Windows CE Hits the Road [Archive] - Thoughts Media Forums

Robert Levy

01-11-2004, 11:17 PM

<div class='os_post_top_link'><a href='http://www.microsoft.com/presspass/press/2004/Jan04/01-08VCCES04PR.asp' target='_blank'>http://www.microsoft.com/presspass/press/2004/Jan04/01-08VCCES04PR.asp</a> </div>I'm pretty impressed just to have Windows CE running my cell phone. Last week we I posted about people putting it on their Xbox. And now Microsoft is showing off a prototype car which uses Windows CE and the latest technology to deliver a truly high-tech driving experience. There are some really killer features being demonstrated which give you an idea of what can be done when several distinct technologies are brought together. Below is the press release from this announcement at CES. The big question now is: where can I sign up to beta test? :wink: Microsoft Corp. today announced its first Connected Concept Cars — using a Hummer H2, Cadillac CTS and BMW X5 — at the 2004 International Consumer Electronics Show (CES). The company's concept vehicles demonstrate how Microsoft is bringing the Connected Car to life with the latest applications, services and technologies available for drivers and passengers. The technology in Microsoft's Connected Concept Cars races past today's limited and often unsafe means for accessing information in the car such as traditional maps, cell phones and personal digital assistants (PDAs), and "guesstimates" on maintenance concerns such as oil level or engine status. The vehicles the company unveiled today focus on providing drivers with useful information that makes getting from place to place easier than ever. Microsoft's Connected Concept Cars, powered by Windows® Automotive technology, provide these features: Advanced speech technology. Drivers can stay focused on the road ahead by using Microsoft's powerful speech technology to get personalized traffic updates, place a phone call, ask for driving directions or even play digital music. PDA and cell phone integration. Bluetooth® technology wirelessly connects a driver's Bluetooth enabled cell phone and PDA to the vehicle's electronics system, allowing drivers to speak to make and receive calls, receive meeting reminders and access important data through the car audio system. Web services. Drivers can avoid traffic jams, get the latest headlines or find the closest gas station with the lowest prices via MSN® Autos using personalized, voice-controlled Internet access. Customized navigation. Taking a wrong turn is a thing of the past with the Connected Car's voice-controlled navigation system. Drivers can find points of interest or get turn-by-turn directions with the help of Global Positioning System (GPS) and MapPoint® technology. Hands-free phone. Drivers will never again take their eyes off the road to make a call. They can enjoy a hands-free phone conversation while behind the wheel without the distraction of manually dialing a number. Remote diagnostics. Drivers are alerted of potential car problems and maintenance updates, potentially improving their car's performance over its lifetime. "The power, flexibility and reliability of our Windows Automotive platform makes it possible for automakers to provide these types of driving experiences to consumers today," Brass said. "These Connected Concept Cars prove that drivers and passengers can safely and securely communicate, get timely information and be entertained at their convenience while on the road." As consumers grow accustomed to the digital lifestyle, they struggle with staying connected when they are behind the wheel. Research shows that drivers are increasingly using their cell phone and PDA in the car, indicating they have a strong desire to stay connected to the world around them. Recent studies estimate that Americans spend more than 500 million commuter hours per week in their vehicle* and that 73 percent of cell phone users talk on their phones while driving.** With its Connected Car technology, Microsoft is shifting its automotive efforts into high gear and delivering a safer alternative to accessing information while on the road. "Our goal is to help consumers get safely connected to the information and services they need on the road by helping the auto industry meet this demand with reliable, affordable, standards-based technology solutions," Brass said. Microsoft Momentum Hits the Road in 2004 Model Year Vehicles The company currently is working with automakers worldwide to put its Connected Car technology into production. It recently added several new car models to its growing customer base using Windows Automotive technology. Drivers and passengers can now experience Microsoft® technology in 23 preinstalled and aftermarket devices from 12 world-class automakers and suppliers including BMW, Citroën, Clarion Co. Ltd., DaimlerChrysler, Fiat, Subaru, Honda, Hyundai, Mitsubishi, NexTech, Toyota and Volvo.