-will-reach-13m-by-2015/20147874/article-detail.xml 20147874 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/01/fordsync4m_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/01/fordsync4m.jpg <![CDATA[Forza 4 brings Kinect functionality to the racing sim]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/06/02/forza-4-brings-kinect-functionality-to-its-racing-sim/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/06/02/forza-4-brings-kinect-functionality-to-its-racing-sim/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/06/02/forza-4-brings-kinect-functionality-to-its-racing-sim/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

forza 4 kinect demo
Forza 4 and Kinect in action - Click above to watch video after the jump

Polyphony Digital took its sweet time bringing us GT5. It took five years for the game to arrive in stores and the homes of PS3 fans across the world. Turn 10 Studios clearly works a bit quicker, and the next chapter in the Forza series is on schedule for a late 2011 arrival. Forza 4 will no doubt be packed with slick graphics and drool-inducing vehicles, but the gaming company is also taking advantage of another Microsoft tie-in - Kinect.

The Kinect system for the Xbox 360 "sees" a players movements. Kinect allows the player to interact with the game, without using controllers. Forza 4 will allow a user to drive a car using his or her hands to mimic a steering wheel. It's more than playing "kiddie vroom vroom" though. Kinect will allow you to look into turns, take tours of the vehicles and walk around the parked cars.

Sounds kind of crazy? Click past the jump to check it out for yourself.

Continue reading Forza 4 brings Kinect functionality to the racing sim

Forza 4 brings Kinect functionality to the racing sim originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 02 Jun 2011 19:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>forzaforza 4kinectkinect driving gamekinect forza 4kinect racing gamemicrosoftvideoxboxxbox 360Thu, 02 Jun 2011 19:57:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19957055/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/06/02/forza-4-brings-kinect-functionality-to-its-racing-sim/19957055/article-detail.xml 19957055 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/06/forza-4_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/06/forza-4.jpg <![CDATA[Microsoft and Volkswagen team up for in-car file storage]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/05/07/microsoft-and-volkswagen-team-up-for-in-car-file-storage/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/05/07/microsoft-and-volkswagen-team-up-for-in-car-file-storage/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/05/07/microsoft-and-volkswagen-team-up-for-in-car-file-storage/#commentsFiled under: , ,

volkswagen and microsoft logosThe House that Gates Built has teamed up with the Volkswagen Group to develop the next generation of automotive information and entertainment delivery strategies.

A firm called e.solutions supplies Volkswagen with its infotainment software. Microsoft has signed an agreement to license its Extended File Allocation Table (exFAT) technology to e.solutions, which allows the software developer to squeeze more information into smaller spaces. Also, the speed at which that data can be accessed will get a shot in the arm. Read more about this partnership in the full press release posted after the jump.

Continue reading Microsoft and Volkswagen team up for in-car file storage

Microsoft and Volkswagen team up for in-car file storage originally appeared on Autoblog on Sat, 07 May 2011 12:33:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>datae.solutionsexfatinfotainmentmicrosoftvolkswagenvolkswagen groupSat, 07 May 2011 12:33:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19933144/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/05/07/microsoft-and-volkswagen-team-up-for-in-car-file-storage/19933144/article-detail.xml 19933144 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/05/vw-microsoft_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/05/vw-microsoft.jpg <![CDATA[New York 2011: Kia updates 2012 Soul with new engines, transmissions and style]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/04/21/2012-kia-soul-new-york-2011/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/04/21/2012-kia-soul-new-york-2011/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/04/21/2012-kia-soul-new-york-2011/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

2012 Kia Soul at the 2011 New York Auto Show
2012 Kia Soul - Click above for high-res image gallery

Kia has introduced the updated 2012 Soul at the 2011 New York Auto Show. The quirky box has received a slew of styling updates both inside and out alongside a number of mechanical improvements designed to give the vehicle a little extra power and fuel efficiency, to boot. Up front, the Soul gains projection-beam headlights accented with LED daytime running lights, and two new paint colors have been added to the option sheet - Canyon and Moss. Indoors, top-trim buyers are treated to Kia's new Microsoft-branded hands-free connectivity system called UVO or an optional navigation system for the first time.

