Windows auto tech shifts into top gear

Microsoft's Windows Embedded Auto software has already been adopted by Fiat (as Blue&Me), Ford (Sync and Ford Work Solutions), and now Kia Motors America (Uvo). Continental AG's adoption of the platform, however, suggests that Windows tech will readily be available even to automakers who have not cut their own deals with Microsoft.

Continental's MMP

Continental says its MMP will include standard hardware and software components, which automakers can selectively adopt to create systems for any type of car, from economy to luxury models. For instance, an entry-level version of the MMP is expected to provide the following functionality:

A radio
hands-free calling utilizing Bluetooth wireless technology
access to online services like Internet radio
the ability to easily connect and play personal music collections via either portable devices, USB or SD cards brought into the vehicle

An advanced version known as MMP High, meanwhile, will include all the above features while adding a navigation system. It's said the GPS receiver will utilize Microsoft's Bing search engine, providing drivers and passengers with point of interest (POI) information including: businesses and attractions, ATMs, gas stations, restaurants, hospitals and more. In addition, the system will receive real-time traffic information via Navteq, recalculating routes in the event of an accident or detour, adds Continental.

Continental's MMP architecture

According to Continental, the MMP will run Windows Embedded Auto using system-on-chip architecture (this could be a reference to Freescale's i.MX31, part of the Microsoft Auto reference platform). The MMP High version, meanwhile, will include "additional calculation power and a high-end graphics accelerator." Overall MMP architecture is separated into automotive and consumer electronics domains, as pictured above, the company adds.

Kieran O'Sullivan, executive vice president of Continental's infotainment and connectivity business, stated, "A main area of focus ... [for us] is to work with our customers to bring advanced consumer electronic features to all vehicle segments, including small and more affordable cars. Continental's MMP is an ideal solution because it has been designed to provide automakers with a range of flexibility, so they can quickly and easily integrate a variety of features into their vehicle fleet."

Background

"Windows Embedded Auto" is merely the latest name for Microsoft's Windows CE-based automotive technology. Microsoft's Windows CE for Automotive was first released in 1998, since when it has evolved into a variety of product offerings. For example, in 2003 it was called Windows Automotive (2003), and by 2006 it was known as Windows Mobile for Automotive.

Unlike with many Microsoft products, however, naming is secondary, since the core technology is designed to be adapted by automaker customers and offered under their own brands. The Windows CE-based software made its debut in Europe and South America on Fiat vehicles, where it is known as Blue&Me. It was then released in the U.S. by Ford as Sync, on passenger cars. Kia, meanwhile, announced yesterday that it will adopt the technology this summer as Uvo.

The addition of Microsoft technology has apparently helped drive auto sales, even in a difficult market. Ford, which first introduced Sync two years ago, said as of last March that the technology is now installed in more than one million vehicles. In January, the automaker said it would expand its system to include the following new elements:

A GPS receiver, cellular modem, maps, and POI (points of interest) from Telenav
"Data-over-voice" technology from Seattle-based Airbiquity that will apparently allow the system to work in voice-only service areas
"Off board" voice recognition, enabled by relaying a user's voice to a portal operated by Microsoft's Tellme subsidiary

In March, meanwhile, Microsoft announced Microsoft Auto 4.0, which it said would be made available in the spring to automakers. The new version added a standard interface for broadcast radio tuners, CD playback and ripping support, and support for x86 processors such as the Intel Atom Z530, Z510P, Z530PT, and Z510PT. (These CPUs include integrated heat spreaders, work at up to 185 deg. F, and appear to be Intel's bid to compete with ARM in the automotive world.)

According to Microsoft, the latest release of its software is now Microsoft Auto 4.1, which is based on Windows CE 6.0 R3. Version 4.1 includes the following enhancements, according to the company:

Bluetooth 2.1 + EDR
Secure Simple Pairing support
Calendar download from mobile phone
Technology preview of upcoming support for DLNA media device integration
Multi-application access to media index
iPhone/iPod Touch firmware 3.x support
Message Access Profile (MAP) 1.0

OUR VERDICT:
When it comes to automotive infotainment, Microsoft is now streets ahead

In an announcement last month that apparently explains the "Windows Embedded Auto" moniker, Microsoft said it has "realigned its automotive business within Windows Embedded to capitalize on the synergies between the two business units and leverage the extended, global partner ecosystem of Windows Embedded." The company also said another generation of Microsoft Auto, currently code-named "Motegi," would be announced during 2010.

Further information
Continental did not cite pricing or availability for its MMP, but said hands-on demonstrations are being provided this week at CES Booth 7853. Further information on the platform may be found on the company's website, here.

More information on Microsoft's Auto 4.1 software may be found on the company's website, here.

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Jonathan Angel | Date: Jan 6, 2010 | Comments: 1

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