Microsoft Corp. and Hyundai-Kia Automotive Group (HKAG) will co-develop next-generation in-car infotainment systems. With this joint initiative, Microsoft and HKAG will deliver solutions based on the Microsoft Auto software platform.
"These new systems will redefine consumer experiences in the car," said Martin Thall, general manager of Microsoft's automotive business unit. "Since the spring of 2006, HKAG and Microsoft have been sharing their vision for the future of in-car technology. We're now aligned to develop the next generation of in-car infotainment systems."
The first product of the joint project will be a next-generation infotainment system that provides voice-controlled connectivity between mobile devices, will be introduced in the North American market in 2010. It will further apply to Asia and Europe, and expand into multimedia and navigation devices. The infotainment systems will support music in various digital formats.
The next-generation infotainment systems are comparable to mini-PCs. Even after product launch, new functions can be added or upgraded in the form of software program updates, an innovation to existing in-car multimedia technology.