But the most exciting news comes from under the Soul's hood. The engineers at Kia have fitted an all-new 1.6-liter direct-injected four-cylinder engine that produces 135 horsepower and 121 pound-feet of torque. That's a pony increase of 11 percent over the old, non-DI 1.6-liter engine, and Kia says that when coupled to either a new six-speed manual transmission or a similarly minty six-speed automatic gearbox, which replace the old five-speed manual and four-speed automatic, the engine will return 28 miles per gallon in the city and 34 mpg highway.

A more powerful 2.0-liter engine is also still on hand, but Kia has a new version that's more powerful than the one it replaces, producing 160 hp or 18 hp more than the engine its replacing, and it too can now be bolted to the new six-speed transmissions. Fuel economy for the updated 2.0-liter engine is now rated at 27 mpg city and 33 mpg highway for both cogswappers. Follow the jump for the full press blast.


Gallery: 2012 Kia Soul: New York 2011


Gallery: 2012 Kia Soul


Live photos copyright (C)2011 Drew Phillips / AOL

[Source: Kia]

Continue reading New York 2011: Kia updates 2012 Soul with new engines, transmissions and style

New York 2011: Kia updates 2012 Soul with new engines, transmissions and style originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 21 Apr 2011 11:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2011 new york2011 new york auto show20122012 kia soulkiamicrosoftnew yorknew york auto showsoulThu, 21 Apr 2011 11:01:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19917589/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/04/21/2012-kia-soul-new-york-2011/19917589/article-detail.xml 19917589 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/04/02-2012-kia-soul-ny-opt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/04/02-2012-kia-soul-ny-opt.jpg <![CDATA[Toyota and Microsoft hook up on next-gen telematics]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/04/06/toyota-and-microsoft-hook-up-on-next-gen-telematics/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/04/06/toyota-and-microsoft-hook-up-on-next-gen-telematics/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/04/06/toyota-and-microsoft-hook-up-on-next-gen-telematics/#commentsFiled under: , ,

toyota emblem

Toyota has officially announced that it's teaming up with Microsoft. The two have formed a partnership with a goal of developing the next generation of telecommunication and information technology for automobiles.

Telematics, as readers are no doubt aware, encompasses technology that ranges from navigation systems and multimedia players to energy management. Utilizing the Windows Azure platform, Toyota and Microsoft will create a variety of systems that could begin appearing as early as 2012. The ultimate goal, however, will be to have a cloud platform from which Toyota customers can utilize telematics services around the globe. To reach that target, the companies are investing one billion yen (or nearly $12 million USD) in the joint venture.

We're not yet sure if this will lead to a Ford Sync-like system for Toyota, but it's certainly a good start towards creating one. Check past the jump for the full press release and more information on this partnership.

[Source: Toyota]

Continue reading Toyota and Microsoft hook up on next-gen telematics

Toyota and Microsoft hook up on next-gen telematics originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 06 Apr 2011 16:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>microsofttelematicstoyotatoyota microsoft dealtoyota microsoft partnershipWed, 06 Apr 2011 16:30:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19905026/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/04/06/toyota-and-microsoft-hook-up-on-next-gen-telematics/19905026/article-detail.xml 19905026 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/10/toyota-emblem-with-sign-630_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/10/toyota-emblem-with-sign-630.jpg <![CDATA[Ford takes SYNC to Europe, expands to 19 languages]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/03/01/ford-takes-sync-to-europe-expands-to-19-languages/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/03/01/ford-takes-sync-to-europe-expands-to-19-languages/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/03/01/ford-takes-sync-to-europe-expands-to-19-languages/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Ford Sync - country list

Ford has announced it will debut its SYNC system in Europe in the 2012 Ford Focus, expanding its current language range from three to 19.

