Windows for in-car computing unveiled

Microsoft has unveiled its latest software for in-car devices which it said will enable manufacturers to build next-generation, in-car computing systems.

The Windows CE for Automotive v.3 software and its development tools are designed to power the growing number of in-car computers that manufacturers are including in new-generation vehicles.

The operating system is a component of the Microsoft Car.Net Framework, which will offer improved and more diverse computing in motor vehicles.

Bob McKenzie, general manager of the Automotive Business Unit at Microsoft, said: "Safety and security services are among the most important criteria to motorists. They want access to internet-based information such as news, traffic updates, instant messaging, navigation assistance and other services."

He said the new version could be used to control a variety of devices including a push button cellular service system such as General Motors' OnStar. According to the car manufacturer, OnStar is available in 32 of its 54 models for the year 2001. The service will also be offered on 2001 Lexus and 2002 Acura models.

Windows CE for Automotive has strong backing in the industry, according to Microsoft. Bosch in Germany and Denso in Japan have announced plans to build and ship in-vehicle devices based on the software, and other industry suppliers, including Aisin AW, Clarion, Xanavi Informatics and Mitsui, have said they will develop systems and applications based on the platform.

The new operating system will have built-in repair functions to prevent problems before they can occur, and will also allow wireless access, along with full HTML browser software with XML parsing support.

It is unlikely that such technologies will be in car-dealer showrooms until late 2001 or early 2002.