DETROIT, Oct. 21, 2002 — Microsoft Corp. today announced from Convergence 2002 that it will change the name of its leading in-vehicle software platform to
“Windows® Automotive”
from
“Windows CE for Automotive.” This name change will mark the introduction of the first Microsoft®
.NET-connected, voice-enabled software for building next-generation in-vehicle devices.
“The first automotive breakthroughs were mechanical and electric, then electronic,”
said Dick Brass, vice president of technology development and charged with the oversight of automotive efforts at Microsoft.
“The next great wave of vehicular improvement will be fueled by software. We stand at the dawn of the software vehicle.”
Available to automakers, suppliers and developers in the first half of next year, Windows Automotive, built on the Windows CE operating system, is the first Microsoft telematics software platform designed exclusively for the automotive market 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. The platform will have native support for voice-enabled Bluetooth™
technology, a short-range wireless technology that enables devices to interconnect without cables or wires. It is a low-cost, low-power-consumption, highly flexible technology expected to become a global standard in the wireless handset industry.
Moving Telematics Ahead
Recognizing the growing trend of cell phone and other mobile device use in vehicles, Microsoft, through its Windows Automotive technology, will enable drivers and passengers to access the same software and Web services they already enjoy in their homes and offices. This will bring the company one step closer to making its Connected Car vision a reality.
“As the telematics industry evolves, Microsoft is uniquely positioned to add value for both automakers and consumers,”
Brass said.
“Microsoft has the assets required to deliver the telematics technology infrastructure, products and services that will enable the automotive industry to focus on product differentiation, customer intimacy and new revenue streams, and most important, create a telematics solution that drivers and passengers will demand in their cars.”
Since Windows CE for Automotive was first introduced in 1998, telematics has evolved from one-way communication systems to interactive, voice-enabled systems capable of delivering applications and services that range from hands-free cell phone use to music downloads and real-time traffic updates. For automakers and suppliers, creating successful telematics solutions requires not only knowing the needs of todays drivers and passengers, but also having a flexible, reliable software platform that delivers the best technical tools for in-vehicle devices.
About Windows Automotive
Microsoft has been working with the automotive industry since 1995 to provide great software that delivers information, entertainment, communication and services in vehicles. The company works very closely with automakers, suppliers, aftermarket manufacturers, service providers and consumers to provide the embedded automotive industry with the systems and tools for building the next generation of intelligent, Windows Powered devices that demand rich applications and access to Internet services for a wide range of flexible solutions. Windows Automotive is an open platform that allows developers to quickly create powerful in-car computing solutions. It offers flexibility, with a choice of computing platforms, hardware peripherals and software components, as well as a large community of experienced developers for Windows CE.
About Microsoft
Founded in 1975, Microsoft (Nasdaq
“MSFT”
) is the worldwide leader in software, services and Internet technologies for personal and business computing. The company offers a wide range of products and services designed to empower people through great software — any time, any place and on any device.
Microsoft and Windows are either registered trademarks or trademarks of Microsoft Corp. in the United States and/or other countries.
Bluetooth is a trademark owned by Bluetooth SIG and used by Microsoft under license.
The names of actual companies and products mentioned herein may be the trademarks of their respective owners.
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