Microsoft Automotive shifts up a gear

Live Search for Devices enables partners to develop applications for in-vehicle 'infotainment'

Microsoft has announced plans to extend its automotive software offering to include services, spearheaded by a move to introduce Live Search for Devices.

Microsoft's Automotive Business Unit said that Live Search for Devices enables partners to develop applications, including local search services, for in-vehicle 'infotainment'.

The service is available for implementation in Microsoft's automotive platforms, Windows Automotive and future releases of Microsoft Auto.

One of the fastest growing businesses at Microsoft, Microsoft Auto and Windows Automotive claim to help partners reduce turn around time, control costs and provide flexible platforms for in-vehicle information and entertainment systems.

Microsoft already provides the software that powers Ford Sync in North America, Fiat Auto Group's Blue&Me in Europe and South America, and navigation solutions developed by Japanese manufacturers.

The automotive unit is also developing a platform targeted for release in 2009 that enhances Microsoft's current in-vehicle products into an integrated automotive solution.