Question: Have you been impressed with new car electronics? Have systems such as the new generation Sync and the MyFord Touch wowed you? Well, be prepared to be wowed even more. Microsoft, the company that provides the software for the latest car electronics, has unveiled the Windows Embedded Automotive 7 software which will run the newest car electronics to come.
In fact, the software is already working infotainment systems in vehicles from Ford, Kia, Fiat and Nissan as well as big truck manufacturer Paccar. Alpine Electronics is also using it on infotainment products it is offering as an OEM supplier. The software is designed to make infotainment systems easier to use with better voice command capability and better touch input; hands-free Bluetooth phone communications and better access to music, navigation, apps; and the ability to connect other devices to the car's system.
Ford is using the new software to enhance its next generation Sync and MyFord Touch systems. Nissan will be using it on the 2011 Leaf to work its touchscreen information center and to provide navigation and information on the location of electric charging stations, to show how much energy is being consumed by the vehicle and to monitor climate control. The new Fiat 500 will use it to run its Blue&Me technology which integrates smartphones and portable music players into the car and allow for voice command of these devices. The Fiat 500 will start to appear in Chrysler dealers showrooms in the U.S. in December.
More information on the software as well as a demonstration of how it works can be found at the Microsoft website.
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