The Microsoft-based system first launched in the States in 2007, and has met with enough success to pursue global marketing of the platform. Ford is working with Nuance Communications to make sure that SYNC users get a similar experience no matter what country they are in or what language they speak.

Sound difficult? It was, particularly in Europe, where language and dialect changes are frequent. Working with Nuance, Ford managed to get SYNC to work so well that a German driving in Italy can get directions in his native tongue while preserving proper Italian pronunciation of street names street names. Pretty spiffy.

[Source: Ford]

Ford takes SYNC to Europe, expands to 19 languages originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 01 Mar 2011 08:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>fordford sync globalglobalmicrosoftmicrosoft syncsynctelematicsTue, 01 Mar 2011 08:01:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19861894/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/03/01/ford-takes-sync-to-europe-expands-to-19-languages/19861894/article-detail.xml 19861894 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/02/ford-sync-global_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/02/ford-sync-global.jpg <![CDATA[Ford's SYNC now in three million vehicles and counting]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/01/06/fords-sync-now-in-three-million-vehicles-and-counting/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/01/06/fords-sync-now-in-three-million-vehicles-and-counting/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/01/06/fords-sync-now-in-three-million-vehicles-and-counting/#commentsFiled under: ,

Ford Sync

Sync first showed up in 2007, when it was offered as a $395 option in the 2008 Ford Focus. Since then, the Sync system has gone on to find a home in nearly all of Ford and Lincoln's vehicles. The infotainment system has helped raise the average transaction price of Ford vehicle sales, and, after installing the three millionth system, there appear to be no signs of a Sync slowdown.

The customer has spoken and they want Sync. It comes standard on the Lincoln lineup but 80 percent of Ford customers spend the extra dough if Sync is available for their vehicle. As issues with distracted driving continue to rise to the forefront of safety discussions, customers will continue to gobble up products like the Sync system. If a driver is able to stay connected while keeping his or eyes on the road (or at least consumers believe that to be the case), it may not be long until Sync celebrates its 10 millionth unit sold.

[Source: Ford]

Continue reading Ford's SYNC now in three million vehicles and counting

Ford's SYNC now in three million vehicles and counting originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 06 Jan 2011 08:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>distracted drivingfordford focusford syncinfotainmentlincolnmicrosoftmicrosoft syncsyncsync systemThu, 06 Jan 2011 08:29:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19785114/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/01/06/fords-sync-now-in-three-million-vehicles-and-counting/19785114/article-detail.xml 19785114 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/10/ford-2010107-1024-10-630op_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/10/ford-2010107-1024-10-630op.jpg <![CDATA[DeLorean branding coming to Microsoft, Mattel and more]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2010/12/03/delorean-branding-coming-to-microsoft-mattel-and-more/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/12/03/delorean-branding-coming-to-microsoft-mattel-and-more/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/12/03/delorean-branding-coming-to-microsoft-mattel-and-more/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Delorean with Microsoft and Mattel

DeLorean Motor Company recently teamed up with Nike, to bring us a limited-edition sneaker modeled after the iconic, gullwing DMC-12. The Nike Dunk 6.0 DeLorean was limited to just 1,000 pairs and they sold out as soon as stores flipped the sign from CLOSED to OPEN. If you're a fan of the DMC brand but were unable to snag a pair of kicks, don't fret, because the Texas-based automaker reportedly has big plans to expand its brands.

According to Forbes, the DeLorean team is partnering up with companies like Mattel, Microsoft and Now & Zen. This means a line of DMC-branded toys, clothing and ... WinAmp skins? We're not quite sure what DeLorean and Microsoft are working on, but if the DMC brand stays hot, then the two could produce DeLorean-themed computer mice and they'd sell like hotcakes. Wait... we'd actually buy one of those. Quick, someone call RoadMice.

