Microsoft, Hyundai and Kia Motors join to develop in-car infotainment system

Hyundai-Kia automotive group and Microsoft Corporation are going to work jointly on developing the next generation in-car infotainment systems. The two companies will develop new products that will work on the software platform of Microsoft. These systems will be available in all the automobiles of Hyundai and Kia. The intelligencer reports:

Comparable to mini-PCs, the next-generation infotainment system provides voice-controlled connectivity between mobile devices and will expand into multimedia and navigation devices particularly suited to Asian and European markets; it will be introduced in North America in 2010.

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.

"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."

In his recent visit to South Korea, Microsoft Chairman, Bill Gates, met with the officials from Hyundai and Kia motors. The three companies decided to develop various in-car software products. They even decided to set up an automobile innovation center.

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