Microsoft takes the driver’s seat with Microsoft Auto 3.0

Posted by: Sr. Editor Lonny Paul on Sunday, May 18th, 2008

Ford Sync (Photo Credit: tootechie.com) Windows everywhere - that seems to be the message with the recent expansion of Microsoft’s new place next to the driver’s seat in your car. That’s right, while we have all seen the Sync commercials on television, there is more. The next generation is coming from Microsoft for your car - bringing a true media center type experience in your auto - plus more!

According to the tootechie.com report, “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.

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. The most recent version of Microsoft Auto 3.0 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.”

What’s next - your alarm clock? “Good morning. You’ve got mail and a critical update is required. Please restart your device.”

Source: Microsoft: From Personal Computers to Personal Cars | tootechie.com via Digg.com.

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