[Source: Forbes | Source Image: TheSelvedgeYard]

DeLorean branding coming to Microsoft, Mattel and more originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 03 Dec 2010 13:32:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>deloreandelorean dmc-12delorean motor companydelorean toysgullwingmattelmicrosoftnikenike dunk deloreannow zenFri, 03 Dec 2010 13:32:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19742764/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2010/12/03/delorean-branding-coming-to-microsoft-mattel-and-more/19742764/article-detail.xml 19742764 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/12/delorean_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/12/delorean.jpg <![CDATA[Will Ford's Sync lose ground to Fiat's Blue & Me?]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2010/11/30/will-fords-sync-lose-ground-to-fiats-blue-and-me/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/11/30/will-fords-sync-lose-ground-to-fiats-blue-and-me/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/11/30/will-fords-sync-lose-ground-to-fiats-blue-and-me/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Microsoft branded auto USB port

It recognizes hundreds of voice commands. It will interface with your Bluetooth-enabled smart phone. It was co-developed with Microsoft. Sounds like Ford's popular SYNC tech, right? Sure does, but it also smacks of Fiat's Blue & Me system that has been in production in Europe since 2007. The technology will be available stateside when the tiny Fiat 500 goes on sale early in 2011. The cost? $500 in a base 500, and the system is standard on uplevel Sport and Lounge models.

Like the Fiat 500 itself, Blue & Me certainly sound compelling, but it's one small niche product in a sea of cars, trucks and crossovers. Perhaps more significant is the fact that Fiat's infotainment tech could be available in Chrysler products as early as 2012. And while B&M apparently doesn't do everything as well as SYNC, it also carries some advantages of its own. For instance, 500 Sport and Lounge buyers can shell out an extra $400 for an optional Tom Tom navigation system that interfaces with the voice command system. Fiat also enables drivers to download their driving habits to a USB stick and load it to a website called Eco:Ville. The site will process the data and give drivers tips for more efficient driving.

So will Blue & Me become as popular as SYNC? Who knows, but at the very least it's nice to see that competition for Ford's system is on the way.


Gallery: LA 2010: 2011 Fiat 500

2011 Fiat 5002011 Fiat 5002011 Fiat 5002011 Fiat 5002011 Fiat 500

[Source: Detroit Free Press]

Will Ford's Sync lose ground to Fiat's Blue & Me? originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 30 Nov 2010 18:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Blue Mechrysler blue and me infotainmentchrysler infotainmentconnectivityEco:Villefiat blue and meford syncmicrosoftsynctelematicstom tomTue, 30 Nov 2010 18:01:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19737318/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2010/11/30/will-fords-sync-lose-ground-to-fiats-blue-and-me/19737318/article-detail.xml 19737318 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/11/blue-and-me_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/11/blue-and-me.jpg <![CDATA[Microsoft releases Windows Embedded Automotive 7]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2010/10/20/microsoft-releases-windows-embedded-automotive-7/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/10/20/microsoft-releases-windows-embedded-automotive-7/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/10/20/microsoft-releases-windows-embedded-automotive-7/#commentsFiled under: ,

Nissan Leaf interior
2011 Nissan Leaf interior - Click above for high-res image gallery

All the fancy new technology buried deep inside the guts of today's latest crop of cars and trucks needs some serious software magic to function properly, and Microsoft is one of the leading suppliers of bits and bytes in the automotive realm. Carmakers like Fiat, Ford, Kia and Nissan are all using software sourced from the Redmond-based tech giant.

Windows Embedded Automotive 7 introduces new technologies such as Silverlight, which allows for 2D and 3D graphics improvements, and Tellme speech technology, which allows real-time text-to-speech technology and the ability to respond to text messages using spoken input.

Another interesting tidbit officially revealed by Microsoft today is that the 2011 Nissan Leaf touchscreen information hub (shown above) is, in fact, powered by Windows Embedded Automotive technology. Drivers will get a navigation system along with an electricity charging station locator, a power consumption monitor and in-car climate monitoring. Want more? Check out the full press release after the break.


