Microsoft Soon to Offer Windows CE-Based Infotainment System to Automakers

TBox and Windows Automotive Could Revolutionize Auto Electronics

Many new luxury cars feature large LCD screens, used for displaying everything from navigation maps and directions, plus audio,

So far, no manufacturer has dared integrate a personal computer system within its cars' centre stack layout. (Photo: Honda Canada)

climate, and trip information, among other things.

But so far, no manufacturer has dared integrate a personal computer system within its cars' centre stack layout, an upgrade that seems so obvious that it's hard to fathom why it has yet to happen. This may change soon, however.

Redmond, Washington based software giant Microsoft smells ripe opportunity, and being that it currently makes a portable operating system, Windows CE, plus is also already entrenched in developing and trying to sell navigation system software, the fit is only too ideal.

Master of "bundling", Microsoft will soon offer its navigation system with an in-car computer interface dubbed TBox, which will support a dedicated operating system called Windows Automotive. Currently version 4.2 has been introduced, and has gone out to sub-developers to build supporting software that is compatible.

According to Microsoft's Windows Automotive website, "The release of Windows Automotive version 4.2 marks the

Microsoft will soon offer its navigation system with an in-car computer interface dubbed TBox. (Photo: Microsoft Canada)

introduction of the first Microsoft .NET-connected, voice-enabled software for building next-generation in-vehicle devices. Windows Automotive 4.2, built on the Windows CE operating system, is the first Microsoft telematics software platform to include the .NET Compact Framework. This technology will enable the industry to give drivers and passengers seamless access to a wide range of Web services as well as smooth functionality among all Windows powered devices."