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

"Currently, we have created an operating system platform that enables in-vehicle computing devices to respond to verbal commands

When it does become available, Microsoft will enter a market that is expected to grow to $6 billion USD by 2010. (Photo: Honda Canada)

and that can ultimately serve as the software platform of the future for mobile communication networks and e-commerce," adds Microsoft's Windows Automotive website. "And now, the Connected Car Initiative is creating the next generation of software that will revolutionize the melding of computing and communications with the car. This vision offers the automotive industry and its developer community the ability to harness technology on their terms and with the tools they need to create truly distributed wireless services delivering the power of the Internet into the automobile in a safe and secure manner."

While Windows Automotive 4.2 is only available on a limited basis, most believe future versions will become an essential OEM upgrade in years to come; just when is not known, but don't expect the software giant to sit on it too long. When it does become available, Microsoft will enter a market that is expected to grow to $6 billion USD by 2010. Dick Brass, vice-president of Microsoft's automotive business unit, is quoted as saying that Microsoft considers the automotive market, with 50 million cars produced every year, to be comparable to the desktop computer market.

And the automakers, looking to reduce the high costs of developing proprietary software systems for running in-car applications, are not only sitting up and taking notice, but are getting involved. According to the Microsoft Automotive section of the software giant's

"Microsoft is currently working with automakers and suppliers worldwide to put its Connected Car technology into production." (Photo: Rob Rothwell, Canadian Auto Press)

website, "Microsoft is currently working with automakers and suppliers 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 25 preinstalled and aftermarket devices from 13 world-class automakers and suppliers including Acura, BMW, Citroën, Clarion Co. Ltd., DaimlerChrysler, Fiat, Subaru, Honda, Hyundai, Mitsubishi, NexTech, Toyota and Volvo."