Gallery: 2010 Nissan Leaf EV


[Source: Microsoft via Engadget]

Continue reading Microsoft releases Windows Embedded Automotive 7

Microsoft releases Windows Embedded Automotive 7 originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 20 Oct 2010 09:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2011 nissan leafleafMicrosoftnissannissan leafnissan leaf information hubwindowswindows automotivewindows automotive 7windows embeddedwindows embedded automotive 7Wed, 20 Oct 2010 09:01:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19680910/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2010/10/20/microsoft-releases-windows-embedded-automotive-7/19680910/article-detail.xml 19680910 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/10/nissan-leaf-interior_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/10/nissan-leaf-interior.jpg <![CDATA[Microsoft shows off Kinect-capable version of Forza Motorsport [w/video]]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2010/06/15/microsoft-shows-off-kinect-capable-version-of-forza-motorsport/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/06/15/microsoft-shows-off-kinect-capable-version-of-forza-motorsport/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/06/15/microsoft-shows-off-kinect-capable-version-of-forza-motorsport/#commentsFiled under: ,

Microsoft shows off Kinect-capable version of Forza Motorsport
Forza Motorsport with Kinect controls - Click above to watch video after the jump

The Electronics Entertainment Expo is underway in California, and Microsoft has kicked things off by unveiling its new Kinect peripheral for the xBox 360. Kinect (formerly "Project Natal") is an advanced camera that can track your body as you stand in front of your TV, enabling what Microsoft is calling controller-free gaming. The primary titles shown were silly ones involving running, jumping, and other types of tomfoolery that will appeal to the casual crowd, but there was a Forza Motorsport tie-in that might just make motorheads take notice.

If you're a Forza fan, then chances are you've spent more than a few seconds ogling the incredibly high-res versions of the cars shown in your virtual in-game garage. Now, with Kinect, it appears as if you'll be able to get a little closer. The camera can track you as you physically walk around, enabling you to "walk around" your virtual steeds. As you move, the perspective shifts. The demo car was a Ferrari 458, naturally in red, which a spokesman was able to explore, crouch to get a closer look at its carbon ceramic brakes, and even open the door with a wave of his hand and take a seat inside.

Gorgeous, but not particularly exciting. A short demo was also given of a simple gameplay mode, which you play by holding your hands in front of you as if you were holding a steering wheel to control the car. This mode looked to be a challenge to see how many cars you can pass in a limited period of time, but with seemingly no way to accelerate or brake we're guessing this will be little more than a passing distraction.

This version of Forza is said to be coming sometime in 2011, so it won't be here for the November 4 launch of Kinect. Neither was there a mention of whether this will be a free update for Forza Motorsport 3 or a whole new title. Given the limited amount of content here, we're hoping for the former. Check out the keynote during which the Kinect-enabled version of Forza was demonstrated after the jump.

[Source: Engadget]

Continue reading Microsoft shows off Kinect-capable version of Forza Motorsport [w/video]

Microsoft shows off Kinect-capable version of Forza Motorsport [w/video] originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 15 Jun 2010 13:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>e3e3 2010E32010forzaforza motorsportforza motorsport 3ForzaMotorsportForzaMotorsport3kinectmicrosoftmicrosoft kinectMicrosoftKinectproject natalProjectNatalturn 10turn 10 studiosTurn10Turn10Studiosxboxxbox 360xbox-360Xbox360Tue, 15 Jun 2010 13:01:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19516079/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2010/06/15/microsoft-shows-off-kinect-capable-version-of-forza-motorsport/19516079/article-detail.xml 19516079 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/06/e3-forza-kinect-20100614_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/06/e3-forza-kinect-20100614.jpg <![CDATA[Ford adds ability to sync Google maps directions to Sync]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2010/06/08/ford-adds-ability-to-sync-google-maps-directions-to-sync/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/06/08/ford-adds-ability-to-sync-google-maps-directions-to-sync/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/06/08/ford-adds-ability-to-sync-google-maps-directions-to-sync/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Drivers of late-model Ford vehicles equipped with Sync Traffic, Directions and Information (TDI) will soon be able to plot out their routes using Google Maps on their home computer and then download turn-by-turn directions directly to the car. TDI is a recent addition that adds a GPS receiver which allows Sync equipped cars and trucks to provide directions even if the vehicle doesn't have the full map based navigation system in place.

Unlike General Motors' OnStar system, which incorporates its own cellular equipment, the TDI functionality uses the communications capability provided by a connected mobile phone linked up by the driver. TDI reaches out to download directional data from the internet through the phone. The route will be calculated online using up-to-date traffic information.

To use the "Send to Sync" feature, Ford and Lincoln owners just need to register on syncmyride.com for the free TDI services. The ability to send Google directions to Sync TDI will be launched later this month with a similar service based on Mapquest launching later this year. Official PR verbiage available after the jump.

[Source: Ford]

Continue reading Ford adds ability to sync Google maps directions to Sync

Ford adds ability to sync Google maps directions to Sync originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 08 Jun 2010 09:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>blue ovalBlueOvalfordford send to syncford syncford sync tdiford sync traffic directions informationFordSendToSyncFordSyncFordSyncTdiFordSyncTrafficDirectionsInformationgoogle mapgoogle mapsgoogle maps send to syncGoogleMapGoogleMapsGoogleMapsSendToSynclincolnmapquestmicrosoftmicrosoft syncMicrosoftSyncsend to syncSendToSyncsyncTue, 08 Jun 2010 09:02:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19507408/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2010/06/08/ford-adds-ability-to-sync-google-maps-directions-to-sync/19507408/article-detail.xml 19507408 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/06/syncgoogle_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/06/syncgoogle.jpg <![CDATA[Microsoft adds turn-by-turn navigation to Bing mobile app]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2010/05/14/microsoft-adds-turn-by-turn-navigation-to-bing-mobile-app/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/05/14/microsoft-adds-turn-by-turn-navigation-to-bing-mobile-app/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/05/14/microsoft-adds-turn-by-turn-navigation-to-bing-mobile-app/#commentsFiled under: ,

Bing Maps App - Click above to watch video after the jump

We really haven't heard too much from Bing since Microsoft cooled the jets on its advertising assault. We had thought that the supposed Google-killer had been sentenced to the same search engine purgatory as the likes of Ask Jeeves, but it turns out the big M has been busily sharpening the teeth on its Bing app. The company has just added turn-by-turn navigation to the recipe, and from what we can tell, it looks just as capable of getting you where you're going as any of the windshield-mounted hardware out there.

Pocket Now has posted a video of the app in action. It has no problem handling voice commands and the robo voice is easy to understand. You can even tap on the screen in order to have the app repeat a portion of the directions. The best part? It's absolutely free. Hit the jump to see for yourself.

[Source: Pocket Now via Engadget]

Continue reading Microsoft adds turn-by-turn navigation to Bing mobile app

Microsoft adds turn-by-turn navigation to Bing mobile app originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 14 May 2010 18:27:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>AppBingBing AppBingAppGPSMicrosoftNavigationturn by turn directionsturn by turn navigationTurnByTurnDirectionsTurnByTurnNavigationFri, 14 May 2010 18:27:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19477908/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2010/05/14/microsoft-adds-turn-by-turn-navigation-to-bing-mobile-app/19477908/article-detail.xml 19477908 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/05/bing-app_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/05/bing-app.jpg <![CDATA[New York 2010: Ford and Microsoft announce Hohm electric vehicle charging partnership]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2010/03/31/new-york-2010-ford-announces-hohm-electric-vehicle-charging-par/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/03/31/new-york-2010-ford-announces-hohm-electric-vehicle-charging-par/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/03/31/new-york-2010-ford-announces-hohm-electric-vehicle-charging-par/#commentsFiled under: , ,



Alongside the debut of the Lincoln MKZ Hybrid at this year's New York Auto Show, Ford announced an extension of its partnership with Microsoft (see also: Sync) into the electric vehicle (EV) recharging realm. The new space that Microsoft and Ford want to take over is your garage; the method of attack is the free Hohm energy management application.

Hohm is a cloud-based system that can be used today to manage and control home energy usage. When it comes to future EVs and home charging, the system will be able to automate and optimize recharging and, most likely, communicate with a smartphone to relay information and update settings (need to turn off your dryer for some reason while you're at work, Hohm can let you do that). The MyFord Touch and Sync technologies could also be integrated into the system, allowing your car to tell you it wants to be recharged at night during off-peak hours.

Microsoft CEO Steve Ballmer appeared via satellite during Ford's press conference to promote the new direction that these two companies are going in together. Ballmer said, "electric cars are going to transform so much of our society" and that information technology will be critical in getting EVs on the road. Ford president and CEO Alan Mulally said that this partnership "makes electric vehicles viable." Ford's group vice president of global product development, Derrick Kuzak, said that Hohm will make EVs "a reality for everyone, not just a lucky few" because it manages the cost for the end user and helps utilities manage and understand the EV load.

But Kuzak also said that Hohm will help people evaluate if their home is ready for an EV, implying that not everyone will be able to use Hohm (an obvious point, but it negates his pie-in-the-sky "EVs for everyone" statement). We'll be able to draw our own conclusions once the all-electric Focus becomes the first Ford EV to use Hohm, probably some time in 2011.


Gallery: Ford Hohm


[Source: Ford]

Continue reading New York 2010: Ford and Microsoft announce Hohm electric vehicle charging partnership

New York 2010: Ford and Microsoft announce Hohm electric vehicle charging partnership originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 31 Mar 2010 14:21:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2010 new york auto show2010 ny auto show2010NewYorkAutoShow2010NyAutoShowbreakingfocus ev hohmFocusEvHohmfordford hohmford microsoftford microsoft hohmFordHohmFordMicrosoftFordMicrosoftHohmhohmhohm electric carhohm evhohm focusHohmElectricCarHohmEvHohmFocusmicrosoftmicrosoft hohmMicrosoftHohmnew york auto showNewYorkAutoShowny auto showNyAutoShowWed, 31 Mar 2010 14:21:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19421602/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2010/03/31/new-york-2010-ford-announces-hohm-electric-vehicle-charging-par/19421602/article-detail.xml 19421602 http://www.blogcdn.com/green.autoblog.com/media/2010/03/new-york-ford-hohm-630-1_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/green.autoblog.com/media/2010/03/new-york-ford-hohm-630-1.jpg <![CDATA[Video: Mulally summarizes SYNC's successes, talks about Ford's future]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2010/01/08/ford-ceo-alan-mulally-summarizes-syncs-successes-talks-the-tut/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/01/08/ford-ceo-alan-mulally-summarizes-syncs-successes-talks-the-tut/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/01/08/ford-ceo-alan-mulally-summarizes-syncs-successes-talks-the-tut/#commentsFiled under: , ,


The 2010 Consumer Electronics Show is underway, and Ford CEO and President Alan Mulally kicked it off with a lengthy keynote. A very lengthy keynote. For an hour-an-a-half, we were peppered with details about Ford's successes, its inspirations, and, of course, its plans for the future. We've already learned quite a bit about what's coming next, and even had a chance to try it, but it's good to have Mulally and his cohorts put it all into perspective for us. We sat through the entire presentation and have summarized the important bits after the break so that you don't have to. Click on through and see what's up at the Blue Oval.

Continue reading Video: Mulally summarizes SYNC's successes, talks about Ford's future

Video: Mulally summarizes SYNC's successes, talks about Ford's future originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 08 Jan 2010 16:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>alan mulallyAlanMulallyapp ecosystemAppEcosystemcesces 2010Ces2010fordford syncFordSynckeynotemicrosoftmyfordmyford touchMyfordTouchsyncFri, 08 Jan 2010 16:58:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19308139/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2010/01/08/ford-ceo-alan-mulally-summarizes-syncs-successes-talks-the-tut/19308139/article-detail.xml 19308139 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/01/alan-mulally-20100107-630_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/01/alan-mulally-20100107-630.jpg <![CDATA[Video: We take Kia and Microsoft's Uvo for a test drive at CES]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2010/01/07/video-we-take-kia-and-microsofts-uvo-for-a-test-drive-at-ces/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/01/07/video-we-take-kia-and-microsofts-uvo-for-a-test-drive-at-ces/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/01/07/video-we-take-kia-and-microsofts-uvo-for-a-test-drive-at-ces/#commentsFiled under: , ,

We Take Kia and Microsoft's UVO for a Test Drive [w/video]
Kia's UVO system hands-on - Click above to watch video after the jump

Tucked in between Google's hot new smartphone and a variety of other computer peripheral equipment at this year's CES show is a crossover. Not the jacked-up, tricked-out, neon-dragging customized type that we typically see around the Consumer Electronics Show, but a bone-stock, 2011 Kia Sorento. Well, stock except for one option: UVO.

We recently got a chance to try out the newly-announced system in the plastic, and while impressive in its own right, just hours after sitting down with Ford to check out the latest Sync and MyFord Touch, it's somewhat less than stunning. But, ignoring that for now, Kia's offering looks good and still ahead of the rest of the curve. It's functionally comparable to early Sync, enabling easy access to media on 1GB of internal storage, on a USB-connected drive or even on a CD. You can rip from CD straight to internal memory or to a thumb drive, an interesting feature we're not sure is particularly useful. The touchscreen display is a nice improvement over Ford's two-line Sync readout, but remember that if you get this system, you'll have to opt out of in-dash GPS. Good thing you splurged and got that Droid, right? Check out some screens in the gallery below, and there's a quick video demo after the break.


Gallery: Kia and Microsoft's UVO

Continue reading Video: We take Kia and Microsoft's Uvo for a test drive at CES

Video: We take Kia and Microsoft's Uvo for a test drive at CES originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 07 Jan 2010 14:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cesces 2010Ces2010Consumer Electronics ShowConsumerElectronicsShowembedded systemsEmbeddedSystemsfeaturefeaturedfeatureshands-onkiaKia UvoKiaUvomicrosoftmicrosoft embedded systemsMicrosoftEmbeddedSystemstelematicsuvoThu, 07 Jan 2010 14:58:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19306899/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2010/01/07/video-we-take-kia-and-microsofts-uvo-for-a-test-drive-at-ces/19306899/article-detail.xml 19306899 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/01/kia-press-2010107-1024-08-630_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/01/kia-press-2010107-1024-08-630.jpg <![CDATA[MyFord Touch and SYNC App Ecosystem hands-on [w/video]]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2010/01/07/myford-touch-and-sync-app-ecosystem-hands-on-and-video/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/01/07/myford-touch-and-sync-app-ecosystem-hands-on-and-video/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/01/07/myford-touch-and-sync-app-ecosystem-hands-on-and-video/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Hands on with MyFord Touch and SYNC App Ecosystem - Click above for high-res image gallery

You've read the PR, seen the press shots and probably snickered a little at the quote from Ford's Derrick Kuzak indicating that his company's latest tech "will cause people to fall in love with their vehicles again." After getting a chance to play with a few entrants into the company's so-called SYNC App Ecosystem, and getting behind the wheel of a MyFord Touch-equipped mockup vehicle, we're not laughing - but we are smiling. It's impressive tech, so follow the jump to see some videos and check our impressions.


Gallery: Ford Sync App Ecosystem and MyFord

Continue reading MyFord Touch and SYNC App Ecosystem hands-on [w/video]

MyFord Touch and SYNC App Ecosystem hands-on [w/video] originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 07 Jan 2010 12:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cesces 2010Ces2010featurefeaturedfeaturesfordford syncFordSynchands-onmicrosoftmicrosoft autoMicrosoftAutomyfordmyford touchMyfordTouchsyncThu, 07 Jan 2010 12:30:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19306491/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2010/01/07/myford-touch-and-sync-app-ecosystem-hands-on-and-video/19306491/article-detail.xml 19306491 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/01/ford-2010107-1024-09_opt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/01/ford-2010107-1024-09_opt.jpg -1 2